HOT BRANDSCOOL PLACES

APRIL 2015TRAVEL CULTURE LIFESTYLE

The Home Issue

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EDITOR’S LETTER

With the lighter days arriving, now is the perfect time to focus on our homes and gardens and look at ways of adding new accessories, or a beautiful piece of furniture. In this issue we have wonderful ideas for every room in your house. We also have inspiring interviews with: Raj Mistry, GROHE UK Marketing DirectorJake Humphries and Stephanie Smith, Founders of Uniqueworks Handmade FurnitureBun Matthews, owner of Menai Holiday Cottages and Anthony Garratt, Fine Artist In our book reviews this month we have a wonderful selection of creative and inspiring books full of activities for all the family for the Easter break. We also have our usual round up of fabulous beauty products. Until the next time…..

www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com

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Picture CreditsFront cover image courtesy of GROHE UK www.grohe.com/uk

Four on Anglesey interview images courtesy of: Richard Broomhall fracturedether.co.uk

Other images throughout the magazine supplied by the various companies, or publishers featured.

Please Note All information about products and services are supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, or news items.

Inclusion in this magazine does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.

DESIGNERS GUILD

Shanghai Garden Inspired by the timeless wonder of Chinese landscape painting and the refined art of calligraphy, discover Shanghai Garden, the latest offering from Designers Guild. This dreamily elegant collection gives a contemporary twist to the ancient form of Chinese painting. Depicting traditional themes like bamboo, willow trees, temples and blossom in a

palette ranging from inky charcoal, pearl and sepia through to blossom pink, imperial jade and dynamic Chinese yellow.

www.designersguild.com

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LSA INTERNATIONAL

LSA International is renowned for its selection of mouthblown glassware and contemporary porcelain. Update your look this season with their latest

collection of original designs.

www.lsa-international.com/

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HICKS AND HICKS

Hicks and Hicks luxury designer furniture and contemporary home products have been handpicked for quality and style and blend together to create an overall look of warmth and comfort. We have covered everything from lighting to bathrooms, from rugs to decorative gems, contemporary to traditional, all handpicked by our team of design professionals

bringing together stylish rooms of comfort and elegance.

www.hicksandhicks.com/

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LINLEY

This spring LINLEY is your go-to destination for gifts and home accessories, with fresh, elegant hues and soft textures creating a contemporary style. For 30 years they have been creating exquisite furniture, accessories and interiors that are recognisable by the finest

British design and craftsmanship.

www.davidlinley.com

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GEORGE SMITH

George Smith Outdoor Furniture Collection. Our outdoor furniture is made to the same design as our standard collection, but made using outdoor appropriate materials, meaning that the furniture is suitable for use in gardens, roof terraces, by swimming pools and any

other outdoor location. For the full outdoor collection, please visit our website:

www.georgesmith.co.uk

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INTERVIEW

Hot Brands Cool Places spoke with Raj Mistry, GROHE UK

Marketing Director for an exclusive interview

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What are the important principles behind the GROHE brand? GROHE is committed to its five core values of respect, commitment, quality, passion and growth that underpin the company- and these play a part in every aspect of the business from product design to customer service and to corporate affairs. Design is also of the utmost importance. GROHE deliver high design standards that meet consumer demand both in terms of functionality and sophisticated looks, and are regularly recognised and awarded for innovative design, including winning the prestigious Red Dot “Best of the Best” award. GROHE look to the future for ways in which the bathroom can be developed to maximise consumer enjoyment and ease of use, looking to create bathrooms that become a space of relaxation and a luxurious escape from the everyday.

What is the inspiration behind the design of GROHE products?

The bathroom as a space of relaxation is one of GROHE’s design inspirations. GROHE’s luxurious SPA products perhaps best highlight the bridge between functionality and stylish indulgence that GROHE effortlessly crosses, turning the consumer’s bathroom into their own personal spa. GROHE SPA provides designs that will suit any bathroom. The Allure Brilliant range features taps, bath and shower spouts that make a statement in the bathroom with crisp planes and intriguing angles. The traditional Grandera range features timeless curves based on the GROHE squircle- an innovative geometric shape that blends square and circular elements. The Grandera range will be available in a new Warm Sunset finish from Autumn 2015, with the new rose gold shade adding an even warmer and luxurious element to the bathroom.

What changes have you seen in bathroom design?

Remodelling a bathroom, or even just changing one aspect of the room, involves catering for different budgets and providing a choice of stylish designs to match all bathroom interior schemes. There is an increase in shower use, driving demand for both a better showering experience across multiple users in a household, and accessibility to more showering space within the bathroom. Greater co-ordination and integration of design across the complete bathroom has also increased to include showers, basin and bath taps, accessories and flushing systems to ensure comfort and safety are fully integrated. Customers are continually looking for design inspiration which GROHE’s extensive range of options can help to create, offering unique integrated bathroom solutions through new technologies, whatever the space available.

What advice do you have for customers wishing to save water?

Water saving in the home is becoming more relevant than ever before, as people are increasingly aware that the products they use can have a significant impact on the environment. In an average household, bathroom usage is responsible for about two thirds of overall household water consumption, and a third of this water is flushed down the toilet. Opt for a dual flush system which allows you to choose the amount of water used when flushing the toilet. The dual flushes typically only use 3 to 6 litres of water instead of the traditional 13. Choosing a low flow showerhead will also reduce the amount of water used when showering, but not affect overall performance. Look out for products listed under the WELL Water Efficiency Label which are designed and tested to reduce water consumption.

In the kitchen, you might consider a hot water tap. This will reduce both electricity and water consumption because you will only use the water that you actually need, instead of boiling excess water in a kettle.

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How important is corporate responsibility for GROHE?

For GROHE, the conscious, economical use of energy and resources is not just a challenge but also a great pleasure. That’s why we channel all of our inventive spirit into masterminding sustainable systems. For example, our GROHE EcoJoy™ technology has long been a self-evident part of many of our fittings and showers. It helps save up to 68 percent of water used – and truly lives up to its name.

Only three percent of the Earth’s water is drinkable. Many of GROHE s ground-breaking technologies prove that a hands-on sense of responsibility can be invigorating - not only for the environment but also for you.It’s not just in the bathroom but also in the kitchen that GROHE translates active eco-mindedness into comfort and convenience your conscience can live with. And with GROHE Blue®, you’re permanently spoilt for choice between cool, still table water and refreshing sparkling water without a truckload of mineral water bottles ever having to make the journey into your home. This way, you even save the energy of having to carry them upstairs.

What makes a perfect home for you?

A home should feel like a sanctuary. It’s a place that provides you with mental and emotional support and a space you look forward to escaping from the outside world. As we do spend a lot of time in the home, your surroundings need to give you energy and inspiration. How you organise your home and the individual rooms impact both you and the household. This is especially true in the bathroom; for example, a great shower system that provides invigoration is vital to give you the get up and go in the mornings.

As all family members share the same space, it is important to make your bathroom and kitchen places that give you inspiration, and rooms in which to share relaxation and enjoyment. You make memories along the way, which carry through to make a home. www.grohe.com/uk

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LITTLE LUCY WILLOW

Step into spring with Little Lucy Willow. Create beautiful bedrooms in perfect pastels. Boasting timeless, exclusive collections, designed in-house, there is something here to suit

every girl, boy or teen. The Lancashire-based company also provide accessories, soft furnishings and gifts.

www.littlelucywillow.co.uk

SCARLET & ARGENT

Never leaving our family, the Hainsworth Mill story is intricately woven throughout 230 years of history across 7 generations. Scarlet and Argent connects our family to your own through our blankets, throws and finishing touches. Woven with generations of skill, dedication and

knowledge, they are the perfect foundation for your own family memories.

www.scarletandargent.co.uk

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GO MODERN

Based on London’s Kings Road in the Chelsea Design Quarter, Go Modern specialises in contemporary, luxury furniture and accessories. We work with Europe’s leading designers and manufacturers and our collections include designs for bedrooms, living and dining rooms,

through to the latest in ultra-modern ranges for the outdoors.

www.gomodern.co.uk

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LOAF

Loaf’s gorgeous new Spring/Summer 2015 collection has arrived! Our range includes more than 40 new designs along with our first Little Loafers kids’ collection. With something for every room, our laid back and homey pieces include new sofas, beds, kitchen tables, lighting, rugs, storage and accessories. All of our designs are handmade and our beds and sofas are lovingly upholstered in Derbyshire with more than 80 fabrics by the likes of Designers Guild,

Romo and Ian Mankin. Loaf stockist details:

www.loaf.com / 0845 459 9937

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SASS & BELLE

Discover Sass & Belle, the brand known for the little things that make life beautiful. With irresistible homewares and stylish gifts, Sass & Belle brings charm and character into your

home by capturing a classically British sense of style with a feminine, contemporary and design-led twist.

www.sassandbelle.co.uk/

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INTERVIEW

Hot Brands Cool Places spoke with Jake Humphries & Stephanie

Smith, Founders of Uniqueworks Handmade Furniture for an exclusive interview

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What was the inspiration behind Uniqueworks?Stephanie - We set up Uniqueworks in 2009 after my father died and left me a little bit of money - we decided we could really set up a creative business together, which would be fulfilling and also enable us to bring up our young family, here in Pembrokeshire. Jake had just trained as a cabinet-maker at Cardigan College and so making furniture seemed the natural thing to do. Since each piece of our furniture is a one off, unique piece, ‘Uniqueworks’ seemed an appropriate name!

Jake – I really liked the idea of making things directly for people and getting completely away from modern mass-manufacture. We carry on age-old traditions of using local materials to make proper practical furniture for daily use by our customers - I just happen to believe it can be beautiful too.

Which comes first the wood, or the design? Jake - The wood! I love wood and being part of the cycle of making things out of natural materials. I like going to the sawmill, selecting the right boards and seeing as if by magic, what’s revealed, once I plane away the old grey, weathered surface. I work with an instinctive reaction to the wood – quite a gentle, cosseting process - and prefer to let it suggest to me what I make, rather than impose a design upon it. I’m really inspired by our local Welsh native trees, which are full of fabulous grain, knots and burrs - not just oak, but more unusual and interesting ones like elm, yew or cherry which can make the most beautiful furniture, full of the character of the wood itself.

What are the reasons why people buy handmade designs?Stephanie - When you choose something that’s been handmade, I think you really buy into something that has some integrity and has had a craftsperson’s time, skill and knowledge spent upon it. Handmade things have the little idiosyncracies and ‘flaws’, if you like, which give that item character and appeal. You can expect good quality and also a degree of individuality - often a piece is being made specifically for you and there’s a certain satisfaction from being involved as your furniture project take shape and then seeing it becoming part of your home.

We have built up strong relationships with small Welsh saw mills and local landowners to source our wood and so, more often than not, we know where the actual trees grew originally. We find that people really like to know the provenance of their furniture and it makes buying something handmade that bit more special. One of our customers loved having a dining table we’d made from a tree which had grown in the town of Aberystwyth, where he was born – it really meant something to him.

Some other customers were thrilled that their bespoke elm table had been made from a tree from woods which they could actually see from their house, in the valley below, near Kidwelly. One of our favourite projects was creating ‘The Grand Throne’ for the National Botanic Garden of Wales - a huge wooden chair cut from timber from an old oak tree which once grew in the Gardens. Children climb all over it now and it’s been used for storytelling and theatre productions. It’s a lovely story and in a way the tree lives on where it started life – it’s become part of the heritage of the Gardens.

Do you have a favourite piece of furniture that you have created?Jake - The piece of furniture that I’ve found most pleasing over the years and that I would never dream of selling, is really just an old-fashioned country settle - like a high backed pew – but made with the most glorious timber I’ve ever found.

It’s spalted elm wood full of swirling patterns and colours, which I’ve split and book-matched into decorative panels, each one startlingly different. If you look into the grain, you can make out all sorts of pictures - a wolf’s head, a heart, the entrance to a tunnel and a phoenix rising from the ashes to name but a few! It’s quite eye-catching, but fits perfectly into our old Welsh cottage home.

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What are your plans for the future of Uniqueworks?Really we’d just like to continue working with beautiful Welsh wood and feel happy making interesting furni-ture for people.

Last year we were selected by Number 10 to help showcase British craftsmanship to world leaders at the NATO Summit Wales – we’d like to build on that and try and bring our handmade furniture to a wider audi-ence.

We live and work about as far West as you can in the UK, right on the Pembrokeshire coast and so it’s not always easy for our customers to visit us! So we’re planning to expand our online shop and catalogue and offer a delivery service across the country.

What makes a perfect weekend for you?We really enjoy our Saturday mornings at the workshop, where there is always a warm welcome to visitors and the kettle is always on! It’s lovely to meet people and get good feedback for our furniture.

We also love the outdoor life here in Pembrokeshire and a perfect afternoon would be strolling along the Coastal Path with our kids on a brilliant blue sky day, stopping for frequent picnics and enjoying nature at its glorious best. To finish the day, we’d have friends round for dinner and a glass or two of wine and of course we’d be eating at Jake’s beautiful yew wood dining table.

http://www.uniqueworks.co.uk/

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TREASURE TROVE

The Treasure Trove is the place to find shabby chic and vintage furniture with a unique style and Free UK Delivery! Lovingly hand painted and sourced by us … why not see what

treasures you can find?

www.thetreasuretrove.co.uk

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CHH DESIGN

Fifty Shades of Spring! Caroline’s exclusive, limited edition designs are entirely hand painted hand have a vibrancy and exuberance that is unique. Each piece from her range is guaranteed to bring the joy of Spring into the home, and, in its luxurious gift box, make an original and

stunning birthday or wedding present.

www.chh-design.com

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RED HEN

Here at Red Hen we have lots of gorgeous new home accessories and gifts arriving this Spring. If you are looking for stylish wedding gifts, birthday presents or some new home

accessories we have a good choice of well designed, quirky pieces for your home available now.

www.redhentrading.co.uk

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BLUE ISLE

Blue Isle is an online home interiors store, offering a classic and timeless look with a pared-back, contemporary twist and a focus on design quality. Solid weathered oak in calm grey

tones leads the collection of furniture, table lamps and accessories.

www.blueisle.co.uk

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ROBERT WELCH

Update your home for spring with unique tableware, kitchen accessories and other homeware products – all designed at the Robert Welch Designs studio in

the Cotswolds.

www.robertwelch.com/

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EATSLEEPDOODLE

Spring is in the air and naturally our thoughts turn to doodling en plein air! If you’re heading out to the garden, up to the allotment or off in the campervan, go armed with eatsleepdoodle

cotton products and wash-out pens for extra creativity and magic moments.

www.eatsleepdoodle.com

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RED LILLY

Throughout the Spring there will be additions to our Botanical, Coastal and Wedding ranges to refresh interiors, outdoor living or any special occasions planned this year.

www.redlilly.co.uk

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INTERVIEW

Hot Brands Cool Places spoke with Bun Matthews, owner of Menai

Holiday Cottages and Anthony Garratt, Fine Artist for an exclusive interview

What was the inspiration behind ‘Four on Anglesey’

To raise awareness of the beautiful surroundings in which we work, live and play, to acknowledge the great artists Turner, Brett, Varley etc. who visited N. Wales in the 16th, 17th and 18th Centuries to paint and many of those same views remain unchanged and I wanted to put a 21st Century spin on it. To give visitors to Anglesey the opportunity to walk, to stand, look at and chat about with friends. To soak up scenery and the painting, to encourage children outside; to paint, draw and to look. To bring art tourism to Anglesey and raise awareness of this stunning part of N. Wales.

What is unique about the exhibition?

The idea of exhibiting a painting outdoors long-term, as you would a piece of sculpture, provides an entirely new experience for the viewer; the painting becomes accessible to all, rather than in a gallery environment. The paintings also change in character as the light and weather shifts around them. The paintings interact with their environment and in turn, the viewer interacts with the painting.

The paintings are also about the continually changing weather and portray a few different weather conditions on the same painting; this gives viewers the opportunity to engage with the landscape and consider how it changes with the weather. The project also revisits some sites which re interpret historical paintings. In particular, the site which overlooks the Menai Straits which re-interprets a piece by John Brett and appears in the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff.

What are the challenges in creating an outdoor gallery?

There is a great deal of planning involved in creating an outdoor display for paintings. The structures themselves were carefully designed by Marruam Architects and built by a couple of talented shipwrights from Falmouth; they needed to look sculptural as well as withstand the rigours of the weather, not least the wind which can blow up on the island and risk blowing the large painting panels into the sea! The sites also need to be diverse enough to create and interesting show and persuade people around the island. In fact, I think the most successful pieces are those which are more hidden from public footfall; one in particular is located in a sheep field, the painting simply becomes part of the agricultural landscape. The rusted steel of the structure matches the colour of the earth.

What are the subjects for the paintings and where can they be found?

53°09’33.5”N 4°17’23.1”W

A view to Caernarfon Castle. Across the Menai strait to Snowdonia, re-interpretation of a painting by John Brett which appears in the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff.

53°14’56.3”N 4°35’49.2”W

Rhoscolyn

Beautifully located in a walled garden, a view which takes in the bay of Rhoscolyn, along the coast of Anglesey to the Llyn Peninsula

53°21’34.0”N 4°15’39.4”W

Lligwy

A stunning beach-side location looking toward the distinctive Ynys Dulas (Dulas Island).

53°18’39.0”N 4°02’31.0”W

To Puffin IslandOn the Eastern tip of Anglesey and looking toward Puffin Island and the iconic lighthouse.

What else can people visit on Anglesey?

Beaumaris Castle, Telford Suspension BridgeHeritage CentrePlas Newydd NTOpen Studios from 28th March for two weeks Rib Round interesting boat trip taking in the history of Anglesey Copper MineBoat Trip out to the Skerries light houseLlynon Mill Anglesey Sea Zoo Foel Farm – site of one of the paintings Anglesey Coastal PathLlanddwyn beach Tons of watersporsts availableSouth Stack Light house

What are your future plans?

That would be telling! There are plenty more outdoor painting shows in the making though…watch this space…

http://www.angleseyartsforum.org/en/aaw/member/garratt/

http://www.menaiholidays.co.uk/fouronanglesey-brynsiencyn-cottages

DUSK LIGHTS

Dusk Lights is a UK online lighting superstore that not only sells an eclectic range of contemporary and traditional lights at great value but also offers a free professional telephone support service offering advice and technical help on all lighting matters.

www.dusklights.co.uk

NATURAL RUG

We supply bespoke Rugs made from Natural Fibres such as Sisal, Seagrass, Coir and Jute. Our natural Rugs are handmade to order, just choose your favourite Natural product, add a

border from our large collection and your Rug will be made exclusively for you. More details on our web site:

www.thenaturalrugcompany.com

IN THE LINEN CUPBOARD

In the Linen Cupboard is an online shop offering extremely luxurious bed linens and towels made in England. We also have a unique click and design feature. In just 5 clicks you can

design your own bed linen in various designs.

www.inthelinencupboard.co.uk / enquiries@inthelinencupboard.co.uk

GLAZEBROOK & CO.

Glazebrook & Co. Classic Cutlery for modern living. Finest Stainless Steel designs with alternative dishwasher safe Cream and Black Handle Knives. A perfect wedding gift.

For more information visit: www.glazebrook.com Email: sales@glazebrook.com or Tel: 020 7731 7135 Free Sample Service. Delivery Worldwide

MARGARET TAYLOR COLLECTION

Would you like a tile mural or a hand painted bespoke piece of china? Please get in touch for an informal chat. If you decide to have the art work done, you will receive a sketch for your approval. Tiles or china are then painted before being kilned. Once fired at very high

temperatures the paint is fused into the surface of the china and is indelible.

www.themargarettaylorcollection.co.uk/

ARTS & CRAFTS LIVING

William Morris famously said, “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”… At www.artsandcraftsliving.co.uk that’s our philosophy too!

Home interiors and gifts in the style of the British and American Arts & Crafts era (c.1860 – 1930).

www.artsandcraftsliving.co.uk

THE HEADBOARD WORKSHOP

The Headboard Workshop started making headboards 30 years ago in a garage in London. They were all made to order, all in customers own material and always delivered on time. THW have come a long way since then, but their principles remain the same; made to order headboards, beds, ottomans & chairs, backed up by outstanding service. The team design,

develop and make all of their products in their factory in Wales.

www.theheadboardworkshop.co.uk

Blue and White Style - Gail AbbottSynopsis: Classic and contemporary interiors from Mediterranean to country blue. Stylish interior design tips using blue and white colors. Of all the combinations of color, blue and white seems to be the most perennial, a favorite throughout the ages for craftsmen, artists, and decorators alike. In Blue & White Style, Gail Abbot explores the mixture of blue and white tones to create interiors ranging from classic to contemporary.

With special photography by Mark Scott, this book features beautiful examples of designing with blue and white. Blue and white together always remind us of nature at its most beautiful—or at its most dramatic. From the tranquil cerulean of a tropical sea lapping a beach of white sand to an exhilarating bank of white-tipped clouds highlighted against a storm-laden sky, blue and white always lifts the spirits.

http://www.rylandpeters.com/blue-and-white-style

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictBlue & White Style is book that you can completely escape in, the images are absolutely gorgeous! With chapters based on the different shades of blue photographed in stunning houses around the world, with classic and informal interiors as well as traditional and contemporary homes there is much to inspire you. In addition there is a chapter showing you how to display your blue and white collections. We love this book, it is one of our favourite books this year! Highly Recommended!

Transform Your Life with Color - Discover health, healing, and happiness through color - Charles PhillipsSynopsis: A how-to guide to color phototherapy and how it can improve your physical and spiritual well-being. Every day of our lives we are affected by color. The decorative scheme in a room can quicken our spirits; the bright shades of sportswear can boost our energy levels; the food colors on our plates at mealtimes can stimulate appetite. Outdoors, a bank of yellow daffodils in a spring garden may touch us with delight, or the reds and oranges of autumnal trees amaze us.

Natural daylight contains the colors of the spectrum that we see displayed in the rainbow that sometimes follows a storm. Our moods and physiological responses are affected by the different combinations of spectrum colors in daylight at various times of the day and in the different seasons of the year.

http://www.rylandpeters.com/transform-your-life-with-color-

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis is a delightful book! The contents include ‘The meaning of colour’, ‘Color and clothes’, ‘Colour in your home’, ‘Colour in your garden’, ‘Colour and nutrition’, ‘Colour, health and well-being’. Beautifully illustrated it presents a fascinating examination of the impact that colour has on our lives. Highly Recommended!

REVIEWS

How to Be Creative, Rediscover your inner creativity and live the life you truly want - Liz Dean

Synopsis: In How to Be Creative, Liz Dean demonstrates how we can all develop creativity and find more fulfillment in all areas of our lives. Creativity benefits communication, approaches to challenges, self-esteem, and even the way we live in our homes and manage our time..

Included are exercises and case studies, and at the back of the book is a list of words and phrases you can use for Oblique Strategies cards or six-word stories, or indeed in any way you like. Liz shows you that creativity doesn’t need to be a huge commitment – you can be creative in short ten minute spaces if that is all you can spare, and even then you will feel the benefits. In this inspirational new book, we will learn how to drop self-judgment, find the creative flow, and really please ourselves again.

http://www.rylandpeters.com/how-to-be-creative

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis is an excellent book full of really imaginative and inspiring ideas designed to help you develop your creativity. Each chapter is an invitation to look at a particular area of potential, from problem-solving through making time for creative play, and developing an idea from scratch.Highly Recommended!

Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites - Mary Berry

Synopsis: In this official tie-in to Mary’s gorgeous new six-part BBC Two TV series, Mary reveals the secrets of her very favourite food. Featuring all the foolproof recipes from the show, Mary introduces you to her favourite dishes using produce from the farmers’ market, the herb garden, the seaside, the countryside and more. This all-new collection of over 100 fuss-free, delicious dishes offers yet more inspirational ideas that anyone can try. From tempting Mini Beef Wellingtons, perfect for a party, to her foolproof Saturday Night Pasta, Mary’s no-nonsense advice means cooking for friends and family has never been simpler. And of course, there are plenty of indulgent cakes and teatime treats for those with a sweet tooth. The book also contains Mary’s favourite Christmas recipes, from the two Mary Berry’s Absolute Christmas Favourites TV specials. These are dishes that Mary never tires of, that are not too difficult to make, that don’t have too many ingredients, and that’ll have all your family asking for second helpings! From tempting canapés and inspiring salads to comforting suppers and indulgent cakes, it’s never been easier to find a new absolute favourite.

http://www.eburypublishing.co.uk/editions/mary-berrys-absolute-favourites/9781849908795

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis book is an absolute joy, full of the most mouth-watering recipes from the nation’s best-loved home cook, Mary Berry. The recipes include Canapés, Pork, Beef and Lamb, Poutry and Game, Fish, Vegetables and Salads, Pasta and Rice, Hot and Cold Puddings, and Tea Time. Utterly Delicious! Highly Recommended!

Clever Commuter Dr Gareth MooreSynopsis: Do you find yourself willing away the minutes – and sometimes hours – on your journey to work? With Clever Commuter you can claim back that lost time and use it to improve your mental agility via a series of short problems specifically designed to promote cognitive capacity, alertness and stave off the ageing of the brain. Each of the problems found in this book tests a key element of your intelligence, from visual memory and comprehension, to pattern recognition and number crunching. So whether you want to get your mind limbered up for the day ahead or simply sit back with some enjoyable puzzles on your journey home – or anywhere else you fancy – there’s no better collection for commuters to test their wits and improve their brain function.

http://www.mombooks.com/books/clever-commuter-9781782433958/

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis innovative little book is a great way of improving your mental agility, whether commuting, or as a diversion from surfing the channels on your sofa! Highly Recommended!

Everyday Maths for Grown-ups- Kjartan PoskittDay-to-day life is full of scenarios where your skill with numbers is tested, whether it’s dividing up your share of the restaurant bill, or working out whether you’ve been overcharged at the checkout. So many of us try to avoid these basic sums at all costs, waiting for someone else to step in with the answer, but Everyday Maths for Grown-Ups is the perfect solution! Includes chapters on: • How to Check a Till Receipt Quickly • Long Division • Multiplying and Dividing by 10, 100 or 1,000 • Money and Percentages • Converting Metres, Litres and Grams • Angles, Triangles and Trig.

http://www.mombooks.com/books/everyday-maths-for-grown-ups-9781782433354/

Everyday English for Grown-ups Michelle FinlayA poor command of English is a considerable obstacle in almost every walk of life, from conducting business to dealing with everyday problems. This book takes you back to the basics; the simple rules and tricks that will help anyone to master the language. Rather than a guide to everything you would ever want to know about the English language, it is a basic companion to the nuts and bolts, designed to help native and non-native speakers alike to speak and write correct and unambiguous English in any situation – business or personal. The book offers advice on many different areas, including the writing of letters, reports and other texts, where often it is vital to convey meaning and purpose simply and clearly. It also includes sections on sentences, parts of speech, punctuation and common pitfalls to avoid.

http://www.mombooks.com/books/everyday-english-for-grown-ups-9781782433347/

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis collection of books from Michael O’Mara Books. is a perfect way to brush up all your skills, packed with information but easily assimilated, they are essential guides for parents wanting to help their children and any adult wanting to refresh their knowledge.

London, The Weekends Start Here: Fifty-two Weekends of Things to See and Do - Tom JonesSynopsis: During the week, London is the bustlingly centre of big business, with millions of people working all around the capital, but it’s at the weekend that the city really comes alive. With London, The Weekends Start Here, explore the unrivalled range of cultural, artistic, historical and outdoor experiences this dynamic capital has to offer, with plenty of time to achieve the unexpected before another Monday morning rolls round.

Perfect for Londoners and visitors alike, discover 52 themed weekends, organised by season, with over 250 interesting and quirky entries for unusual and surprising attractions. Including all you need to know about location, transport and the best places to eat and drink. From Wild London in the spring to Nordic London in the winter and Tea Drinker’s London, Quiet London, Japanese London and more in between.

Why not try …?

Drinking in pubs once frequented by pirates and smugglers in Wapping Taking a Scandinavian sauna at the Finnish Church Eating grapes from a royal grape vine Spotting London’s Peregrine Falcons Finding literary treasures in the British Library Soaking up the sun on a Japanese Roof Garden Walking the route of a Victorian sewer, and Exploring the chalk downland valleys of south London

ht tp://w w w. ra ndom house.co.uk /ed i t i on s/52-weekend s - i n -london/9780753556269

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis is a fabulous book for exploring London, easy to use, a well organized collection with some really unusual ideas for visits.

There are many opportunities to get inspired and enjoy all the fun, diverting and imaginative things to do in this great city, one weekend at a time. Highly Recommended!

As Good As It Gets? - Fiona GibsonSynopsis: “Midlife crisis? WHAT midlife crisis?!”

Charlotte Bristow is worried about her husband Will. With her 16-year-old daughter Rosie newly signed to a top modelling agency, and Will recently out of a job, things are changing in their household. As Will dusts down his old leather trousers and starts partying with their new, fun neighbours, Charlotte begins to wonder what on earth is going on. So when Fraser, Charlotte’s ex – and father of Rosie – suddenly arrives back on the scene, she starts to imagine what might have been…

http://www.harpercollins.co.uk/9781847563668/as-good-as-it-gets

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictAs Good As It Gets? is a warm and funny story which many people with teenage children will identify with. Perfect for a feel good Bank Holiday read. Highly Recommended!

Creature Comforts Trisha Ashley

Synopsis: Fall in back in love with life in this gripping read about fate and second chances. The eagerly awaited new novel from the Sunday Times bestselling author.

Izzy has broken off her engagement to her feckless fiancé Kieran and returned to her childhood home – the sleepy village of Halfhidden.She soon realizes that life in the village is anything but peaceful – for one thing she’s living with her mad aunt Debo and her pack of dogs, and for another, Izzy has a lot of unanswered questions.

When she was a teenager, Izzy was involved in a terrible accident, involving various inhabitants of Halfhidden. As she sets out to discover what actually happened on the night of the accident, she realizes that her painful past is actually standing in the way of her future happiness. So when a handsome stranger comes to Halfhidden will she let love back into her life?

http://www.harpercollins.co.uk/9780008102258/creature-comforts

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictWe love Trisha’s books and Creature Comforts is another brilliant example of her skill as an author, totally absorbing, it’s a perfect Bank Holiday read. Highly Recommended!

Shopaholic to the Stars: Sophie Kinsella

Synopsis: Becky Brandon (nee Bloomwood) is in Hollywood! It’s as if all her life has been leading to this moment. She’s hanging out with the stars … or at least she will be, when she finally gets to meet movie superstar Sage Seymour, whom husband Luke is now managing. There’s so much to see and do! And getting Minnie through the hurdles for her A-list Hollywood pre-school will require some…er…help. Becky sets her heart on a new career - she’s going to be a celebrity stylist. Red carpet, here she comes! But Becky soon finds it’s tough in Tinseltown.

Luckily her best friend Suze comes over to keep her company, and together they embark on the Hollywood insider trail. But somehow...things aren’t quite working out as they’d hoped. Then Becky’s big chance comes, and it’s an opportunity that money can’t buy. But will it cost her too much?

http://www.transwor ldbooks.co.uk/editions/shopahol ic-to-the-stars/9780552778534

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThe latest in the Shopaholic series, this time set in Hollywood. If you love the Shopaholic series, this is another one to add to your collection, just in time for the Bank Holiday.

Girl’s Guide to DIY FashionDesign & Sew 5 Complete Outfits - Mood Boards - Fashion Sketching - Choosing Fabric - Adding Style by Rachel LowNow you won’t even need to leave the house to find your favorite outfit! Do you have a bunch of ideas for super-cute clothes but can’t find them when you’re out shopping? This book will teach you how to make anything you can dream up! Dresses? Yes. Jeggings? Check. Put your own stamp on everything you create by first sketching your designs in the book. You’ll learn how to make fashion design mood boards, using things that you love and that inspire you. http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781607059950/girl-s-guide-to-diy-fashion

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThe delightful book is absolutely packed with inspirational ideas to encourage creative young people. With very useful introductory sections including tools, techniques, and how to find your creative style, every budding designer will find something useful for them. This was followed by a series of projects together with patterns and templates.What we also liked was the additional accessories that can very easily be created with no sewing involved. Highly Recommended!

Sew Organized for the Busy GirlTips to Make the Most of Your Time and Space by Heidi StaplesSynopsis: Fit sewing into your busy lifestyle with practical tips that will help you put hours back on the clock! Author Heidi Staples, a creative mom of three, will help you organize your sewing space and works-in-progress so they are ready to roll at a moment’s notice. Revive your creative life and make the most of your time with easy-to implement advice that will have you saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?” Stitch up 23 thoughtful gifts, ranging from handcrafted quilts to home decor, children’s gifts, and attractive storage cases.

http://www.searchpress.com/book/9781607059790/sew-organized-for-the-busy-girl

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictThis is a great book, as well as projects for adults there also ideas for all the family to create together. There are some really creative ideas and things to make, perfect for the school holidays. Highly Recommended!

BEAUTIFUL BIRDS - Jean Roussen and Emmanuelle WalkerIn this stunningly illustrated introduction to the world’s most beautiful birds, Jean Roussen and Emmanuelle Walker pay homage to an alphabet of birds in all their feathery fancies. From Warblers to Blue-tits and Kakapos to Owls, Roussen’s playful poem is complemented beautifully by Walker’s delicate illustrations.

http://www.flyingeyebooks.com/?feb_books=beautiful-birds

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictA really unusual and beautifully illustrated book, which will really stimulate children’s imagination. A delightful addition to any child’s collection.

Spring Beauty Round-upGorgeous Brushes from MAC Cosmetics

MAC 191 Square Foundation BrushA large, flat, square-shaped synthetic-fibre brush with a fine firm edge for distribution and blending of liquid, emulsion or cream products on the face or body.

MAC 182 Buffer BrushA full, dome-shaped brush of extra soft goat hair. Specially created to flawlessly blend powder onto the skin for an immaculate polished finish. Excellent for all M·A·C powders and pigments.

MAC 287 Duo Fibre Eye Shadow BrushA rounded, medium sized, double-chiseled, paddle-shaped brush. Perfect for applying and blending Eye Shadow. Made from a blend of soft, natural bristles and synthetic fibres, allowing for a light wash of colour.

MAC 159 Duo Fibre BrushA small rounded, double-chiseled paddle-shaped blush brush for the smooth, refined application of powder to shade, blush and highlight the face. Made from a soft blend of natural and synthetic fibres.

http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/category/146/Products/Brushes/Face/index.tmpl

Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip OilTrilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, hero product and core ingredient of the Trilogy range, is still winning fans and awards more than a decade after launch. A superfine, easily absorbed pure seed oil, Trilogy Certified Organic Rosehip Oil helps improve theappearance of scars, stretch marks and wrinkles. Its skin-loving natural actives are highly effective at treating dry and dehydrated skin, ageing skin anduneven skin tone.

Available to buy online from www.JohnLewis.com

10 REASONS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH AIRMOTIONAirMotion is a new, multi-use hairbrush that’s been expertly developed by industry experts who understand the factors that contribute to daily stress and strain upon your hair. AirMotion redefines brushing...developed specifically to reduce daily wear and tear on your hair and by using superlite™ materials, AirMotion glides along the contours of your head.

1. Tri-Bristle configuration: Unique Tri-Bristle technology combines 3 different lengths and diameters of bristle providing ultimate penetration for any hair type...meaning no hair is left untouched creating an unsurpassed hairbrushing experience gliding through your hair leaving it smooth, detangled and stress free.2. Air Shock: Patent pending Air Shock absorption technology reduces the strain on your hair making it super gentle and reducing breakage3. Stress free detangling: Glides through the hair with effortless ease...no hassle and minimised pulling and damage4.Perfectly balanced: The perfectly balanced shape and size with ergonomically friendly handle makes AirMotion suitable for even the smallest of hands...no more brushes flying out across the room!5.Smoothes as it brushes: The Tri-Bristle formation actually helps to smooth and straighten hair, helping to remove frizz while you brush to leave hair soft and glossy6. Scalp friendly: All the bristles are hand polished to be kind to the scalp 7.Happy when wet: AirMotion won’t slip out of your hand so take it to the pool, gym or use in the shower! 8. For everyone: Perfect for both left and right handed users 9. Best of British: It has been invented by global hair artist, industry expert and UK inventor Grange Snell 10. Proven results: And finally...it has a 100% quality assured test rating!

www.airmotionpro.com

Korres Hand Duo Collection Gift Set! This Walnut Tea Liquid Hand Soap is mild yet thoroughly cleansing. Containing walnut leaf and neem tree extracts it maintains the skin’s moisture balance and keeps bacteria at bay. Can be rinsed off very easily to leave a moisturising film on the skin.

The Moisturising Hand Cream with Organic Almond Oil & Calendula is lightly textured, non-oily and perfect for use every day. With almond oil, provitamin B5 and shea butter it promotes skin suppleness and elasticity whilst deeply nourishing your hands.

KORRES Hand Duo Collection Gift Set available to buy online from www.LookFantastic.com

Corn Silk Loose Face Powder Original SatinTranslucent loose face powder with a natural walnut formula giving a subtle satin finish to control shine and giving a longer lasting fresh complexion.

http://www.boots.com/en/Corn-Silk-Loose-Face-Powder-Original-Satin-12g_984053/

10 Minute Make-up - Boris Entrup

10-Minute Make-up gives you the make-up tips and techniques you need to create the perfect look with star make-up artist Boris Entrup.International catwalk looks are no longer a secret as Next Top Model star Boris’s step-by-step make-up tutorials allow you to recreate them- from flawless foundation to glamourous eye make-up. You can use make-up techniques to experiment with versatile looks, with lots of practical beauty tips from Boris ensuring you can make the most of your natural assets.10-Minute Make-up fits perfectly into every woman’s busy day, giving you a beautiful new look in just 10 minutes.

http://www.dk.com/uk/9781409338062-10-minute-makeup/

Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict10-Minute Make-up is packed full of ideas for quick and easy make-up, with step-by-step instructions, and clear illustrations. There are 50 stap-by-step looks from fresh and natural to catwalk. Highly Recommended!

Neal’s Yard Beauty BookRevolutionize your beauty regime with this guide to homemade natural remedies, make-up looks and at-home therapies that enhance your natural beauty.

Neal’s Yard Beauty Book shows you how to prepare products in your own home that are guaranteed to make your whole body look and feel gorgeous. It identifies natural ingredients for healthy skin, guides you through before-and-after makeovers, and shows you techniques to pamper every skin type.

Neal’s Yard Beauty Book comes with over 100 organic product recipes, such as anti-ageing eye creams and exfoliating masks, plus step-by-step guides to simple pampering techniques, such as feet and hand massage, helping you to look after your body and improve wellbeing

http://www.dk.com/uk/9780241183915-neals-yard-beauty-book/

Hot Brands Cool Places VerdictNeal’s Yard Beauty Book has over 100 recipes, and also features daily regimes for glowing skin, a younger-looking complexion, stronger hair and many other beauty ideas. Find ways of pampering yourself from head-to-toe, with step-by-step techniques.

DOTTY BROWN

Dotty Brown is a delightful collection of vintage inspired fabrics, oilcloth, home furnishings and gifts, all designed to coordinate in a shabby chic style with a twist on English country

themes allowing you to create your own unique look.

www.dottybrown.com

DANGLY HEARTS

Dangly Hearts is run by husband and wife team, Linzi and Jason, in the New Forest. They design and make beautiful heart themed textiles using UK sourced cotton and linen with

appliqué and free machine embroidery decoration. Most items can be personalised making them perfect gifts for special occasions.

www.danglyhearts.co.uk

ELLA JAMES

Ella James has a passion for eclectic , imaginative and inspiring products, the emphasis is always on the unusual and eye-catching. For delightful gifts visit

www.ellajames.co.uk

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES

www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com