With working from home so ingrained in many of our lives for the foreseeable, invest in your workspace for a comfortable and stylish home office that is both practical, inspiring and a pleasure to spend time in.
Define your desk space
The starting point should be a desk, and if you can, go large for this as you’ll be thankful for the desk top space. If a desk is beyond your budget or space allowance, then the kitchen table can work just as well. Avoid distractions by ensuring the table is completely clear of breakfast crumbs and used coffee cups. Placing a desk or table near a window or in a position with a view can really help your mood.
Choose seating that’s comfortable and stylish
A comfortable chair is key, but that needn’t mean compromising on style. Leather is well-suited to an office space; it has great character and style yet serves as a functional seat for long hours sat at the desk. For a lighter look choose a natural wood chair with generous cushions for comfort.
Add layers of lighting
Lighting isanimportant part of your workspace; a desk lamp adds a classic study look and provides focused practical light. For the room itself,use natural materials to provide a soft light and calm aesthetic. Try our rattan and wicker lighting for an elegant natural glow.
If you have the space, add an occasional chair positioned by a window or a cosy corner; this provides you with a separate space where you can go to read files or think more creatively and take a break from your desk.
Maximise space with clever storage
Invest in practical storage to maximise space either in an office or kitchen. Firstly, decide if you want fitted or free-standing storage pieces; fitted pieces can work well above a desk and make use of wall space, leaving plenty of room for your desk and chair. Free-standing storage is a quick solution and doesn’t require tools. A book shelf or sideboard are perfect for holding files and books, and can provide a table top space for plants and photo frames too, which adds a nice decorative touch to your work space.
Decorate your wall space
Dress your walls with things that make you happy to give your busy mind a break. Display photos of trips abroad with friends, family snaps or beautiful pieces of art in elegant photo frames. Woven wall hangings will add texture and interest.The key is to not to overdo it, make sure there is plenty of wall space in-between, and keep a professional feel. Don’t be afraid to move things around and change up your view.
Desk accessories
Style your desk with tactile mango wood desk accessories or stylish planters and photo frames. Organise pens and pencils in desk tidy’s and pots; it’s amazing how simply being organised and tidy will keep your mind clear.
Keep a natural connection
It’s common knowledge that plants and greenery are good for our wellbeing. Add touches of green with low maintenance pots and planters, it will make the air feel cleaner and provide some respite from the virtual world we all find ourselves using so much.
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Reflect the unique style of your home by combining treasured objects with unusual artefacts, and keep things fresh with seasonal flourishes. The key to styling an authentic display of objects is to express your individuality and showcase items with a story to tell.
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It seems a win-win situation when something not only looks good but has a positive impact. Beautifully arranged storage jars can not only elevate a dark corner but importantly help to reduce food waste. It makes cooking a pleasure with easy to reach ingredients and importantly you rarely run out that vital ingredient as you have full visibility of what needs replenishing.
Refill stores, otherwise known as zero waste shops, aim to cut out any unnecessary or wasteful packaging by storing products in large containers from which shoppers can fill up their own bags, boxes, bottles, and jars. You simply weigh your empty container in store, fill it up with your product of choice, re-weigh the container and then pay for what you’ve taken.
The benefits of investing in reusable containers reduces the need for new containers, reducing the demand for virgin materials as well as the energy used to make them in their hundreds and thousands. In theory, it should also prevent many containers from ending up in landfills and the ocean, as they have an extended life in our homes.
The great thing with a pantry is that you can start small and build over time, reuse and upcycle other glass vessels from jam jars to pasta pots to add to the eclectic look of your pantry.
Choosing a sofa is not only a well-considered design decision, but also a commitment and investment that, if chosen correctly, becomes a well-loved piece of furniture that you enjoy for years to come: a welcoming place to retreat to at the end of a long day, or a space to gather and make memories together.
We’ve created a guide to help you find that perfect balance of expert craftsmanship, timeless style, and enduring comfort.
Before heading into some serious desktop research, here is a practical guide to help you draw up a brief that is unique to your needs and hopefully helps make finding a sofa a little less daunting.
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For the past six years, we've regularly donated a proportion of our profits to Frank Water. Every November this ramps up as the charity becomes the focus of our Black Friday campaign. With your help we’ve so far managed to raise more than £21,000 for Frank Water. This has been enough to provide safe water, for life, to 1750 people.
Our relationship with Bristol-based charity Frank Water began when we met their Founder Katie Alcott who visited our lifestyle store in Totnes, Devon. We connected with Katie over a shared love of India, which is where many of our artisans and makers are based. Frequent visits to our suppliers have exposed us to not only the wonder and vitality of this beautiful country, but also to the hardships, inequality and poverty many people living there face, particularly in terms of access to clean water.
Katie started the charity after her own experience of visiting India. Whilst on a gap year, Katie stayed with a local family in Kashmir and suffered from dysentery due to unsafe drinking water. After a gruelling five years of battling with her condition, Katie recovered and has since been passionate about bringing safe drinking water not only to the family she’d lived with, but to many others throughout India and Nepal. Frank Water was born with the aim to help improve the living standards of the poorest communities by going into areas that are often too remote for larger charities and establishing clean water systems. As soon as we heard about the fantastic work Katie and others at Frank Water were doing, we knew we had to support them.
It's incredible what Frank Water have managed to achieve since it began in 2005. In that time, they've successfully brought safe water to over 425,000 people in 617 communities in India and Nepal. This past year, they’ve provided a safe and reliable water supply to more than 1500 people in India’s Andhra Pradesh. Elsewhere in India, they’ve kept families safe from fluorosis, which is a debilitating disease caused by naturally occurring fluoride that leaches into drinking water. Thanks to Frank Water, 800 more school children now have access to facilities to regularly wash their hands, which has helped prevent the spread of diseases, and they've used their projects as models of best practice to leverage £300,000 from the Indian government to pay for further infrastructure. In Nepal, they’ve provided training around hygiene and sanitation to more than 1400 people and ensured nearly 200 households have access to safe water.
The Frank Water team told us that none of this would have been possible without support from donations such as the ones we make at Nkuku, which in turn we are only able to give thanks to your help; through you shopping with us throughout the year and particularly during Black Friday.
What Frank Water have accomplished so far is amazing, however, their work is far from over. Across the world, 1 in 10 people still live without safe water and 2.5 billion people (that's 1 in 3) have no access to adequate sanitation. The climate-change crisis presents an enormous problem as it affects people through water, whether too much or too little, and unfairly affects the world's poorest people most. Frank Water is continuing to work to build a water-secure future for the communities that are most at risk. They are doing this through mapping out available water resources and putting in place measures such as ponds to capture rainwater, dams to prevent run-off and tree planting to improve soil structure and conserve groundwater. In this way, they're helping people adapt and protect themselves against the impact of the climate crisis.
We are proud to continue to support Frank Water in their mission. To find out more about their work and make a personal donation visit Frank Water.
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Escape from the everyday and indulge in mindful moments of self-care with our collection of bathroom accessories, designed to help you press pause and embrace those quieter times. With stylish glass decanters and elegant bathroom storage, you’ll find the perfect pieces you need to transform your wash space into a serene spa.
Time is precious. So, when you have a few minutes to yourself, maximise the moment by switching off from tech, leaving the outside world far behind and finding sanctuary in your very own in-home spa. Ensure your bathroom is a place you long to escape to by cultivating a calming atmosphere that’s always ready to welcome you when the time allows. Keep it simple and serene. You don’t need fancy treatments or equipment. Just remove all distractions and clutter, and focus on soothing your senses: a warm bath, minimal lighting and some gentle ‘spa sounds’ are the essentials of an enriching self-care routine.
Stylish storage goes a long way to keeping a bathroom zen-like. Our recycled refillable glass bottles, dispensers, soap dishes and containers are the perfect sustainable choice for decanting beautifully scented soaps and lotions. Enjoy the variety of tones and textures – from the robust earthy browns reminiscent of apothecary bottles to elegantly ribbed glassware in subtle hues of blue. Lined up, they will lend themselves perfectly to a display that is in equal parts practical and stylish, and their timeless appeal makes them easily adaptable to all manner of design schemes.
For storing everyday wash items, our simple industrial-style caddy and shelving in metal and mango wood has a clean, contemporary feel, which pared with a bath bridge for keeping soaps and sponges neat and tidy, makes for an clear, uncluttered look. Use sleek storage baskets for loo rolls and a deep shelf with hooks or a rail can act as an effective way to keep hand and bath towels neatly stacked and hung within easy reach.
Introduce a fresh mix of moisture-loving houseplants placed in elegant brass or clay planters for an uplifting hit of greenery. Playing with varieties of foliage and varying proportions can give the illusion of spaciousness even in the most modestly proportioned room. Whether you have one large pot plant brightening up a corner behind the bath or a collection of delicate hanging plants trailing from a high shelf, adding living greenery will instantly create a peaceful, natural setting. Lighting is also key. Ideally choose lights that can be dimmed or wall lights that offer gentle pools of inviting light. A selection of candles and tea lights in smoked glass holders are an alternative way to make an entrancing atmosphere.
These moments to ourselves are rare. So when they come along, don’t waste time. Keep a shelf of spa-ready items so you can move with speed when the opportunity presents itself. Have a scented candle, a favourite oil, bath salts, eye mask and restorative balm for weary limbs at the ready. Then you only have to lock the door, turn the tap and in minutes you can be enjoying a luxurious soak in your very own beautifully serene spa. All that remains to do is breathe deeply, and feel restored. Less stressed, more grounded. Ready to re-enter the world.
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A sense of cosiness is created with soft materials, from luxe soft velvets, light natural linens and sumptuous cushions plumped to perfection. You want to be able to sink into bed and envelope yourself in tactile fabrics that feel soft on your skin. Layering is the perfect way to create this look. Choose neutral calming shades to help keep the aesthetic mellow.
Every bed needs a decorative rug by its side; something soft underfoot that brings warmth to the room. The recycled wool Lamandi collection blends soft woollen fragments, and is kind to the planet with its sustainable credentials and tranquil colour palette. For a neutral tone, try our Braided Hemp collection of rugs; the tactile braiding brings texture and tone adding a timeless finishing touch.
Lighting is an important part of creating an inviting, ambient feel. Opt for table lamps in natural materials with soft jute lampshades, or rattan pendants that diffuse the light beautifully, casting pretty shadows. Choose a low amp wattage so the light is soft. Try and avoid electronics in the bedroom, if you can. Modern alarm clocks and smart phones are great, but sometimes an old relic that simply tells the time works well and reduces our exposure to blue light before sleeping. Switch off from the world around you and indulge in a good book or tune into a calming podcast.
Keep furniture limited with only essential pieces. Choose characterful additions to add interest with a quirky bedside table or a natural wood bedside piece; the natural grains will add to the sense of calm. A chest of drawers is an essential addition for tidying away clothes, and it can double as a dressing table styled with jewellery boxes and photo frames.
A few carefully considered house plants will also add to the sense of calm. There are suggested health benefits too with greenery proven to improve mood and sense of wellbeing. Style in handcrafted planters, baskets and vases.
Dress your bedroom walls with interesting wall art and oversize mirrors. A display behind the bed can make an eye–catching focal point with framed photos of loved ones, or paintings in soothing tones adding to the sense of tranquillity. Woven wall hangings can act as sound diffusers as well as bringing texture to your walls. Again, chose calming tones that don’t jar with your overall scheme.
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Our instincts to connect with the outside world come to the fore when spring arrives in an explosion of buds, blossoms and natural renewal. We find ourselves emerging from the slower pace of winter; shedding our impulse for hibernation and instead unfurling into the longer, warmer days more socially minded.
As we wake up our minds and shake out our bodies, it makes sense that we want to gather people around us in a communal setting to mark the arrival of brighter things to come.This season is all about welcoming others to share meals and occasions with us, and with that desire for company comes the need to dress our tables with natural flair and vibrant freshness.
Consider the focus of your tablescape: it could be the main platter you are serving, but it could equally be a striking floral display or collection of candles. Work with this in mind, adding depth as you go.
Once you’ve decided where you’d like to draw people’s attention, it’s time to start layering up with tactile seagrass mats and napkin holders, natural linen napkins, assorted glassware –handblown and recycled flutes and tumblers –and our unique Eshani tableware. Each item within this collection has been hand painted to create elegant swirling patterns inspired by nature.
Complete the look with beautiful, hammered cutlery and a statement centrepiece or collection of smaller decorative candleholders or single stem vases.If you have a long trestle-style table then grouping tealights or candlesticks of varying heights in clusters, along with small vases filled with spring posies creates an enticingly beautiful setting. For a smaller table, one central vase filled with vivid stems of seasonal foliage makes an equally lovely focal point –keep the finished display below eye gaze so everyone can interact with ease.
A table scene should be as inviting as it is attractive. Keep the space calm and uncluttered to make sure there is plenty of room for food to be served, arms to rest, plates to be passed and glasses refilled. So that the food and conversation flow with abandon, there are a few considerations: place a jug filled with chilled water, ice and slices of citrus within easy reach; put out a thoughtful mix of condiments on the table and, finally, make sure that everyone feels happy helping themselves.
Once the food is served, appetites satisfied, and dishes cleared, the focus can return to celebrating the endless possibilities of spring with the people you’ve chosen to gather around your table.
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Natural fibres and artisan fabrics are an effortless way to bring some laid-back appeal to your set up; think throws and cushions woven from linen in earthy, muted shades. Layering up with our collection of handmade soft furnishings is also the perfect way to stay cosy when the sun is setting but your evening is only just beginning.
A way to keep the natural flow between your indoor and outdoor space is to choose light shades in organic forms. Natural materials such as wicker are ideal and create pools of gentle light that won’t break the spell when you step back inside.
Or why not create an aromatic atmosphere with smaller hanging pots of fragrant herbs and edibles like chamomile, lemon verbena or mint? You can infuse these generously in hot water or garnish sparingly in cocktails. To assess what works best, look at your overall space and consider if your area is made for shade loving or sun-worshipping plants. Then simply pot up, sit back and enjoy nature’s wonders.
Wander through our new outdoor living collection and take a look at the timeless beauty of our rattan furniture, wicker lighting, soft furnishings, rugs and planters to set the perfect natural scene.
Whatever the size of your outside space, garden or patio transform it into a haven of natural beauty this spring/summer with our clever tips for using pots and planters.
1. Choose different sized pots
Pots offer the most variety and flexibility for an outside space. No terrace or patio is too big nor garden too small - simply select a mixture of different sizes and finishes and use the various pots to define your outside space.
Group various sizes on the corner of a terrace or decking area to provide a natural break, or use the same styling to zone an outside area. Even if you have a small balcony, you can still grow herbs and vegetables or fill pots with perennials or plants. A bright display can help to lift your mood and, if you live in a city, it can soften a more urban landscape.
2. Celebrate natural materials
The subtle tones of terracotta are well suited to the outdoors; they weather well and add a soft tone to a terraced area. Mix traditional pots with shrubs and taller styles for small trees. Wide and low planters work well for annuals and biennials, and position decorative urn shaped pots to give a Mediterranean feel.
3. Use hanging planters and wall space
The beauty of hanging and wall-hung planters is that they take up no space on the ground, so for smaller outside spaces they work perfectly to create a green sanctuary. Play with different plants that elegantly fall down alongside a wall to fill your space with luscious greenery.
4. Use reclaimed materials
Reclaimed materials lend themselves to the outdoors with their rustic finish. For a more dramatic look, try mixing darker hued pots and planters. Our reclaimed Endo reclaimed iron pots have a black tone enriched with rust hues that enrich over time. For a cleaner but no less interesting style, try our Pomo recycled planters. Crafted from the off-cuts of car windows the pots provide a striking back drop for plants as well as upcycling a waste material.
5. Embrace indoor planting
If you don't have an outside space, simply bring your garden indoors. Choose an area with the most natural light; near a window works well. If you are working from a corner start by giving height to the back row with a tall standing pot. Try our Endo Reclaimed Iron Planter Stand filled with a tall plant; cheese plants can work effectively or our Sangdi Seagrass Hanging Baskets in a range of sizes. Layer different heights and varieties to add interest, and choosing fragrant plants will add a pleasant natural scent. If you have a window sill fill it with lavender; the bees will love it and the faint fragrance will diffuse into your home.
The most important thing with garden planting is to just go for it. It's all about discovery and learning; the pleasure of watching shoots burst through the soil and buds flowering, and with vegetables, even if it is just a few pea pods, those peas will taste all the sweeter for being home grown.
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The rural landscape is ever-changing as the young are drawn to cities to make their fortune, often supporting their families living in more rural areas. Agriculture remains fairly undeveloped, cultivation methods in large, still rely on the old ways with ploughs drawn by yak or cow and crops cut by scythe. There is no doubt that the toil and labour of rural life is hard. The south of India, suffers the additional burden of drought and crop failure with many families living a hand to mouth existence, a harvest failure can be detrimental.
The NGO we are proud to work with was established to help alleviate the suffering of rural families, who faced the ongoing struggle of drought. By investing time and training in women from these communities, this NGO successfully provides a supplementary and consistent income for farming families, as well as providing an independent income and purpose to over four hundred women, empowering them to make their own money. That’s not to say production is always smooth. The monsoon season can have a serious effect on productivity. Often the women work outside or in their villages and quite rightly are not happy to work in the rain and many become busy working on the land. This means we have to plan ahead with our orders to ensure we are well stocked. We love this part of the production, and believe it makes this collection even more unique. The beautiful handwoven baskets and wall art, in our view, are certainly worth the wait.
The Indra Coil collection is not only aesthetically appealing but beautifully crafted. Living in the UK where everything is accessible, we sometimes forget how much rural living requires initiative. Even the thread that binds the coils of each basket, is spun by hand. Jute carefully entwined to make strong thread. The women gather and chat in groups, sharing life stories and experiences. This year, we've launched the new Sadie and Idana basket wall art, handcrafted using the same techniques as the Indra Coil baskets, these decorative pieces show off the intricate skills of the NGO who makes them.
All this combines to create a rich story, making each product so much more than just a basket. Somehow it manages to build a connection between these mothers, daughters and sisters in rural India and brings their story right into our own homes.
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How to style a small garden
No matter how small your outside space, it can be magical if you take some time to style it suitably. Create a cosy nook with compact and stylish outdoor furniture, and dress with lanterns and planters for the finishing touch. We’ve included some of our favourite tips for decorating a small garden, so you can enjoy the great outdoors regardless of how big or small your space is.
Set the scene with outdoor lighting
Garden lighting is so important in setting an atmosphere, especially for smaller spaces. From beautifully crafted brass outdoor wall lights for the porch or house, to the simple additions of lanterns and tealights, you can quickly bring warmth and light to a dark corner and prolong your time spent outside. Outdoor festoon lights and fairy lights are a popular choice due to their ability to create a wonderfully ambient setting once the sun sets, and can transform an outdoor setting into a cosy entertaining space.
Choose appropriate outdoor furniture
For smaller gardens, terraces, and balconies, choose furniture that can be easily stored and folded away. This allows you to make the most out of your space without having large pieces of furniture restricting you. Opt for a small yet stylish bistro table and chairs, such as our Parwaha Iron Bistro Table perfect for balconies and courtyards, or our Ekete Iron Bistro Table that folds away, doesn’t take up much space and can be placed in a cosy corner for alfresco drinks.
Be clever with planting
Make use of vertical planting structures and wall planters, such as our Api Wall Hung Planters to create a green garden, freeing up floor space for outdoor furniture and larger pots and planters. If you do have the floor space, play around with different heights of trees and plants to create a sense of height and depth.
Create garden zones
Make a small space work harder by creating different zones, giving you the sense that your outside space has multi-functional uses. Create a comfortable seating area with garden sofas and benches for socialising, and an outdoor dining space for entertaining.
Add colour
Don’t be afraid to paint a wall or fence with a vibrant colour to add interest and depth to your outside space, garden or patio. This can liven up any size garden and is often all it takes if you’re looking for an outdoor refresh. A bright colour can allow for the luscious green plants to pop against the vibrant background and help to create an illusion of space.
Bring the indoors out
Accessorising an outside space with soft furnishings can make a garden feel welcoming and cosy. Add cushions and throws to garden sofas, benches or chairs to instantly create an extension of the home. Our handwoven Mayla Cushion Covers and cotton Kajala Cushion Covers are perfect for adding style and comfort to your garden as the night draws in.
Add extra seating
Create the perfect entertaining space using fold-up seating and soft poufs that can be easily removed when not in use. This way, you’ll avoid taking up too much space with furniture that’s not always needed, but still have the option to host guests and make them feel comfortable and at home.
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The theme of Earth Day 2022 is invest in our planet. As individuals, we have the simple yet effective power to make our voices heard through our choices. What each of us does, and how we do it, has a huge ripple effect on our ecosystems.
We’ve put together some simple tips on ways we can help reduce our impact on the planet, in our homes.
1. Bring natural materials into your home. In particular, focus on materials that are naturally eco-friendly in the way that they grow from hemp and jute to bamboo.
2. Seek out sustainably sourced materials as this will give you confidence that natural materials are being harvested in the right way.
3. Low impacts of production such as handmade techniques can also reduce the impact a product has.
4. Shop for items made from recycled materials. Making use of waste materials makes sense especially when something beautiful can be created.
5. Mix reclaimed pieces and charity finds with new items. A reclaimed object will add interest and character to your home.
6. Try not to throw things away. Swap items with friends, sell or donate items you no longer need or want to charities. One persons rubbish is another persons treasure.
7. Try and find a natural balance in your home so that you feel relaxed and happy. Give yourself time to enjoy your surroundings and look after your own well-being so that you feel able to look after the natural world too.
Visit https://www.earthday.org/ for further details on Earth Day 2022.
]]>They say a change is as good as a holiday and starting with a deep cleanse of your home makes good sense. Don’t worry reviving your home doesn’t mean spending lots of money, quite the opposite it’s the perfect opportunity to take a fresh look at how home accessories and furniture work in your home and reinvent the way they are used or styled. The principles of feng shui provide the perfect stepping stones to create a well balanced and harmonious living space.
Feng shui stems from the Taoist belief in chi, or the life force that inhabits everything. Chi is made up of yin and yang elements. These are opposing but complementary forces that cannot be separated. Taoists believed that by balancing yin and yang elements, people can improve the flow of positive chi in their lives and keep the negative chi away. Feng shui is a method of balancing yin and yang, and improving the flow of chi by arranging furniture, decorations, buildings, and even whole cities in a beneficial way. The ancient Chinese people believed that arranging things to create positive chi would ensure good health, improve interpersonal relationships, and bring luck and prosperity.
Take inspiration from our short list of suggestions below.
1. Make an Entrance
In feng shui your entry represents how energy enters your homes. To attract energy into your home, you need a welcoming front door and entranceway. From a practical point of view this is also the first impression of your home, so its important to get it right. It needs to be tidy and uplifting. A lot of objects accumulate at your front door. Plan how you use this area carefully and make sure you have lots of storage to tidy things away. A console table with baskets underneath and a bowl for keys, to enhance the aesthetic add an elegant table lamp, a statement vase filled with fresh flowers, hang a striking piece of artwork or a mirror to bring light and make an attractive space.
2. Clear the clutter.
The principles of Feng shui suggest that too much mess prevents the energy from flowing and clutters your brain. Feng shui is actually less about de-cluttering and more about creating space. January is the perfect month to spend a rainy afternoon tidying through drawers. Those bits that you just keep moving around the house, it’s time for them to go. If you had forgotten you had something, then its highly likely you really don’t need it! Go through your wardrobe and remove any clothes that you never wear or have never worn. Even though, they are hidden away in a cupboard you will still feel better. Neatly bag up your items and drop off with your local charity shop. Removing excess clutter really does clear your mind and creating space also gives you a clean palette to rethink you’re your spaces.
3. Make sure your home has natural light and fresh air.
Air is considered a key component to the very meaning of Feng shui, it must be allowed in. A combination of natural light and air will bring in good energy and rejuvenation. Sunlight naturally energizes and wakes us up. Sunlight also vibrantly renders all the colours and objects that we see. Therefore, our homes become more expansive, vibrant, and energetic when we let in more light. It can be hard in the winter months, but even natural light from a grey day has benefit. Opening a window each morning even just for a short while will help with air circulation and stop a room feeling stifled and stuffy.
4. Use house plants to bring life and energy.
In Feng shui, plants embody life energy, green house plants connect us to nature and bring vibrancy into our homes. The most important thing to remember is to find plants that you can care for and are appropriate for the space. For example, take your lighting conditions into consideration. Add natural elements with tactile, natural materials from wooden furniture to soft tactile linens.
5. The Commanding Position.
One of the most important principles in Feng shui is the commanding position. This governs how you can position yourself in life. Feng shui suggests a bed and desk should be placed facing towards doorways. Facing the entrance increases power and minimizes vulnerability. When you are in these spaces, be sure that you can see the door without being directly in line with it. When you are in a commanding position, you are in command of your life. You can receive positive energy and the best opportunities.
6. Remove any obstacles in your path
Flow is an important consideration. Evaluate your daily path and flow through your home. From the moment you wake up and head to the shower, through heading out the door. You also need to consider the flow around your desk or bed, making sure there is enough space to manoeuvre and not feel enclosed. Equally, in a living space even a small tweak such as moving your sofa into a slightly different position or moving a side table or standing lamp to a different side of an armchair or sofa, can create a better flow and give a new perspective on your living space.
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The joy of lighting is the power it has to transform a cold unfriendly interior into an elegant and comforting home, filled with warmth, texture and subtle, soft tones.
Materials are Key to a Light Natural Feel
To achieve a light airy feel chose natural materials in soft, muted shades from natural rattan, wicker, and palm leaf. These materials boast appealing imperfect textures and tones.
The woven texture of our Beru lampshades, Noko pendants, floor lamps, and Palm leaf lampshades all softly diffuse the light, filtering the electric glare into something softer and more natural. They also cast pretty shadows that a add wash of texture.
An Expression of Spring
For a fresh spring look style your home with translucent glass shapes, the soft, organic, silhouettes of our glass Baba lamps bases and the organic contours of our Otori pendants artfully reflect the light, allowing it to gently shimmer across the hammered glass finish, an effect that also gives the glass depth and character.
For a seasonal uplift reimagine your current lighting with a new lampshade, select a new tone for an earthy connection opt for a soft natural jute from our Dia collection or for a warmer vibrant feel chose rust.
Experiment with different lamp base textures and hues. Try natural woods for an understated calming look, for character and richness explore our Lumbu hand etched antique brass and to add colour the warm tones of our amber Baba glass are the perfect accessory.
A Few Tricks and Practicalities
To make a room feel large and airy use up lighting, for a cosier space go for low hung pendants, this will create an illusion of cosiness no matter what size the room. Consider the flow of your interior, the atmosphere you want to create. Brighter lights are more suited to living spaces where you may want to feel more awake, whilst softer lighting will help set a more mellow, relaxing tone where you can unwind.
For natural lighting inspiration explore our collection of pendants, floor lamps and table lamps, skillfully crafted from beautiful sustainable materials.
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What is a terrarium?
The indoor planting trend is showing no sign of slowing down, with terrariums becoming increasingly popular. Terrariums are miniature gardens originally grown in a sealable container which can now either be sealed or open to the atmosphere. The concept of terrariums dates to the 19th century and were invented by a London-based botanist called Dr Nathaniel Ward. The idea behind them is that once closed, they become completely self-sufficient. Our guide takes you through each step so you can build your own open or closed terrarium.
Planting your terrarium in 7 steps
Creating a terrarium at home is easy, and can be achieved by following 7 simple steps. Before starting, you will need the following:
Step 1: Cover the bottom of your vessel with a 2-inch layer small stones or pebbles. This allows for any water to drain away from your plant roots.
Step 2: Add a layer of activated charcoal over the stones to help drainage and algae build up.
Step 3: Layer moss over the activated charcoal to separate the soil from the stones, then add the soil over the top. You can add as much soil as you like, but use at least two inches. Be careful to allow enough space for your plants to fit in your vessel without touching the top.
Step 4: Add your plants. This can be a little fiddly, as you'll need to remove your plants from their original pots, ensuring any roots are teased apart and pruned to stunt the plant's growth. This ensures they won't grow too big for your vessel.
Step 5: Add a top layer of stones and pebbles to finish, along with any other decorative elements you like, such as shells.
Step 6: Place your terrarium somewhere with access to natural light, avoiding direct sunlight or strong draughts.
Step 7: To keep your terrarium healthy, you'll need to water it using a spray bottle. This avoids your plants getting soaking wet, but rather allows them to stay damp. You can use the spray bottle to clean any dirt that builds up on the glass of your vessel, wiping it clean. Avoid using any glass cleaner as the chemicals can damage your plants.
What are the best plants for terrariums?
Firstly, decide whether you are going to have an open or closed terrarium as this will dictate what plants you choose. You also need to ensure your plants are small enough for your glass vessel, as you won't want any of them touching the edges and looking cramped.
If opting for a more traditional closed terrarium that you intend to seal, think carefully about the plants you want to use. Closed terrariums require plants that enjoy high moisture levels and lower light levels - avoid direct sunlight and really strong drafts as these can be fatal.
Good starter plants for sealed terrariums are:
If opting for an open terrarium you can choose any plant you like, as long as you stick to plants that like the same conditions. As a general principal, cacti and succulents work well for open terrariums as they are slow growing and therefore you don’t need to regularly be replanting or cutting back your terrarium plants. If you are going to use plants other than cacti and succulents, then you need to be mindful that they will need regular watering and may outgrow the terrarium more quickly.
Terrarium styling tips
The beauty of terrariums is that you can choose almost any vessel you like. Choose from geometric open hanging terrariums and planters, to closed rectangular glass boxes with lids.
Decorate with shells, feathers or pebbles for a natural miniature garden, and place on wall shelves or hang from the ceiling for a beautiful display.
Using similar principles to planting an open terrarium, our Tembesi bowls and pots are perfect for indoor plants such as succulents and cacti. These pots are made using antique brass, and are suitable for outdoor use – you simply need to make a hole in the bottom of the pot for drainage if you plan on leaving your pots outside. The plants featured in this post are from The Potting Bench, Totnes.
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We all know that warm feeling that comes from discovering the perfect gift for someone we love. The excitement of taking it home, carefully wrapping it in paper and waiting impatiently for it to be opened. Seeing their eyes light up and hearing them whisper ‘How did you know?’
Giving really is better than receiving, especially when you’ve found the perfect gift you know they’ll love. Discover that special present to bring them joy with our Eco-Friendly Gift Guide.
Entertaining Gifts
1. Anara Champagne Glasses
Treat them to our beautiful Anara Champagne glasses, which have been skilfully etched by hand to create a truly unique and elegant finish they’ll love. Perfect for bringing out on special occasions. These glasses are made from recycled glass - a process that uses approximately 30% less emissions than making new glass.
2. Simi Artisan CeramicsBeautiful ceramics make every meal feel special and remind your recipient to slow down and make the most of everyday moments. This collection is one they can add to themselves over time, so you can buy a few pieces to start their story. The reactive glaze of the Simi collection creates a unique finish, ensuring no two pieces are exactly the same, so this gift will be as individual as your recipient.
Everyone needs a beautiful candelabra to bring out to impress guests and create a cosy sense of ambience. Our striking Mbata candelabra is hand forged and bears the tool marks of the handcrafting process, making it extra special. The varying heights and overall scale of this piece make it a truly stand out gift they’ll be thanking you for years later.
Home Styling Gifts
A home can never have enough lamps, especially when they are as beautifully crafted as our bestselling Baba lamps. A forever favourite that your recipient will be delighted to receive. The recycled glass is skilfully hand blown, creating an organic smooth finish. You can also add a Dia lampshade in a choice of three colours: Stone, Ink or Rust to suit their home.
For the ultimate luxury home gift, choose our Nalla velvet armchair. The warm ochre tones and sumptuously soft velvet material combine in an elegant and comfortable armchair, crafted from a sustainable mango wood frame. It’s so beautiful that you’re likely to want one for yourself too.
The Eluru lantern makes a striking addition to any room, even when its not lit, and adds instant ambience when it is. The sustainable mango wood base has been handcrafted by our artisans in India. Mango wood is highly sustainable due to its cultivation as a fruit tree. Mango trees grow quickly, maturing after 15 years and farmers plant new ones before the older trees become barren, creating a sustainable cycle of plantation and harvest that is much more eco-friendly.
Gifts for Gourmands
Help them Marie Kondo their pantry and store their cupboard staples in a functional way that looks beautiful. Our Kossi storage jars are made from hammered recycled glass and natural sustainable mango wood. The accompanying wooden spoons are a special extra touch they’ll love.
Help them live their Star Baker dreams with our beautiful handmade cake stand. Whether they’re showing off their showstopper brownies, birthday cakes or even a selection of cheeses, this cake stand will make them feel like a true professional.
A beautiful serving board is an ideal gift for anyone who enjoys time in the kitchen. The smooth varied tones of the marble on our Kasa board are well-suited to serving breads and cheeses, while the brass border adds elegance.
For Those Who Have Everything
This elegant piece is destined to become a family tradition. Crafted from brass and mirrored glass, the compartments are perfect for displaying little treats and keepsakes, which they can personalise. A truly lovely gift they’ll treasure forever.
This large striking vase is a classic, timeless gift that will be the star of their home for years to come. The recycled glass has an attractive hammered detail that compliments the handcrafted brass neck. Effortlessly stylish yet understated enough to suit any home. Also available in a smaller size.
For jewellery-lovers, there’s no better gift than an artisan-made, decorative jewellery box. The perfect place for them to store all their treasures, our unique jewellery boxes are handcrafted from brass using traditional techniques. A truly special gift.
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Soak up the sun and enjoy good company whether in your home or outside, with a beautifully styled table that celebrates the season and marks the beginning of brighter days ahead.
When it comes to laying the table, layering texture and colour is key, with brightly coloured ceramics adding a playful look. Our new Malia ceramic collection has a stunning blue glaze that pops with colour, where the reactive glaze ensures each piece is truly unique and no two items are the same.
Our recycled Yala glassware comes in a vibrant new Indigo blue glass this season that pairs beautifully with the existing clear design. Its tactile finish contrasts with the rich textures found on our handcrafted ceramics for a Summer table that's rich in natural colour and texture. For a more decorative tabletop, add more blue colour accents with our new Karala glassware collection, available in tumblers and wine glasses. The soft blue hue and hand-etched design reflects the light in beautiful shadows for an elegant table display.
Add warm brass accents with table accessories to add depth and colour to your table display. Our elegant Chara Hammered Bottles are decorated with a hammered glass finish and etched detail, perfect for seasonal stems for a fresh and vibrant tabletop. Add the soft flicker of candlelight with our antique brass Mbata Candlesticks for an ambient Summer meal in the evening light.
Combine the smooth finish of ceramic tableware with rustic serveware made from natural materials for contrasting textures and colours. The cool hues of our elegant marble platters and recycled glass cake stand are perfect for serving cheese, and our Indus wooden bowl is a versatile addition made using sustainable mango wood.
For the finishing touch, add elegant brass lanterns surrounding the table or as part of the centrepiece for a striking display.
View our collection of pieces perfect for a Summer tabletop here.
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Summer brings with it the promise of longer, warmer days. It is the season of alfresco dining; where we maximise the time spend outdoors while the weather holds out. But with the shift in season comes a need to pack away the layers inside that kept us warm for Winter, and replace with lighter and brighter tones that evoke a sense of Summer in our homes. We’ve put together a guide on our most effective tips to help celebrate the new season at home with a few simple updates.
Display seasonal stems
Nothing says Summer like fresh seasonal blooms displayed beautifully in tactile glass vases. Choose dried or fresh grasses to inject some green to your homes, or select vibrant in-season florals to add colour to your room setting that will instantly bring the room to life. Our recycled glass vases are handblown by artisans giving a unique and decorative display.
Play with colour
If you prefer to style your home with neutrals, try introducing small amounts of colour during the warmer months to echo those found outside. Soft furnishings such as cushions and throws are an easy way to add colour to a room setting, or try updating your walls with new handwoven wall art to add character and style.
Be clever with light
Make the most of the longer days by maximising natural light in your home. Large mirrors that reflect light and create the illusion of space are an effective tool. Despite lighting being synonymous with the more autumnal months, being clever with materials can transform a space for the new season. Pair the tactile qualities of handblown glass lamps and pendants with natural handwoven wicker lampshades for a focal point that celebrates natural materials, casting beautiful shadows on walls and ceilings with dappled light.
Introduce light, tactile linens
Layer-up living spaces with soft, tactile linens that can be draped over sofas and armchairs, or used outdoors as cover-ups after the evening sun goes down. Our Mika and Mahina rugs and cushion covers are handwoven using recycled PET plastic giving them shower-proof properties that make them perfect for styling outside spaces creating a welcoming entertaining area for guests in the warmer months. The plastic is spun into a soft, cotton-like yarn to create beautifully soft textiles for in and outside spaces.
Celebrate natural materials
Bring the outdoors in and embrace the tactile qualities of natural materials. Style handwoven rattan lampshades and tactile jute rugs for a living space that’s filled with texture and character. Many of our pieces are handcrafted using sustainable mango wood, with its soft patina that compliments other materials elegantly. Style with plenty of greenery in pots and planters for an indoor space that echoes the luscious green found outside.
Time for a tidy
Preparing your living space for the warmer months means carefully storing away heavier throws and furnishings that you won’t be needing until the next season. Our handwoven baskets are crafted using traditional Vietnamese basketry techniques and are perfect for storing larger items. Choose from a selection of sizes that suit your space, from free standing baskets to smaller baskets that can be stored in shelves.
Go green for Summer
Our collection of handcrafted pots and planters add unique character to any home. Crafted using antique brass, natural terracotta and reclaimed iron, discover which style suits your living space. Our Wampu terracotta planters look striking both outside and in, with the largest being half a metre tall making it perfect for small trees and tall shrubs. Adorn shelves with smaller pots and hang hand-painted planters from the ceiling to utilise the height in your home, creating a welcoming garden room that embraces the season.
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Styling a home with sustainable furniture and accessories can be as simple as making a few informed decisions about what you buy based on the material it’s made from, where in the world it’s come from, and who made it. When looking to style sustainably, longevity is the key word that must really play a role in why you choose something. Our throw-away culture has seen us constantly update our homes with the latest trends, to only replace these items several months or years later when they are no longer in fashion. In this guide, we aim to help show you how to style your home with sustainable materials, with a view to keeping your well-loved pieces for as long as their lifespan. We don’t support mass-produced or trend-led products, instead we ensure that each piece is lovingly handcrafted and designed to last a lifetime.
Tell a story with reclaimed furniture
The beauty of reclaimed furniture is that it instantly adds character to a home. Each piece comes with a story, where it has been carefully repurposed and given a new lease of life. Celebrate this by making it a focal point of your room, like our Chakala Coffee Table made from a reclaimed wooden herb grinder, which was once a traditional feature in Indian everyday life.
Choose natural materials
Use natural materials for a timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style. The soft patina of wood against the tactile finish of handwoven jute rugs compliments one another beautifully, allowing you to simply update your home with accessories that add character and style to your living spaces. Choosing which materials is key to maintaining a sustainable home. Certain materials such as jute and hemp are known for their hardwearing and eco-friendly properties, and serve well as rugs due to their longevity. Many of our pieces, including cabinets, armchairs, and lanterns, are crafted using mango wood. It's a fast-growing material where once the farmers have harvested the fruit, the trees can then be felled and used to create furniture and accessories and sold to generate further income.
Recycle and re-use
Choosing pieces that are made using recycled materials is a suitable way to reduce over-consumption. Much of our glassware is made using recycled glass, where the original glass is crushed and melted down, then reshaped using moulds or handblown into the lighting, glassware and vases we sell today. Style with soft furnishings that use recycled yarns, like our Mika and Mahina cushion covers and throws that use PET plastic which is spun into cotton-like yarns to create wonderfully soft cushion covers and throws.
Support fair trade
Learning about who made the pieces that sit proudly in your home is all part of the process of shopping ethically. By supporting fair trade projects, you’re helping to reduce the number of mass-produced factory items that are consumed and instead support individuals from around the world to keep artisan skills alive, whilst giving them a fair wage. Our Mali pottery is handmade near Pondicherry in India as part of a fair trade project. The project was established in 1985 to provide training and secure employment for men and women both able bodied and disabled, from disadvantaged backgrounds. The scheme now employs 40 people and focuses particularly on empowering women in the work place. You can read more in Mali Pottery – The Story.
Celebrate traditional skills
Celebrate the beauty of handmade by supporting local artisans who have honed their skills over generations. Not only does this give you a lovingly handcrafted piece that has character and unique style, it also supports artisans in rural communities keep their long standing traditional techniques alive and gives them a livelihood while doing so.
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At Nkuku, we are careful to work with sustainable materials, whether it’s natural woods and eco-friendly crops, or recycled and reclaimed materials. We believe in longevity of design, creating timeless pieces for the home that won’t fall in and out of fashion like many trend-led brands. On our journey of sustainability, it’s just as important to prolong the life a product as to focus on its origins; looking after things to help them stand the test of time.
We have put together some helpful tips and suggestions on how to look after and care for your Nkuku homewares.
Mango Wood
Products: Table Lamps, Chopping Boards, Board Games, Coffee & Side Tables
We love to work with mango wood. Not only is it a sustainable wood, but it has a beautiful mixed patina that can vary from light to dark. A mango tree has a relatively short life cycle of 12 -15 years; once a tree has stopped bearing fruit it can be harvested to make products whilst new trees are planted, creating a sustainable cycle.
As a rule, we do not treat our mango wood platters and chopping board with any finishes, preferring to keep it simple and natural. Over time the wood may pick up food oils. The best way to care for the wood is to add a vegetable oil to the wood. This can be any food oil, including olive, walnut, or vegetable. Simply dip some on a dry cloth and rub gently over the surface of the wood. Any marks should disappear, and the oil will provide a layer of protection for ongoing use. It is worth noting that the oil will darken the tone of the wood.
When you wash your mango wood product, do not leave it soaked in water, instead wash it in warm soapy water and dry immediately with a cloth. This stops the wood taking on too much moisture and prevents any warping or cracking.
Marble
Products: Serving Platters, Coffee & Side Tables
Marble is a beautiful material to work with, it is however naturally porous which means it will often mark easily. In particular, acidic solutions can mark marble, so avoid using lemons or leaving wine stains on the surface. For routine spills, the most important thing is to catch them quickly using warm soapy water wash and dry the marble with a soft cotton cloth or tea towel. For something more engrained, create a paste of baking soda and water and leave this on the marble - the soda should absorb and extract the stain.
Wooden Tabletops
Products: Dining Tables, Coffee & Side Tables
A kitchen table is an investment piece and probably the most used item in the house, so we know how important it is to look after it.
Kitchen tables take a beating with constant use, whether it’s spillages, coffee ring marks or red wine stains, family suppers, children’s colouring pens, the list goes on… Part of the charm can be leaving these marks to tell the story of home life, but it can also become a bit of an eye sore. To improve your tabletop there are a few simple steps you can take.
Firstly, clean the table properly, this can be done with a white wine vinegar and water solution (50:50 ratio of each). Then mix some toothpaste and baking soda together to form a paste, (approximately 1 tablespoon of toothpaste and 2 tablespoons of baking soda). Using a dry cloth rub the paste onto the stain, in the direction of the wood grain. Leave it on the stain for a couple of minutes and then repeat the process. Finish by wiping the mark to remove any of the residue paste and the mark should have reduced significantly, if not completely disappeared.
For a deeper burn mark, more likely to come from a hot saucepan, the method required is a more in-depth. Purchase some light sandpaper and carefully sand the area in a circular potion until the mark is removed. Depending on the size of the burn mark it may be necessary to sand the entire table.
To add a layer of protection to a natural wood tabletop, you can apply a layer of natural wax. If you select a clear wax this will not change the look of the wood.
Metal: aluminium, iron & brass
Products: Cabinets, Shelving, Photo Frames, Dining Tables, Dining Chairs
We work with several metals in the creation of our furniture pieces – it’s strong, durable and adds appealing design details. Mostly our metals should need very little aftercare; we are careful to add a powder coating to any pieces that are to be used outside or in a bathroom to prevent erosion. In the case of our garden pieces, we recommend a gentle jet wash at the end of the season, making sure any pieces are dry before storing away for the winter. If you encounter any rusting on your metal piece, treat the area with a rust remover to prevent any further erosion.
Leather
Products: Armchairs, Loungers, Pouffes, Bar Stools
Leather is perfect for upholstering furniture; it is tactile and supple and leaves a soft and comfortable finish. The leather we use is rich with character and does include imperfections, which gives an appealing aged look. We do not add any protection to our leather, meaning it will enrich and darken over time, particularly around the arms, where oils are absorbed from hands. To prevent your leather from darkening add a layer of protection with some petroleum jelly, applied with a dry cloth. This will also help keep the leather soft and supple. Moisture is most likely to stain leather, so if you have spillage dab the moisture quickly away. Avoid using chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Jute, Hemp and Linen
Products: Rugs, Cushion Covers, Baskets, Sofas, Armchairs
We use natural eco jute, hemp, linen, and recycled materials to create our rugs and cushions, and to upholster our armchairs. The best way to remove marks on any of these pieces is to avoid chemicals all together and simply spot wipe with soap and water. There are some good eco-friendly cleaning agents on the market that will do the job, alternatively white wine vinegar and water works well. We always recommend you spot test an area that is out of sight first.
Jute and hemp fibres may shed, and we recommend the traditional method of beating and airing a rug is a great way to remove loose fibres as well as dust and grit. For our chairs, a soft brush or vacuum can spruce up the kilim and linen.
We avoid using chemical dyes and to help our soft furnishings keep their colour avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
Cotton
Products: Throws, Cushion Covers
Home accessories need to be practical as well as appealing. Our selection of cotton throws is suitable for the washing machine, on an eco-30-degree cycle. Hang them carefully on washing line, avoiding peg marks, or lay them out flat to dry. Repair any pulls with a needle by pulling them through carefully.
With our cushion covers we recommend airing and removing dust and dirt by shaking and plumping them regularly. You can also brush them with a soft, firm brush or vacuum carefully to avoid dirt becoming embedded in the fabric. To clean spills we recommend dabbing with a dry cloth to absorb moisture quickly. Some of our cushion covers are machine washable at 30 degrees, always check the label as will give you the correct information.
Wood Repairs
Many of our furniture items are made from wood. Strong, naturally beautiful, and timeless it is a great material to work with. Another benefit is how easy it is to repair. If an item of furniture suffers a serious break it is always worth speaking to a local carpenter. They are miracle workers with wood, from broken legs to chips, you would be amazed how they can make it as good as new.
Glass Repairs
If you damage the glass aperture of a frame do not panic, there are glass cutters in most towns throughout the country who can easily cut one to size for you. This is the same with mirrored glass, so it is well worth investigating before writing a product off.
Investing a bit of time in the after care of your items should pay dividends and means that you can pass them on to the next generation to enjoy.
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Fancy turning your hand to some home baking this weekend? Kick off your shoes, turn on some music and get creative in the kitchen.
To accompany you we have the very talented Vanessa Kimbell sharing some of her recipes from her new book, ‘The Sourdough School - Sweet Baking’. Sourdough’s health benefits are well known; the slow fermentation process creates a healthier, lighter dough that is easier to digest. Vanessa takes it to another level by carefully guiding you through the process of making your own sweet sourdough bakes that are not only delicious but good for improving your mood, too.
‘It is impossible to read this book without wanting to scuttle off into the kitchen.’ Nigella Lawson
She creates different botanical blends which are designed to add diversity to your dough, where she stresses that these are by no means prescriptive and encourages you to play around with the quantities.
We’ve chosen two of her mouth-watering recipes to share, Ethiopian Honey & Buttermilk Bread and Four-Apple Pie, and have put together some styling serving inspiration for the finished product. Both recipes use Vanessa’s Botanical Blend No.7, which can be found in her new book (see page 57), but you can also make these recipes using stoneground wholegrain flour if you don’t have access to this.
The deep blue glaze of our new Dana collection is the perfect back drop for home baked creations. The warm golden hues of Ethiopian buttermilk bread and four apple pie sit invitingly on these beautifully crafted plates. Serve with our hand forged Sikarli cake slice, and tuck in with our Osko cake forks for the perfect indulgent afternoon tea. For something more decadent, display on one of our Duru Marble Cake Stands.
Yemarina Yewotet Dabo – Ethiopian Honey & Buttermilk Bread
The gut factor: honey may enhance probiotic efficacy against pathogens in the gut, and bananas can reduce bloating and increase Bifidobacterium.
This voluptuous bread is made with barley, buttermilk and rosemary. Rosemary is a stunningly fragrant herb and a potent therapeutic that can relax the muscles of the gut and the windpipe (trachea), while also protecting the liver. It also has antioxidant properties thanks to the polyphenol caffeic acid and its rosemary-specific derivative, rosmarinic acid. Research indicates the rosmarinic acid may have therapeutic applications, including inflammatory disease, liver toxicity, heart disease, peptic ulcers and asthma. Honey also has significant potential gut benefits, and bananas contain resistant starch and fructo-oligosaccharides. Interestingly, one trial studying gastrointestinal symptoms in women eating bananas revealed significantly lower bloating levels in the banana group (compared with the non-banana group), and a slight increase in Bifidobacterium.
Makes 1kg loaf
INGREDIENTS
2 eggs, at room temperature, beaten
6g salt
125g runny honey
200g bubbly, lively starter or discard
250g buttermilk
100g unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature, plus extra for greasing 40g water, plus an additional 10–20g if needed
500g botanical blend no. 7 or stoneground wholegrain flour, sifted
Semolina flour, for dusting
3 tablespoons mixed seeds (optional)
1 banana, finely sliced
1 teaspoon coconut sugar (optional)
SCHEDULE
Day 1: 9pm Refresh starter (first build)
Day 2: 8am Refresh starter (second build) and infuse honey with rosemary
8pm Mix dough and return the starter to the fridge (unless you are proceeding to a third build). Prove overnight
Day 3: 8am Bake
METHOD
1. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, salt and honey until they form a smooth mixture. Add the starter and stir. Then add the buttermilk, butter and water and mix well. Finally, add the flour and mix.
Grease and line a 1kg loaf tin with greased baking parchment and dust with semolina. Sprinkle the tin with the seeds, if using. Turn the dough into the tin. Cover and leave on the kitchen worksurface overnight.
2. The next day, preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. The dough should be well-risen and delicate. Top with the banana slices and sprinkle with the coconut sugar, if using. Bake for 30 minutes, then place a piece of foil on top to protect it from burning and return to the oven for a further 15 minutes, or until the loaf is a light golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.
3. Mix the rosemary, honey and butter in a small bowl and drizzle this mixture over the loaf while it is still warm and serve with cultured cream or on its own. It will keep for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Four-Apple Pie
The gut factor: apples are full of pectin, which nourishes lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
A delicious autumn dish, Vanessa recommends using a variety of apples and shopping locally to avoid commercially grown apples that may be sprayed with chemicals. Best served with cultured cream, such as crème fraiche or sour cream.
Serves 8
FOR THE PASTRY
FOR THE FILLING
SCHEDULE
Day 1: 9pm Refresh starter (first build).
Day 2: 8am Refresh starter (second build).
8pm Mix dough and return the starter to the fridge (unless you are proceeding to a third build). Divide the dough. Roll out the smaller piece and chill for 30 minutes. If you’re making it yourself, prepare your cultured cream and leave it to ferment overnight.
8:45pm Slice the chilled smaller piece of dough into strips. Leave the larger ball of dough and the dough strips to prove overnight.
Day 3: 8am Sauté the apples and assemble the pie.
8.30am Bake.
METHOD
1. To make the pastry, put the flour, starter, salt, sugar and butter in a mixing bowl and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the egg yolks and 3–4 tablespoons of very cold water and mix to form a dough. You may need to add another tablespoon of water.
2. Divide the dough into two, one piece larger than the other; about 3/5 and 2/5. Roll out the smaller piece to a thickness of about 6mm (¼ inch) and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. Cut into 2cm (¾-inch) strips and lay the strips on a piece of greaseproof paper. Lay another piece of greaseproof paper on top and cover with a slightly damp tea towel. Leave on the worksurface overnight. Leave the larger piece of dough in a bowl, covered, on the worksurface overnight to ferment too.
3. In the morning, lightly grease a 24cm (9½-inch), 6cm (2½-inch) deep pie dish. Use your fingers to push the larger piece of pastry into the tin to form an even base. Put the base in the fridge but leave the pastry strips on the worksurface. Melt the butter in a large pan over a low heat and gently sauté the apple slices. Add the grated apple along with the sugar and spices and cook for 5 minutes until the grated apple is mushy but the slices are not quite cooked. Taste and add more sugar if required. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4.
4. Strain any excess liquid off the apples and set them to aside to cool. Take the base out of the fridge and put a layer of apples in the base, then sprinkle with ground almonds. Once the pie dish is full, arrange the pastry strips over the top in a lattice pattern. Brush with the egg wash and bake for 30 minutes or until golden. Leave to cool, then serve with cultured cream.
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Unexpectedly our worlds have been thrown into virtual chats and video calls. Whether it’s catching up with those dear to us, nostalgic virtual get-to-togethers with old friends or work meetings, the video call is very much a part of everyday life. With this in mind we thought we might be able to help with some styling ideas to help you create the perfect backdrop.
Wall Art
Video calls are giving people the opportunity to peak into your home life and interiors. Dressing your walls with art can be a nice way to lift and break up a wall space but you might want to be wary of revealing too much, particularly for work. Find a balance and limit the number of personal photos on display, instead fill frames with simple artwork and prints. There is no harm in showing your creative side and art can be a nice talking point, as longs it doesn’t over dominate the wall behind.
Shelving and Decorative Accessories
Shelving is a practical and stylish way to dress a back wall. There has been a lot of amusement in the media, on the strategically placed books (or lack of) displayed by some celebrities and politicians. It’s important to stay true to who you are but keeping it professional and relevant to the purpose of your call is a good decision. Displaying books in different orientations and leaving space for decorative objects sets a professional but appealing back drop. Choose interesting decorative pieces but don’t overcrowd the shelves, maintain some areas of space and make sure it’s simple and easy to arrange, in case you want to tweak it for different calls.
Planters and Greenery
A free-standing storage unit or side table can be a nice touch in the background. Adding greenery with planters brings a welcome splash of colour and creates a nice environment for you and those on the video call. Keep it neat and tidy to avoid an overgrown jungle feel.
Lighting
Different lighting choices can suit different calls. During the day, an elegant glass or wicker pendant light in the background can create a feeling of space and calm. Natural light is also a welcome feature, especially if this is your regular workspace. For an evening call, choose a backdrop that’s moodier and more playful. Don’t be afraid to add colour to a wall or move around the house. A comfy sofa chat can sometimes be exactly what’s called for, especially if you’re catching up with a best friend or family member.
Accessories
People will be interested in your taste. Think simple and sophisticated with hand painted decorative mugs in eye-catching shades and elegant glassware. It’s important that the things you have around you make you feel good too. There’s nothing like the perfect cup of coffee or tea from a favourite mug. For an evening call with friends, why not go to town with some cocktail glasses and pretend you are ‘out’, at least from the waist up!
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