A Bright Space

How to Design a Hallway in 5 Easy Steps

2024-11-12T13:39:00.011+00:00

The entrance hall to any home creates the first impression for anyone arriving, be it the daily postie, delivery person invited or unexpected guest! Additionally the hallway sets the style and tone for the rest of the home.

Bright Space Design's interior design courses have taught students for years, including many who have moved on to set up their own successful interior design businesses. Here are some tips and inspiration for creating the perfect hallway in five easy steps.

Entrance halls come in many shapes and sizes but the basic principles of interior design are the same whether you have a tiny square, open plan or long corridor to work with.

1. Start with a focal point
Think about how you will lead the eye immediately upon entering the space. It may only be a small area, but there is always a wall involved! Add a console table or other small item of practical furniture with a mirror or art above it, use the obvious wall to just add art. Be bold with its size and make it stand out. Note that mirrors should not be placed opposite the front door as this is contradicted in feng shui and bounces the energy (chi) right out of the door before it gets the chance to flow through the home.

2. Consider the lighting and use it as a crucial layer to the hallway's interior design. A stunning light fixture can be a focal point if the wall arrangement isn't working for the design. But in any case, lighting is a vital component to create a welcoming atmosphere.

3. Add functional accessories like textured baskets for shoe or boot storage and attractive containers for keys or receipts. Choose items which look beautiful as well as being practical.

4. Ground the space with a rug or runner which will define the space and create warmth as well as being practical. A runner which ties in with the colour scheme but adds pattern and texture can look great, but if that doesn't fit then a small mat can also do the trick.

5. Finally add art and accessories wherever you can to finish off the look. This may be a stylish arrangement on a console, a plant, flowers, or a small keepsake on a radiator cover, but it will add interest and texture to your design.

by Sarah Antoniou

Bright Space Design

Settle in...

2024-01-15T11:28:00.000+00:00

Settle in and browse our library of articles here which include the A-Z of Interior Design, art, inspiration and tips. For more regular updates see our Instagram page or visit us at Houzz.

Design Trends 2023 | The beauty of wood

2023-03-02T16:03:00.004+00:00

Wood elements have become a perennial favourite with designers in interiors in recent years and this is a trend that will not disappear. Wood has a timeless, modern and warm influence, whether it’s used for furniture, structural elements or accessories. Layer wood and combine with fabrics and patterns for a stylish, homely look.

Design board details:

Wood & Rattan Storage Cabinet, £338, www.limelace.co.uk

Wren Fringe Cushion - Moss, £149, www.limelace.co.uk

Hand Painted Ceramic Vase , £48, idyllhome.co.uk

Aged Terracotta Plant Pot , £7.95, idyllhome.co.uk

200-190 Bench - Beige Boucle, £830, www.limelace.co.uk

Hampton Matelasse Cotton Blanket or Throw - Green, £90, www.thefinecottoncompany.com

Rowena indoor outdoor rug, terracotta, £149, housecosy.com

Noble Oak Cushion - Autumn, £120, www.limelace.co.uk

Charley Chau Oval Greywash Rattan Dog Basket & Reversible Mattress Set, £170, www.charleychau.com

Seagrass 3 Piece Basket Set, £39.99, wayfair.co.uk

Cozy Living Fable Embroidered Cushion in Olive, £74.95, www.cuckooland.com

Our 10 Best Green Christmas Gift Edits Under £40!

2022-11-25T16:13:00.003+00:00

Searching for that ideal gift on a budget? Our planet-friendly edit of gifts under £40 gives you the perfect presents and home accessories to make Christmas dreams come true for all ages!

Save our Home Monkey T-shirt from £19.99, by Leaf Living UK who promise to plant a tree with every order placed! Share your love of our planet by wearing or gifting this beautiful t-shirt suitable for him or for her.

You can’t go wrong with this best-selling soft cotton tee which will delight anyone who receives it as a gift this Christmas. Featuring a beautiful, haunting design of a monkey’s face and asking us to save their home. Comes in five lovely colours. This gorgeous T-shirt is a must-have!
Save our Home Monkey T-shirt by Leaf Living UK

Teenager wearing the Save our Home Monkey T-shirt in white

Make Your Own Flower Paper Kit, £15, by Kikkerland, available at Urban Outfitters
The happy receiver can get crafting with this super-cute kit which is perfect for making your very own pretty paper! This eco-friendly kit provides all the tools to create quality paper out of all-natural ingredients and gorgeous, colourful flowers.
Make Your Own Flower Paper Kit available at Urban Outfitters

Contents of the Make Your Own Flower Paper Kit

What would David do? T-shirt with Tree Design from £19.99, by Leaf Living UK
Pay homage to David Attenborough and his amazing love of our planet and trees. We love this adorable tree design top and the fact that a tree will be planted for all online purchases. Showing care for the environment, this soft, cotton T-shirt is perfect for your earth-loving friends or family as a wonderful gift. Comes in seven colours and many sizes and is suitable for him or for her.
What would David do? T-shirt with Tree Design by Leaf Living UK

The Christmas Express Game, £22.99 from Amazon
Spend some quality family time this Christmas with this easy to play game suitable for everyone aged six and over. Be the first player or team to reach the North Pole whilst avoiding the Hustle Bustle, the Reindeer Crossings, the Snow Storms and maybe the naughty elf, but keep an eye out for Santa's sleigh as he could help you on your way. The kit contains a large colourful playing board, 8 player tokens, 4 stands, 51 numbered cards, 14 speciality cards and a full set of rules which make it easy to climb aboard the Christmas Express for a jolly journey through a winter wonderland.

The Christmas Express family board game

Painting By Numbers Kit - The Starry Night, Vincent Van Gogh, from £29.99 by Leaf Living UK
The pandemic brought a massive surge in the popularity of painting and these painting by numbers kits are fantastic for all ages over three years old. Young or old, artists can create their own masterpiece acrylic on canvas. Suitable for absolute beginners to advanced artists who want to have some relaxing artistic fun.
See also other designs available at Leaf Living including Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Irises and Almond Blossoms. The kits come with everything you need to start painting instantly. They make fantastic, original and exciting gifts.

Lots of amazing painting by numbers kits available at Leaf Living UK

Green Garden Planting Set by Dantoy, £30 from Smallable
This gardening kit is perfect for budding horticulturists! Its solid and durable design lets children discover the world of gardening and will keep them entertained for hours. Encourages creativity and imagination. A bonus is that it is also dishwasher safe so parents can be assured it is easy to clean and will stay looking good. This kit contains 11 pieces: 1 watering can, 1 shovel, 1 rake, 2 gardening pots, 3 carrots, 2 signs, and 1 sheet of stickers.

Danish company Dantoy have been creating high quality and environmentally friendly children’s toys for over 50 years. They are among the first toy companies to be globally certified for ISO 14001 and 9001. Their toys are directly inspired by the environment and the material is it made of. One of their ranges is Green Garden and encourages children from about two years old to explore and learn about the everyday life of grown-ups while they develop different skills, including coordination of motor skills and fine finger dexterity. The products come in lovely soft colours and are made with sustainable, recyclable materials such as 90% sugar cane, bio plastics and even recycled marine waste. Sugar cane is grown in controlled, pesticide-free plantations in central and southern Brazil. Bioplastic, made from sugar cane, is a 100% sustainable and 100% recyclable raw material. Packaging is made from recycled cardboard.

Green Garden Planting Set by Dantoy

Contents of Green Garden Planting Set

Nordic Hop Scotch Cotton Linen Play Mat/Rug by Leaf Living UK, £39.99

Different designs and sizes available including Racing Car Track, City Play, Roads and World Map.
Why not stimulate your baby or child's playtime with one of these gorgeous cotton linen machine washable play rugs. They look adorable in a child’s room or playroom and are so reasonably priced that you can buy two and swap them around for variety of play and visual stimulation.

Spark your child's imagination. Play hop scotch, travel around a city, see the world, or drive around. Their neutral colours will go in any interior design. A fabulous present for young children and babies!

Lovely Hop Scotch play rug. See also other play designs including cities, roads and the world!

Mini Ikebana Kit by Ohh Deer, £19.95
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. This super little kit contains all that is needed (except the fresh flowers) to create a perfectly zen space with a unique Japanese floral display. The box includes a ceramic vase, flower frog, mini scissors and cotton towel and full instructions. There are also some good YouTube videos showing how it's done. Perfect for a little Christmas creativity and ultimately provides a little display to show off over the holidays.

The Japanese art of flower arrangement - Ikebana in a box

Bioplastic Hammer Toy by Dantoy and available at Smallable, £30

For babies from about 10 months old this classic hammering toy helps to develop different skills: hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills and sensory exploration. Made in Denmark. Dishwasher safe so easy to keep clean and looking lovely and fresh. Babies love bashing these toys and it's wonderful to watch their little faces beam as they achieve their goal.

Babies' bashing toy is always great fun for them!

Babies eco-friendly hammer toy in lovely colours

Funny Cat Characters T-shirt in lovely ice cream colours, by Leaf Living UK, from £19.99
Finally, we’ve added some purrrfect fun to our list with this cotton T-shirt featuring ten feline personalities - a perfect gift for cat lovers. The design invites you to have some fun and see which cat fits your personality the most, or to ask family and friends which character they most associate with. Guaranteed to spark some lively Christmas and New Year conversations!

Funny Cat Characters T-shirt in lovely ice cream colours or white, by Leaf Living UK

Design Tips: 5 Easy Steps to Styling Your Christmas Tree

2022-11-17T18:40:00.004+00:00

Feeling overwhelmed at where to start decorating your Christmas tree? Looking at the ones you see on Instagram, in department stores or magazines can make their perfectly magical look feel unachievable. Styling experts at Bright Space Design have made it simple for you to make your tree look perfect in five simple steps!

Once you have your tree, be it real or faux, be assured that designing your Christmas tree follows the same design rules as the rest of your home; lighting, form and scale, colour, texture and layers. Go as large as you dare, set your tree up, fluff it up to achieve its best shape, and away we go…

Styling Tip 1 | Set up the fairy lights and distribute them evenly around the tree. Check that they work before you unravel them! If your tree is against a wall or in a corner, don’t worry too much about the back of the tree which won’t show, concentrate on an even spread around and slightly inside the visible parts which will give some depth.

Styling Tip 2 | Add a “skirt” to your tree to hide the awkward tree stump, bucket or tree stand as this will make your tree’s shape look elegant and balanced by adding weight at the bottom, and of course creates a much tidier look! Whether you go for a fabric or rattan basket weave is up to you, and you can employ the same rules for colour explained in the following tip. After Christmas, when all those presents have been unwrapped and left their home at the base of the Christmas tree you’ll be glad it still looks gorgeous under there.

7.5 ft Symons Nordmann Fir Christmas Tree by The White Company

Styling Tip 3 | Choose your colour palette and decide whether you want to go multi-coloured or stick to one or two hues together with more neutral colours. If you are going for a monochrome theme then make sure you have plenty of textural interest and use different sized baubles and accessories, even ribbons, or paper decorations, to create lots of visual stimulation. If you are going for multiple colours then texture and form do still matter along with your colours.

Start with your baubles, which could be along a gold colour theme for instance, or pick two colours which are either next to each other or opposite each other on the colour wheel for a bright pop. If you are using all one-colour baubles, such as green, then a variety of these with different shades of green and various textures will add to the appeal. Green is very popular this year and it can look amazing with natural elements including cinnamon bundles, fir cones or little dried oranges. The key is to create many layers and textures.

Styling Tip 4 | Don’t feel that you have to use all of the Christmas ornaments that you own every year. Edit what you use to suit your mood and alternating what you display will make it feel fresh and exciting every time.

Styling Tip 5 | When decorating your tree try to use larger baubles or heavier items at the lower end of the tree and lighter, smaller ones nearer the top. Remember to balance it out all around, step back and see how it looks overall from time to time. Top your tree with a star, fairy or a child’s creation, sit back, relax and enjoy the view!

Why buying a property in the UK is a bad idea right now

2022-10-20T07:00:00.002+00:00

Are you desperately trying to get on the UK property ladder? Here are 5 reasons why it's a bad idea right now.

@brightspacedesign

Experts have warned that the house price boom is set to reach rock bottom out by the end of 2023, so buying a property now will only mean you are buying at inflated prices. Experts are encouraging first time buyers to wait until 2024 when prices will become lower and more reasonable.

Currently, the average price of a property coming to the market stands at £371,158 – a new record fuelled by the widespread economic and political uncertainty plaguing millions of aspiring home owners across the country.

Mortgages are also a minefield with the average two-year fixed mortgage rate touching 6.46%, and the average five-year fixed mortgage now at 6.32%. Unsurprisingly first-time buyer demand was 21% lower at the time of writing, compared to 2021 – highlighting the many barriers that aspiring buyers are facing in the journey to purchasing their own home.

Renting is no safer ground as the rental market is in chaos with 26% of landlords looking to sell their buy-to-let property due to soaring costs. This is creating a severe shortage of available rental properties with rental prices set to become even more expensive due to the sharp landlord sell-off. Most aspiring first-time buyers will have had their plans dashed by the continuous interest rate hikes and face a difficult situation.

Due to recent government policy changes on buy-to-let properties, alongside the surging energy and mortgage costs, landlords struggling with the increased maintenance costs are subsequently looking to capitalise on the current state of the market and exit while they can. In the capital, 55% of landlords who signed a new contract with tenants so far this year did so at a higher price, up from 30% in 2021.

Recent reports show that more people are currently looking to exit the market than enter. The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) predicts that over the course of next year, house prices across the UK will fall by 8-10%, with expectations that the market could fully level out by 2024.

The CEBR also predicted that mortgage rates could also calm down by then, making it a more opportune time for first-time buyers to capitalise on the market – sparking hope that properties could become more affordable in the next few years.

Simon Bath, CEO of iPlace Global, gives his advice: “My suggestion for all prospective buyers who are currently renting is that they calculate how much they are due to spend on rent in the interim, and judge how long they can realistically afford to save in anticipation of prices declining".

Five Top Tips for Reviving and Refreshing Your Home

2022-04-29T23:30:00.004+00:00

It goes without saying that the last couple of years have been challenging for everyone, with the pandemic making most people sick of being cooped up at home. However, as we settle well into 2022 and pandemic restrictions are mostly lifted, a few changes around the home can significantly improve our physical and mental health and make our homes feel like new again. Lisa Walker has some timely tips.

Breathe Clean Air!
If you haven't already had the heating and air conditioning systems in your home reviewed, now is a great time to do so. Dust and pollen can stagnate during the winter months, and an old air filter can lead to respiratory problems. A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system specialist can clean your system and replace filters to make sure you breathe easy again.

Check if it is time for a replacement. Upgrading an older system is also a great way to increase energy efficiency and save yourself some money on your monthly bills.

And don’t forget the simple act of opening windows to bring new life and energy into your home every day. Remember that the air inside our homes is more polluted than the air outside and opening windows daily is essential. For allergy sufferers it is generally better to open windows in the mornings and close them later in the afternoon to stop the pollen settling indoors.

Update Your Bedroom and Improve Sleep Quality
There's nothing quite like climbing into a comfortable bed at the end of a long day to help you relax and unwind. Unfortunately, stress, light and noise can cause many problems for sleep quality, forcing you to toss and turn all night. A few changes in your bedroom can make all the difference.

Many soft and supportive options are available to ensure you sleep as comfortably as possible. It may be time for a replacement if you have a mattress older than seven years. You might also consider new bedding. New sheets, bed covers and comforters can make your bedroom look and feel fresh again while ensuring you stay warm and happy throughout the night. Lastly, don’t forget about the light. At this time of year longer days and bright mornings can disturb sleep so make sure you have effective blackout blinds or curtains on your windows to help you sleep soundly.

Remodel Your Garden
Spring and the onset of summer is the perfect time to think about your outdoor living area, if you’re lucky enough to have one to enjoy. A well-cared for and maintained garden can keep the kids entertained during the day while hosting parties and barbecues at night, or by providing a place to relax with nature.

You can make these changes yourself, but you might want to consider a lawn service to help maintain plush grass for the kids to roll around on. A landscape company that offers fertilisation can boost the health of your grass. Before deciding on a service, read reviews, and look for quotes within your budget.

Create zones with seating areas for relaxation. Think of your outdoor space as another room or extension to your home.

Add a Home Gym
Starting a regular workout routine can be challenging, but with the right equipment in your home, you'll be counting push-ups and sit-ups in no time. You can attempt this update on your own if you have an area you can convert simply, such as a spare room. If you have a basement or outbuilding to convert, consult with a contractor about the costs and discuss what is involved. Don’t skip the wall, roof or subfloor insulation. Whatever space you do select for your workout area, make sure that it’s safe, clean, and decluttered. The aim is to create a space which welcomes and draws you in to help keep you motivated.

Consider a Change of Scenery
With the effects of the pandemic hopefully winding down, perhaps you’re considering something a bit more drastic. Now could be the perfect time for a move, and that might be just the change of scenery you’re looking for after being stuck at home in the same place for years. Remember to plan out your budget beforehand, though, so that you know just what kind of place you can afford to move to. If you are buying, don’t forget to take into account the hidden costs such as stamp duty, estate agency fees, legal fees, moving costs etc. Additionally, there will often be the cost of making your new home beautiful and perfect for you. Consulting an interior designer early is key so that costly mistakes can be avoided.

Decide whether you want to move or improve? If you decide to stay put then making some changes and improving your home may be top of your list of priorities. A skilled interior designer can help to update your home and make it feel like new again, and you will probably find this option more cost effective than moving.

Image credits: Pixel, McGee & Co, Bright Space Design, Pottery Barn

My Head is a Jungle in Greenwich

2021-09-07T14:16:00.004+00:00

by Eleanor Antoniou

My Head is a Jungle is a wild and beautiful, ethereal journey through an immersive maze-like structure, with intimate rooms abundant with plants and flora, framing illustrator Manjit Thapp’s detailed works of tapestries, murals, mirrors, and digital prints. Stepping through the first doorway visitors are led into the mind of the artist herself and invited to lose themselves amongst the jungle's tropical colours and pathways.

Symbols and motifs recur throughout the space, weaving together the artist’s feelings and thoughts, whilst also taking the visitor on an emotive journey through the wilderness of the mind: tigers, snakes, exotic flowers, a young woman, and finally, the red sun, hovering above the entire structure.

The red sun becomes a meaningful symbol of female empowerment and strength which refuses to die out. The motif reappears throughout the collection, including as a mirror, in which viewers are invited to look introspectively at themselves, surrounded by the wild growth and tangled feelings which weave throughout the space.

Thapp’s art undeniably inspires emotion and reflection. Her works create an atmosphere which is intimate, peaceful, and empowering, willing us to explore our own deepest thoughts as we escape into the green maze, in which the real world is visible only in narrow glimpses.

After emerging from the space, visitors can write their own feelings upon flowers, which together create the final mural. Here you could spend forever reading the memories, fears, insecurities and dreams of those who have walked through the jungle, in a final gesture of powerful, shared emotion.

Don't miss it! 23 Jul - 31 Oct 2021, NOW Gallery, Greenwich, London

Every Room Should Sing

2021-05-27T17:41:00.001+00:00

Every interior designed room should be comfortable and beautiful but also inspire you, energise you and take you a tiny bit by surprise. Beata Heuman, at London Design Week 2021, describes her design philosophy by remarking Every Room Should Sing, also the title of her new book. Beata’s style always makes you feel like you are stepping into something a little bit different.

Her use of strong colours, mix of patterns and textures and interesting shapes is uplifting and joyful. Beata's rooms are keys to unlocking the imagination and living with a little bit of the fantastical in your home...

Style Spy: Design Trends 2021 Take a Travel Vibe

2021-05-21T17:17:00.000+00:00

Design trends seem to have taken a serious travel vibe, according to London Design Week 2021’s style spy speakers today. Outdoor spaces have become an extra room in our houses as the pandemic has pushed us to socialise outdoors and make the most of our gardens as an extra room. This mood board was put together by Arabella McNie and shows an array of fabrics which, because of new technology, are able to be used outdoors, but also find themselves popular indoors as clients often ask for wipeable, tough fabrics to cope with family demands including young children and pets. The message is that you don’t have to compromise on style. I love the beautiful white, arched patio heater. Portable lighting is another growing trend as we crave the luxury of sitting outdoors in a stylish space lit without dangling cords. The trend for travel-inspired design reveals how constrained we have all felt over the past year or two and this is emerging in human creative expression.

Geo Green and Gold Magic

2021-04-08T15:25:00.001+00:00

I love this design scheme created for a client recently. The Hicks hexagon wallpaper from Cole & Son combines with the gold and yellow accents and creates a beautiful, sumptuous and bright look. Art plays an important role in bringing in a contemporary touch with different colours and texture adds a crucial layer of interest to enliven the design adding that touch of magic.

If you need interior design help, contact me @brightspacedesign.

A den that children and parents will love

2021-02-06T10:00:00.017+00:00

Parents with young children have been going slightly stir crazy during lockdown and the current pandemic has made it imperative that home is somewhere we can all escape to and find space to relax in peace. This fabulous Hideaway from British brand, Plum Play embraces the outdoors for stimulating outdoor activities which encourage a sustainable and active lifestyle. It not only looks amazing but also creates a perfect den, play area or chill out space where parents can have story time or creative lessons with their children. A fantastic alternative classroom!

The Hideaway is crafted from sustainably sourced wood and designed to help shape future nature-lovers. It has a unique fabric door, includes a planting area and can be a useful resource to teach children about nature or gardening. They can learn to nurture their own plants and flowers or grow vegetables. The built-in planter could even be turned into a sand or mud pit. Children can create mud pies on the counter and write their recipes on the easy-clean, clear painting screen.

The Plum Discovery® Nature Play Hideaway costs £799

A letterbox is a magical touch and fabulous for role play.

Bamboo wind chimes and guttering provide useful lessons for children, encouraging a love for the outdoors and nature.

And if you really need somewhere to escape to once the little ones are tucked up in bed, the den can be your very own mini escape room. Grab a drink, an iPad or a book and chill. Unless you're 6ft 2"!

@brightspacedesign

An Extraordinary "Before and After"

2021-02-02T14:43:00.002+00:00

If you love 'before and after' photos of interiors you're going to love this one! This space was once a standard sized bungalow which hadn't been altered or renovated since it was built in the 1930s. Now it it has been extended to create a beautiful, spacious, open plan room at the rear which is flooded with natural light. The new pitched roof has created a feeling of endless space looking towards the sky through the roof lights.

Open plan living with an oak herringbone parquet floor throughout.

Details such as the Calacutta quartz worktops bring interesting detail and texture...

Light floods into the kitchen from three angles. This is the front view which used to be a bedroom next to the garage...

The large island has ample cooking and food preparation space, as well as being a great place to arrange a buffet. (Those were the days when we thought of family gatherings and parties! Hoping to return to these one day soon.)

The tall, elegant chimneys on the bungalow are protected in this conservation area, so the fireplace hole was knocked through from the other side to create a contemporary built-in fireplace in the new kitchen.

Charcoal and white kitchen units create a monochromatic balance which is offset with the natural oak beams and herringbone floor...

White shutters at the windows let light flood through but also give privacy when required.

See more photos and information and with "before" photos here.

@brightspacedesign

8 Cost-Friendly, Stylish Gifts

2020-12-08T16:11:00.006+00:00

Grab a drink (hot or cold) and settle down with some relaxing music or your favourite podcast. Gather your ribbons, tags and gift paper and start wrapping early to avoid the last minute stress. Here is a little selection of presents to set you on your way towards preparing for Christmas, which will hopefully give you plenty of ideas.

From left to right:

Tea Fishermen (in box). Four delightful Chinese style fishermen who calmly sit on the edge your tea cup. Based on the old tale of Jiang Taigong, who used straight fish hooks because he believed the fish would come to him when they were ready. With these stylish, white little silicon men holding your hooks, you can also wait patiently while your tea steeps. We enjoyed these in the office as you can individualise your mug and avoid tea cup mayhem.

On books: Neal's Yard Remedies beautifully scented candle in glass jar made from organic beeswax and plant-oils with a textile wick. Choose from Balancing, Calming or Uplifting; they all smell amazing and contain no nasties with 100% essential oils. Comes boxed so very easy to wrap.

Holistic candle, Bergamot and Wild Flowers scented soy candle with 100% essential oils, with a cotton wick, hand poured in London. Comes in a white, cotton, drawstring bag. The 125ml burns for up to 25 hours. Sublimely scented with a top note of crisp bergamot and fresh jasmine.

Ion8 Cafestor Leakproof Thermal insulated stainless steel bottle, suitable for hot or cold drinks, with Thermo Shield, double wall vacuum insulation to project the drink's temperature for hours. I just love the colour of this one I was sent to review. I've been using this every day for my tea or hot water and it really is leak proof with a fabulous flip-top, lockable lid. BPA and toxin free. Comes boxed.

Neal's Yard Remedies Refine Melissa Handcare Duo in a gorgeously innovative, recyclable flower pot container which you can keep or use to plant in. Contains Melissa hand polish and hand cream. Just gorgeous! To the left pictured is a free hand-crafted Alder Tree Bomb container which comes with the Melissa gift. This is part of Neal's Yard's initiative to help plant more trees, protect our planet and take action on climate change. If you're looking for an ethical gift start here.

The Fetch bottle opener by Kikkerland is made of beech wood and stainless steel. With a magnet mouth this stylish little dog will turn your bottle top into a frisbee! Also boxed and easy to wrap. Our review sample caused a fun office distraction and is sure to impress at Christmas.

Book gift ideas: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying. If you haven't had a chance to do this during the lockdowns then the new year is a good time to start afresh. A guide to help transform your home into a permanently clutter-free, calm space with the popular KonMari method created by Japan's expert de-clutterer and professional cleaner Marie Kondo. Widely available in bookshops and online.

Creative Flow, for those who wish to spark and nourish their creativity, by Jocelyn de Kwant Amsterdam-based, Dutch writer who specialises in writing about mindfulness, nature, creativity and simplifying life.

So there are eight gift ideas which won't cost the earth and hopefully edge you nearer to Christmas with a spring in your step.

Support your local independent restaurant

2020-11-03T15:49:00.005+00:00

Amazing independent restaurants, such as Per Tutti, based in St Albans and also in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, have been serving delicious food and providing fantastic service for diners. But the Covid-19 pandemic has brought chaos and uncertainty for establishments like these. Not only is their Italian-inspired food delicious, but the spacious interiors are stylish and comfortable, designed by Bright Space Design. Both venues are usually fully booked, but this is sadly not possible in the current climate, although measures have recently been put into place by the owners to help diners eat safely, such as the installation of special screens. However, the restaurants have been offering a take-away service for those who don't want to miss out on their wonderful menu. Do call and order and support these restaurants as we don't want to reach the end of the pandemic to find that unique and wonderful places like these are lost.

The Berkhamsted branch (below) with 'David' wall art direct from Venice...

Hospitality at its best at Per Tutti...

Be sure to book a booth if you can to eat in style and comfort. This is the first of the three dining rooms at Per Tutti, Berkhamsted. The listed building was once a school and later, a bank.

Interior design and space planning, by Bright Space Design

Time for a calm, Cornish break... with bubbles

2020-10-21T16:52:00.002+00:00

A pandemic is not something I ever imagined I'd live through and it has been a difficult year, but I firmly believe there is a light at the end of the tunnel. So maybe it's time to start looking at venturing out and taking a break somewhere beautiful to restore and soothe our souls. These timelessly stylish boutique-barns set in the heart of Cornwall, masterminded by Notting Hill-based House Nine Design, have a new world luxurious sophistication, blending architectural design and unique, bespoke interior styling.

Complete with burnt black larch wood and floor-to-ceiling glass frontages, some with rooftop hot tubs, the new boutique barns at The Meadows at Retallack Resort and Spa will provide an elevated level of holiday retreats on this waterside development.

After being cooped up with lockdowns, tiers and months of avoiding people or social distancing, here you can recharge your batteries, fling open doors, star gaze at night or breathe that fresh air with far reaching views.

A balanced mix of contemporary and vintage style...

I'm starting to dream about taking a break which includes jacuzzi bubbles in my own hot tub, fine dining, a spa and fresh country air. This might be just what we all need.

Food to Help you Love Yourself!

2020-08-04T20:14:00.001+00:00

Working during a pandemic has been an interesting experience, bringing a whole new set of challenges. Living with lockdown has kept us confined indoors, zooming, designing, looking at screens far longer than we should. Along came a chance to try out some healthy, lovingly-prepared top chef food made using the freshest seasonal ingredients and have it delivered to our door, so we jumped at the chance to review.

Love Yourself deliver a variety of calorie-controlled weekly diet packages which include five meals per day, for five days a week. You can even track your diet with each meal by syncing into the MyFitnessPal app to keep in track of nutritional goals and progress.

Menus are changed on a weekly basis and there are numerous choices including gluten-free, vegetarian, ketogenic or muscle gain, with daily calorie intake options ranging from 1200-2500. The freshly cooked meal sets are scientifically balanced throughout, guaranteeing your dietary requirements are met so you can achieve your goals.

The idea behind Love Yourself began after Head Chef Michal finished cookery school and started working with some of the most dedicated and passionate chefs. Michal began to experiment with new flavours and recipes and used his years of experience in the restaurant industry to reach out to those with busy personal and work lives, who don’t always have the time to spend in the kitchen, but want to eat healthy, quality food.

You can heat up your meals in the microwave (instructions are on the packaging) or simply enjoy cold.

This Quinoa Baharat (below) with flavoursome broad beans had nice textures with a crunch of sunflower seeds, with original flavours, a delicious dressing and a spice mix. It was refreshingly good as a summer's day meal. We added a squeeze of lemon to elevate the taste a bit more.

We heated up the Italian-style soup in the microwave for two minutes. It was a warming and delicious blend of chunky vegetables with beans.

Ingredients are locally sourced and seasonal. To use with the My Fitness Pal app you simply scan the barcode on each meal label to add the nutritional value to your account.

Love Yourself help you to maintain a balanced diet with the perfect amount of fresh meat, fish and vegetables, or without meat of course, if you select the veggie option. Meat substitutes such as tofu, seitan and Quorn ensure full flavour and nourishment and eliminate all animal produce from your diet, if that is what you wish for.

Colourful food, packed with all the nutrients you require.

Simple Summer Pleasures

2020-07-29T15:51:00.005+00:00

The best summer days are those where you can enjoy simple pleasures, be mindful and breathe in life. Eating outdoors has an earthy, uplifting feel which rejuvenates us. I would love to eat a Greek salad from this gorgeous Ariel bowl from the Swedish brand By On. It bears a beautiful form with the shape of a seashell and its wavy surface exudes elegance to create a sea-inspired table setting.

A curved end to the scallop shape makes it easy to hold.

The Ariel bowl is sculpturally beautiful too and can stand alone in a display.

Available from Nordic Nest.

@brightspacedesign

A Piece of Cake - with AnySharp Pro World's Best Knife Sharpener

2019-12-12T23:02:00.000+00:00

If you are looking for a nifty little inexpensive gadget, look no further than the AnySharp Pro World’s Best Knife Sharpener, patented and designed with tungsten carbide technology for expertly sharpening almost any type of knife, even serrated blades.

We tried the AnySharp Pro before slicing up our office baguettes and found its PowerGrip suction base gave it instant good stability on any smooth surface and with light pressure and a few deft strokes, our knives were as sharp as new. At a celebration, serving up perfectly proportioned birthday treats proved to be a piece of cake.

We loved the AnySharp's ease of use and compact size (6 x 6 x 7 cm) which is so easy to store tidily in a kitchen drawer or tool box, ready to pop back out easily whenever needed.

Available from Lakeland, Wayfair and other retailers.

The box is a perfect size for easy gift wrapping.

The AnySharp is available in various colours.

Water, water everywhere, but is it safe to drink?

2019-09-30T16:36:00.000+00:00

Drinking from beautiful glasses always makes the drink feel more special, even if it's purely water. Designer Tapio Wirkkala took inspiration from the melting ice in Lapland to create this beautiful Ultima Thule carafe for Iittala with coordinating drinking glasses.

The Ultima Thule's gorgeous bubble design base...

The trio is a perfect gift or a welcome addition to the home collection, available from Nordic Nest.

Following a more contemporary vibe the Acqua glass and matte stainless steel water carafe from Blomus is a classic glass decanter that holds a generous 1.5 litres. A smart, self-closing lid ensures that ice cubes stay in the carafe while pouring to keep its contents perfectly chilled. Using lemon or strawberries in the carafe is a brilliant way to add flavour to your beverage while also creating a colourful centrepiece on the dining table. The cleverly designed lid also makes the carafe highly versatile — if you're serving sweeter drinks, such as juice at a festive children's birthday party, the lid makes sure the drink is protected from wasps and other pests.

The Essence decanter (below) is part of Iittala's series designed by Alfredo Häberli. With an elongated, tall design, the white and red wine series with accompanying champagne and drinking glasses gives an elegant touch to any occasion.

The tall and graceful Essence decanter

We've sneaked in this pretty Alveskog drinking glass from the Norwegian design studio Wik & Walsøe which will look gorgeous on seasonal, Christmas tables.

It's all very well having beautiful glassware, but what about the water we are drinking? At the Bright Space Design studio, we had the pleasure to test the ZeroWater - from the only water filter brand that delivers the equivalent to purified bottled water into your home, and removes 99.6% of total dissolved solids (TDS). No other water filter producer comes close to the ZeroWater's five-stage ion exchange technology with its gravity-fed filtration system that matches the TDS levels found in purified bottle water.

The Good Housekeeping Research Institute confirm that ZeroWater removes more total contaminants such as chromium, lead, hydrogen sulphide, aluminium, mercury and 99% of fluoride from water than conventional two-stage filters, such as Brita, which remove less than 50%.

We loved the laboratory-grade digital TDS meter which is included with the spacious 2.8 litre jug and can be used to test any water you want to drink. The aim is to produce a “000” reading of your water quality and to change your filter when the reading displays 006. Once the filter gets ‘old’, its performance drop off rapidly and the taste of the water changes back noticeably.

The 12-cup pitcher does need a large fridge, or you can leave it out on the counter and pour your softened water from the tap dispenser direct, rather than lifting and pouring from the jug - very handy!

What about taste? The ZeroWater removes virtually all chlorine, and you will notice the taste of the water transform to what is arguably the purest tasting drinking water.

Watch Phillip Schofield on ITV's 'How To Spend it Well at Christmas' review the ZeroWater.

The ZeroWater 12-cup pitcher costs £39.99.

How Your House Plants Can Survive Under Floor Heating

2019-05-15T11:26:00.000+00:00

Under floor heating emits constant heat which then transfers directly into plant pots which are placed on them, drying out the soil far too quickly. Here are some fabulous raised indoor planters which look amazing and that your plants will love you for.

This Bloomingville Black Standing Metal Deer Storage Basket (below) has a stylish cage design and is made from iron in a black finish. Perfect for raising things off the ground, creating extra storage space and displaying plants or home accessories.

Make your standing metal planters even more versatile by adding this Brass Shelf for Standing Metal Planters by Hurn & Hurn to create a multi-levelled display. Use the solid brass shelf to create a side table element to the planter or as a platform for a plant pot to sit on. This accessory covers a third of the overall length of the planter, so it can be placed anywhere along the top of a compatible standing planter, available from Ferm Living.

These are the top 10 house plants that clean the air, according to NASA Studies:

1. "Bamboo Palm" – Chamaedorea Seifritzii
2. "Chinese Evergreen" - Aglaonema Modestum
3. "English Ivy" - Hedera Helix
4. Gerbera Jamesonii
5. Dracaena “Janet Craig”
6. Dracaena Marginata
7. "Mass cane/Corn Plant" - Dracaena Massangeana
8. "Mother-in-Law’s Tongue" - Sansevieria Laurentii
9. "Pot Mum" - Chrysantheium morifolium
10. "Peace Lily" - Spathiphyllum

Succulents are a great choice of plants for the home because, not only do they not need too much watering, but they are also good at cleaning indoor air. Like many houseplants, they remove toxins common in our homes or offices, such as inks, oils, paints, plastics, rubber, formaldehyde and/or trichloroethylene and they produce oxygen from CO2.

Pot your favourite plants in this adorable bird feet plant pot, crafted in zinc with a distressed golden dark bronze finish, from The Farthinghttp://www.thefarthing.co.uk.

Mid-century interior design elevated plants to a higher level and this is a fabulous solution for contemporary homes with under-floor heating systems. Add metallics into your interior design with these vintage look contemporary brass planters on matching stands, by Mink Interiors.

Patio paving slabs can also emit a great deal of heat during the summer months. Take the raised planter trend outdoors with these smooth concrete Scandic-inspired pots from Cox and Cox.

This pair of planters in yellow ochre feature a set of tripod-style legs, similar in style to stage lighting! The tall legs give your planters a boost, making them even more conspicuous. Available from Red Candy and also available in black.

An antiqued gold round-shaped bowl on tripod style legs adds a stylish look to your interior design and is a great way to showcase and admire indoor plants. Available from Melody Maison. www.melodymaison.co.uk

The sleek lines and modern look of this metal storage basket make it ideal for tidying away books or toys. Also available in black, from the Bloomingville collection, pictured above.

Style Icon Reveals How to Create Parisian Chic at Home

2018-12-04T16:49:00.000+00:00

Ines de la Fressange is no stranger to style. She was the first model to sign an exclusive modelling contract with couture house Chanel, and became Karl Lagerfeld's muse due to her incredible likeness to Coco Chanel.

Today, de la Fressange balances her life as a fashion designer, busy mother, businesswoman and author with her bestseller, Parisian Chic, captivating readers with windows into her world of French fashion and interiors.

In her latest book, Maison: Parisian Chic at Home, de la Fressange has combined her flair for design with the talents of her close friend Marin Montagut, who is a watercolour artist and the illustrator behind the popular Bonjour City Guide-Maps.

Wrapped in a paper sleeve, which can be removed and unfolded to become a beautiful kaleidoscopic poster, Maison: Parisian Chic at Home steps into the colourful interiors of fifteen creative Parisians, including the authors', who divulge their design secrets, provide vibrant watercolour illustrations and eclectic mood boards.

Detail of Montagut's art...

Kaleidoscopic book cover folds out...

Montagut's art plays a major role...

Contemporary and vintage styles merge with a clever use of colour, natural materials and a wealth of creative display ideas designed to motivate the inspired reader to "Get the Look", armed with lists and tips about de la Fressange and Montagut's favourite design destinations in Paris.

The book showcases both contemporary and classic styles, but Chez Ines is like "talking a walk in the countryside"...

Chez Ines, Le Val De Grâce District, Paris

Stylish storage solutions...

Marin and Ines...

All images (except first one) copyright Maison: Parisian Chic at Home
by Ines de la Fressange and
Marin Montagut, Flammarion, 2018.

A coffee table book you can pick up for daily inspiration or enjoy cover-to-cover for interiors a la mode.

Chameleon: The New Colour-Changing Stainless Steel Bottle

2018-11-29T13:58:00.000+00:00

Single-use plastics are fast becoming X-rated and reusable cups or bottles for those on the go are more sought after every day.

The Chameleon is a new thermochromic stainless steel bottle that reacts to cold temperatures and reveals exactly how much is in your bottle at any time.

Each Chameleon comes with a free sun jacket, made from tear resistant silicone which protects from bumps and scratches and harmful UV rays. The jacket is removable so you can use it when you need to. The purpose is to prolong your bottle's life and keep you away from consuming single-use plastics.

What is the bottle made of?

This stainless

-

steel body is covered in a thermochromic paint which enables the colour changing 

process when cold liquid is added. Sealed with a rubber leak proof lid and h

andy silicone strap, 

perfect for on the go

Is the Chameleon leak proof?

Indeed it is. We have been through a number of iterations on the lid design to make sure your 

handbag, gym bag or kids lunchbox will stay dry.

The Chameleon comes in three colours...

The white section shows the empty area so you know how much water is left without having to look inside...

Peach Chameleon...

Sealed with a rubber seal proof lid and carry strap...

Empty Chameleon...

Available in shops or online from February 2019.

Revolutionary Rugs!

2018-09-25T13:06:00.000+00:00

Natural dyes are used to make these colourful 100% cotton or wool rugs individually made by local craftspeople in India. There are so many allergens in today's homes but one benefit of these rugs, from Spanish label Lorena Canals, is that they are machine washable as well as attractive with a cosy, soft pile that is easy to care for and feels soft underfoot.

This beautiful ombre rug in emerald blue is composed of 100% cotton...

Supplied by Woven, these rugs are available in a wide variety of colours, shapes and patterns.

Currently on trend, the Terrazzo Aquamarine mosaic style rug (pictured below) is 100% cotton and machine washable. The Terrazzo is also available in five more colours including Moonstone, Marble, Rose Quartz, Emerald and Sapphire.

Stylish baby's room with a contemporary twist to the 1970s terrazzo trend.

To create a Scandinavian feel, the Nordic Lines wool rug (below) has refined lines and plain colours creating a light and elegant look. The dark lines on the neutral base emerge outwards and turn into braids. This quality wool rug, with a 100% cotton base, is manufactured by craftspeople using the hand-tufting technique and natural dyes. Woollen rugs are more rigid and thicker than cotton rugs.

The Sunrise rug (below) from Woven with distinctive shapes and soft hues for a bright addition to a room...

For bolder, more vibrant colours with geometric prisms, the Funk Triangles rug is made with 100% New Zealand wool...

The organic, pebbly shape of this rug is great for breaking up straight lines in a room's design...

Elegant contrasts and crisp lines in this dining room...

Geometric lines and shapes are still popular and look fabulous when mixed together in different sizes...

Use a soft cycle without bleach to wash these rugs separately in the washing machine at 30° maximum. They can even be tumbled dried at low temperature.

The braided lines on this pink woollen rug create a striking, contrasting effect...

Green is a favourite choice in interior design this season, contributing nature, balance and harmony. Add a touch of the rainforest with a Monstera Leaf rug on the verdant side of the colour wheel...

My Year in Small Drawings

2018-07-04T18:27:00.000+00:00

Notice, draw and appreciate with this wonderfully inspiring little drawing diary packed with 52 different themes. Each page is divided into a grid so that you can doodle or draw your way through the year. It is a journal to be filled with drawings of the things in your world.

The grid on the blank page encourages you to either draw different things you have observed whilst out and about, or you can fill each grid section with the same subject matter and practise your skills. Perfection is not the aim and the little boxes separate and frame each drawing for you.

My page in progress.

Although it is divided under the four seasons, topics vary including People in the Distance, Sunsets, Garden Decoration (above), Skylines and Trees. Even Street Corners, Cool Treats, and Things Washed up on a Beach find their place.

My Year in Small Drawings by Matilda Tristram, published by Leaping Hare Press

This is a holiday book with a difference, or just something to help fill those creative blips in your day.