In People’s Homes

How To Host A Summer Party

Here comes the sun, at last, and with it a chance to throw open the doors to entertain friends and family this summer. From outdoor dining mid-week to Friday-night drinks, a host of social occasions await this season, but you’ll need the right furniture and accessories to make your al fresco fit for purpose and fun. y Here, we round-up the hottest pieces to browse and buy for outdoors right now, whether tables that set the stage or seating that sweeps you off your feet. This year, make it a great British summer to remember. Eos rectangular outdoor dining by Case The best table in the house Sizzling steaks just served from the barbecue. Fresh salads presented in the centre of the table. And jugs of Pimm’s for everyone to enjoy. Summer is all about al fresco dining with those you love. So, why not update your dining table for setting the scene this season? The EOS rectangular outdoor dining table has been designed by British talent Matthew Hilton to provide a visually and physically lightweight piece for the garden with smart proportions and elegant aesthetics that complement the rest of the collection (also including chairs, tables, benches and loungers). It’s crafted from powder-coated aluminium, which doesn’t rust to stay looking good for longer, while everything can be dismantled for storing easily during the winter. No wonder it was awarded the Design Guild Mark by The Furniture Makers’ Company. Tanso outdoor 3 seater sofa by Case The exclusive seating area Over time, outdoor seating has evolved to be more sophisticated than in the past, offering the same level of comfort and style as you’d expect of the living room. The Tanso is a case in point, inspired by the simplicity of Japanese furniture and crafted from high-quality teak selected for its weather-resistance. It’s so refined, in fact, it would be just at home inside and it is outside. Plump for the three-seater plus armchair, both of which feature a beautiful curved profile, to accommodate guests more than comfortably – and team with an outdoor rug, such as Garden Layers by Valencia-based GAN, to zone your outdoor seating area and add more texture. 12 piece box set by Heal's + L.F.Markey The ‘it’ tableware Is it even summer if you haven’t painstakingly curated an Instagrammable tablescape? Layer yours with the block colours, abstract patterns and organic silhouettes in the covetable tableware from our first exclusive collaboration with independent fashion label L.F.Markey. This 12-piece box set brings joy to the table with chargers, plates and bowls finished in a mix of glazes with a tactile matt finish that will get everyone talking. Better still, everything is dishwasher- and microwave-safe, making entertaining an absolute breeze. Orion portable LED outdoor table lamp by Heal's The summer glow While flickering candles provide a flattering glow for outdoor entertaining, sometimes you need something a little stronger or more focused, in which case a portable table lamp, this summer’s hottest trend with an expanding range of styles now available, is just the thing. Our first own-brand portable table lamp, Orion, features a weighted base and a chargeable light. Perfect for taking outdoors, with up to eight hours of battery life chargeable via a USB cable, it comes in a finish of off-white or matt black to suit your scheme and is dimmable for dialling up or down the brightness according to the ambience required. The soft, downward glow is spot-on for intimate gatherings beneath a blanket of twinkling stars. Tradition recycled cotton throw orange by Brita Sweden The must-have blanket While British summers are certainly getting warmer, it’s safe to say that we’re still not experiencing the humidity of Italy or the temperatures of Greece, so it’s best to invest in a couple of soft, cosy throws for guests to wrap around their shoulders on chillier evenings or later nights. Our Tradition throw, made from 100% recycled cotton by family-run Scandi label Brita Sweden, is available in orange or green and provides a stylish way to keep warm during the summer months. Roll and store in a basket, such as this from Ligne Roset, for guests to help themselves. Tallo planter by Heal's The finishing touches A little greenery brings life and lushness to any garden gathering, but a stylish planter for housing said foliage and flowers can be just as impactful. With its distinctive two-tone colourway, the ceramic Tallo planter is our pick for your plants, featuring an engobe matt exterior and a waterproof gloss interior. Better still, it’s handmade by skilled makers in Stoke-on-Trent, ensuring quality craftsmanship from even your earthenware. After all, it’s the little details that get noticed. Luke LED outdoor string lights clear starter set by Sirius The gifts to give hosts Going to a soirée rather than hosting one this summer? Don’t turn up empty-handed. Design aficionados will appreciate something beautiful for their space as much as a decent bottle of wine. You can never have too many placemats, so stock-up on four, six or eight of this linen style in dusky pink for your host, or take a bunch of freshly-picked flowers in our Round Bud vase in colours inspired by the Cyclades. Otherwise, a string of outdoor lights always goes down a storm, whether suspended above the table or festooned in a tree. Canopy pitcher by LSA International Shop more sustainably this summer 1 From glasses to vases, you can always entrust LSA International with your entertaining needs, and this Canopy pitcher in collaboration with The Eden Project – made from 100% recycled glass and featuring a cork stopper – is perfect for pouring water and keeping everyone hydrated during long, hot summer days. 2 Woven in Italy from recycled plastic bottles, the Greenwich cushion in blue, yellow or green can be used both outside and inside, while its cushion is tough enough to stand up to the elements without compromising on softness. Layer on benches with patterned styles for an eclectic look. 3 Not only does the rustic Romilly rug in warm terracotta add instant Mediterranean vibes to your terrace, but it’s made from recycled plastic bottles, while being GoodWeave-certified – the best assurance that something is made without child labour.

In People’s Homes

Entertain Like A Designer This Easter

Easter is the first big chance to entertain after Christmas, and is significantly less stressful than the festive season, so throw open the doors for friends and family with the Heal’s guide to hosting at home like a designer. From gorgeous dining tables to gather around, to covetable tableware to dress them with, plus those finishing touches to set the scene, we’ve got everything you need to put a spring in your step. Oslo dining table by Heal's Choose a centrepiece Some argue that a seasonal feast is the centrepiece of a spring gathering, but we beg to differ. To us, a dining table is the ultimate scene-setter, providing a focal point for any spectacular party. Luckily, we’ve got a style to suit every taste and space, from the newly-added Pelagus table by Fritz Hansen-owned Skagerak for outdoor dining, to the just-launched Sky-Natura table from Italian-based Riva 1920 for indoor soirées, both offering investment pieces in timeless designs. Alternatively, why not plump for a circular tabletop, accommodating guests in a more convivial formation, in the form of the classic Saarinen Tulip round dining table by Knoll? For those who are short on space, the Cross Extending dining table by British designer Matthew Hilton via Case offers superior flexibility, while a bespoke creation from our unique Designed by You collection allows you to tailor a table to your exact specifications in just five easy steps. CH24 Wishbone chair by Carl Hansen & Son Pull up a chair A chair that’s as comfortable as it is chic is conducive to the kind of long, leisurely lunches a bank holiday weekend simply begs for. After all, who wants to stay for another glass of Provence rosé if they’re not cradled in a cocoon of comfort? Good news, then, that our raft of dining chairs spans everything from upholstered to wooden and leather. Whether our Austen dining chair in on-trend bouclé, the cult-like CH24 Wishbone chair from Carl Hansen & Son or the 675 Chair via Case, peruse and choose from a range of materials, shapes and colours. Otherwise, the Stacking chair from L.Ercolani comprises outward-facing legs that enables it to be stacked when not in use, maximising space. Heal's + L.F.Markey tablecloth Top with treasure Now, the fun bit: styling your table with tableware from our new-season collection. Natural shades, organic lines and tactile finishes combine in pieces that put a fresh spin on your Easter gathering. The Heal’s + L.F.Markey tablecloth – part of an exclusive collaboration with the independent fashion label from east London – certainly makes a statement with graphic prints, block colours and embroidered borders. Layer on even more colour with the 12 piece box set from the same range, comprising similarly impactful stoneware across plates and bowls. It’s like art you can lunch on. Alternatively, keep your base neutral with a simple linen tablecloth in cream, then go all-out with playful ceramics by Kent-based designer Harlie Brown – the Citron plate is this season’s must-have – and terrazzo speckled glassware from Late Afternoon. Finally, why not finish with a striking vase, such as Ada by Broste Copenhagen, filled with a selection of beautiful faux botanicals from Abigail Ahern? Orion portable LED outdoor table lamp Let there be light Arguably, the biggest trend of the season is the rise of the portable table lamp, enabling you to shine a light on the subject without a plug socket. Perfect for outdoor dining, our new Orion portable LED outdoor table lamp features a dimmable function with a weighted base and chargeable light, all of which comes in the choice of an off-white or matt-black finish. For festooning your garden, our range of outdoor lights from Sirius is spot-on, adding twinkle and glow al fresco. What’s more, the flicker of a candle is always a welcome accompaniment to dining, whether indoors or outdoors, and these elegant, hand-poured candles in a range of vibrant colours from True Grace are just the thing. Champagne saucers ovals set of 2 by The Vintage List 3 more tips 1 You can never have too many glasses. Shop timeless styles from The Vintage List to stock-up, from champagne saucers to wine glasses and whisky tumblers. 2 Likewise, your cutlery drawer can never be too crowded, so treat yourself by adding a new style ahead of each season. Modernising traditional designs for contemporary dining, Charingworth cutlery creates beautiful sets. 3 There’s still a chill in the air come spring, so give you guests something to wrap up with from Brita Sweden, creating a range of stylish throws made from recycled cotton and wool.

In People’s Homes

The Secret To Sleeping Better

Now, more than ever, good sleep is conducive to a good life. It impacts on absolutely everything we do, from our relationships with friends and family, to how we perform at work, not to mention our own health and wellbeing. Never has it been more in focus, and quite rightly so. Good news, then, that Heal's is on-hand with everything you need to get a head-start, from the softest pillows to the dreamiest beds and the most luxurious linen. Ahead of World Sleep Day – observed on 17th March to raise awareness of sleep health – we explore how you can sleep better every night of the week. Sweet dreams, guaranteed. Organic Mattress by Heal's Invest in rest Getting quality shut-eye begins with a quality bed. Luckily, our specialist makers combine expert heritage with modern technology to craft truly superior mattresses, meaning we’re confident in giving you a comfortable night’s sleep. What’s more, we’ve been making mattresses since 1810, when we were the first the introduce feather-filled models to London. We haven’t stopped innovating since, and we’ve now got a mattress to suit every kind of sleeper, all of them hand-sprung for better support and tailored comfort thanks to individual springs housed in separate pockets. In short, when you move, your bedfellow doesn’t, making for uninterrupted sleep from night ‘til morning. Better still, they’re all hypo-allergenic, meaning everyday irritations such as allergens, bacteria and dust are minimised courtesy of sterilised natural latex, while all being made from strictly natural materials. There’s a size for every space – from single and double to king and super-king – across six collections that offer varying levels of cushioning, support and contouring according to individual needs. But the best bit? All our mattresses are guaranteed to last for at least 10 years, offering peace of mind as well as a perfect night’s sleep. Find a match Not sure how to pick the right mattress for your preferences? Fear not: our practical buying guide will help you select the right model for your sleeping pattern at every step of the process, supporting you through key considerations such as the springs, firmness, size and materials. Then, simply choose and snooze… Wallis Bed by Heal's Frame your mattresses A mattress without a bed is like artwork without a frame. Whether wooden or upholstered, we’ve got a selection of frames for every style, from four-posters to fill a generous space to divans with handy storage beneath. Crafted by British designer Russell Pinch, the Wallis Bed combines soft curves and crisp lines with a signature headboard that can be upholstered in a range of luxurious fabrics, while the Store Storabed, exclusive to Heal’s, features a clever fold-away design that saves on space and complements all décor. Browse and buy here. Chatsworth Wool Pillow by The Wool Room Pick a pillow Arguably, a pillow and duvet are just as important as your mattress and frame, as it’s what you lay your head on and cosy up beneath, night after night. Our soft and sumptuous sets are positively dreamy, stuffed with either British wool or duck- and goose-down, while there’s a tog of duvet to see you through every season. Alternatively, the Chatsworth Wool Pillow and Chatsworth Wool Duvet are luxurious picks, made by the fourth-generation of a wool-merchant family in Bradford and featuring only the very best fibre from around the world. You can rest easy knowing that the collection has been created with the highest quality, sustainability and ethics throughout the entire manufacturing process. Plus, all fillings are traceable back to both farm and sheep, sure to have you sleeping with a good conscience. Washed Linen Mustard by Heal's Change your sheets Made from soft and natural fibres, our range of designer linen is the finishing touch for dressing your bed, helping you to turn a bedroom into a boutique hotel. Our Washed Linen is carefully woven from European flax in northern Portugal, a centre of excellence for textiles, with every piece gloriously lightweight and beautifully soft; while our Velvet Quilt features seriously plush quilting and statement jewel tones, all hand-finished, for a classic bedspread that will endure for years to come. Column Table Lamp by Heal's Switch-up lighting Low and flattering, the right lighting can be just as conducive to quality sleep as a decent bed or otherwise, so consider a scheme that feels restful and relaxing. Layered is usually best: a combination of bedside lamps for late night reading and all important pillow talk; a statement floor lamp beside an occasional chair for added cosiness and depth in a dark corner; and dimmers for dialling up and down the ambience throughout the space as and when required. Scent Earth Diffuser by Tom Dixon Add some fragrance The power of scent is well-documented, especially when it comes its sleep-enhancing properties, so add a reed diffuser to distribute a constant yet subtle fragrance throughout the bedroom. Soft, understated scents are best for sleep, over rich, fruity alternatives, so choose something that enriches the air rather than overpowers it. We love this Scent Earth Diffuser from none other than self-taught British designer Tom Dixon, which is as stylish as it is effective, emitting an enigmatic concoction of mint, cedar and guaiac wood into the air. Three more tips 1 Add a finishing touch to your mattresses with a topper or protector to bolster comfort and extend protection. 2 Sleep is about visual comfort as well as physical comfort, so cosy up the space with a scatter cushion or three, best in interesting textures and patterns. 3 Finally, avoid the feeling of cold feet in the morning by adding a rug beneath a bed on bare floorboards – the cosier, the better.

In People’s Homes

How To Create A Harmonious Space For Home Working

While many return to the office this winter, others are continuing to work from home full-time, or are straddling the strange new hybrid combination. Whatever your working pattern, creating a space at home that is conducive to productivity and creativity when you are getting down to business is crucial, balancing both practicality and comfort while separating work from play. From investing in a quality desk to considering an ergonomic chair and getting your light just right, function is as important as form when it comes to choosing pieces that are as hard-working as you, while artwork and accessories add those finishing aesthetics to inspire during the longest, hardest days. Here, we show you how to create a harmonious space for home working, meaning you may never want to be out-of-office again. Orson Desk by De La Espada Invest in a desk It all starts with the desk. It’s a platform for productivity, whatever industry your career, and needs to accommodate your things and tasks accordingly. Consider the size – not just in terms of the space it needs to fit into, but how much room is beneath for your legs, and what it’s required to house – as your first deciding factor. Next, do you need built-in storage? Or will storage be a separate element? Then, you can choose a style and material that’s sympathetic to your home, plus any details. The covetable Orson Desk, conceived by Matthew Hilton and crafted by De La Espada, combines a cantilevered silhouette with a curve-edged top and an angular underside on a solid cast-iron frame to create a finely balanced design. Better still, three convenient angled drawers are concealed underneath a wide surface, while everything is made from walnut or oak and finished in Danish oil for a smooth and tactile feel. Comfortable and chic, it’s a timeless style that looks equally at home in contemporary and traditional spaces, and is certain to set the scene for solid work. 675 Chair by Case Choose your chair A chair needs to support your creativity throughout the day – and sometimes, even into the night – so it should cradle your body in all the right places while complementing your desk. You can’t go too far wrong with the 675 Chair by Case – awarded the prestigious Design Guild Mark Award – which was originally designed in 1952 by Robin Day and is arguably one of the most iconic pieces of contemporary design in the world. Working in collaboration with the Robin and Lucienne Design Foundation, Case reissued the chair in 2014 with an authentic design featuring the famous backrest placed at exactly the right angle and height to support the small of the back. Meanwhile, the singular walnut-veneered plywood curve is elegant and sophisticated, while being pioneering at the time. But the best bit? Two small touches have been added for contemporary workspaces: an injection-moulded plastic glide insert on the metal foot to avoid damaging the flooring; and a moulded seat pad for superior comfort under-bottom. Lars Open Shelving Unit by Says Who Sort your storage While your desk may store the likes of stationery and paperwork, a dedicated piece of furniture will accommodate even more, while displaying aesthetically-pleasing pieces at the same time (collectable tomes, objéts d’art, plants in vases, etc). Plump for a statement piece such as the Lars Open Shelving Unit designed by Danish studio Says Who exclusively for Heal’s: it comprises no less than eight storage areas within a striking asymmetric design with five open shelves and three concealed behind walnut veneer panels. Better still, it pairs equally as well with the matching Lars Desk as it does the Orson Desk in slick, modern spaces. Type 75 Desk Lamp by Anglepoise® Get your light just right We don’t know what’s worse: the harsh, overhead strip lighting of corporate offices or the dark and gloomy ‘mood’ lighting of members’ clubs. One of the benefits of working from home is getting your light right for the job at hand. Consider a task lamp for adjustable, directed light: the Paul Smith-designed Type 75 Desk Lamp by Anglepoise® is retro gloriously reinvented, with spring-loaded technology that allows light to be shone in any direction, while the futuristic Saber LED Desk Lamp is a modern masterpiece, featuring energy-saving LED modules that can be directed wherever they’re needed. Space at a premium? Choose a floor lamp with an adjustable arm that can be positioned accordingly over your desk: the Birdy Swing Floor Lamp by Northern is just the thing with strong, geometric looks and a smooth, rotating axis. Easy to use and beautiful to look at. Paper Collective Inspire with artwork Fill your home office or working nook with artwork to motivate you during particularly tricky jobs or tiresome deadlines. With inspiration taken from around the world – bringing joyful colour, abstract pattern and nomadic warmth into your home – our expert curation of artwork from Paper Collective is as eclectic as it is evocative. Idea: why not lean your artwork against a wall or display on a piece of furniture rather than hang for something a little different? Remember to switch things up on occasion – whether your groupings or pieces – to keep things fresh and interesting. There are plenty of designers, artists and illustrators to choose from. Undercover 3 more ideas 1 That first-day-back-at-school feeling of using new stationery never goes away. Tap into your inner child with a grown-up take on notebooks and pencil cases beautifully crafted in leather by British artisans from Undercover. 2 It’s been proven that plants are conducive to health and wellbeing – releasing oxygen and reducing carbon dioxide – while their lushness brings colour and depth to interiors. The Hourglass Plant Pot by ferm LIVING – available in three sizes – is perfect for housing yours. 3 Every office needs a good clock – ensuring you take breaks when you need them and log-off when the day is done. From a classic circular shape by Newgate – the Mr Clarke is our pick – to an abstract design by Vitra (see Flock of Butterflies), there’s something for every taste and space.

In People’s Homes

Get Ready For Guests

It’s finally time to throw open the doors to entertain friends and family again. Whether they’re visiting from near or far, nothing welcomes loved ones in from the cold quite like a house filled with festive cheer, from a tree twinkling with fairy lights to a mantlepiece festooned with lush foliage and a table bedecked with sparkling treasure. When it comes to hosting at Christmas, it’s all about creating comfort and joy, while making guests feel right at home. Here, we round-up the small refreshes and little touches that can make a big difference, from fluffy towels to five-star bedlinen and fold-out sofa-beds. But be warned: nearest and dearest may never want to leave… Christina Lundsteen Paula Cushion, Christina Lundsteen Bolster Pink, Flows Rug Multi by Linie Design, Sheepskin Rug Large Long Wool by Nature’s Collection, Washed Linen Bed Linen Cinnamon by Heal’s, Washed Linen Bed Linen Mustard by Heal’s, Utility Footstool Large Vintage Cognac Leather Lacquered Oak Frame by Fogia, Barba Armchair Karakorum by Fogia, Oswald Sofa Bed by Heal’s, 9602 Floor Lamp by Gubi, Brew Tray by Tom Dixon, Nordic Bistro Mug by Broste Copenhagen, Warm White 480 LED Indoor or Outdoor Micro Lights Copper Cable by Noma, Deko Decorations Dusky Pink Set of 6 by Broste Copenhagen Offer a turn-down service Good times can only be enjoyed after good sleep. Which is why it’s crucial to create a restful space where guests can recharge and reclaim a little shut-eye between festivities. For those who don’t have a spare-room, a sofa-bed can be a smart way to maximise space and accommodate guests, styled-up with cushions by day and folded-out with bedding by night. The smart Oswald, pictured, quickly and easily converts into a king-size bed while featuring hidden storage for stashing away luggage and keeping multi-functional spaces free of clutter. For extra style (and added comfort), swap out old sheets with crisp new bedding in seasonal colours and patterns, and layer with cosy throws in soft and textured materials. Matera Large Corner Sofa by Heal’s, Pearl White Soup Bowl by Costa Nova, The Voice Within 01 Print from Mae Studio by Paper Collective, Christina Lundsteen Abigail Cushion, Christina Lundsteen Carla Cushion, Edinburgh Weavers Circles Cushion, Optical Cushion Ocre by Niki Jones, Sheepskin Rug Large Long Wool by Nature’s Company, Sheepskin Rug Small Long Wool by Nature’s Company Spruce-up the sofa A scattering of new cushions can really freshen up your sofa for visiting friends, adding colour, interest and depth. But think about a wintery palette of warm and toasty tones rather than clichéd shades and motifs for the coolest way to change things up. Here, we’ve layered the Matera sofa with luxurious cushions featuring rich reds, earthy yellows and icy blues that complement the ochre tones of the furniture. With interesting patterns from innovative designers, they provide a conversation-starter over Christmas, too. Round Bud Vase by Heal’s, Waffle Towel Charcoal by Heal’s, Spa Towel White by Heal’s, Ripple Clear Carafe by ferm LIVING, Ripple Smoked Grey Tumbler Glass Set of 4 by ferm LIVINGCreate a ‘spa-throom’ A few easy updates can transform your bathroom into a spa-like oasis your guests can retreat to away from the hustle and bustle of the house. Stock-up on quality towels in soothing shades and luxurious textures – our pick are these for all the luxury of a five-star stay – together with high-end soaps for a spot of pampering and a designer diffuser to make the whole room smell wonderful. Everyone will be fighting for the bathroom. Massimo Bobble Vase by Abigail Ahern, Botanicals Winter Spice Brick Candle by Heal’s, Winter Spice Tall Pillar Candle with Botanicals by Heal’s, Pillar Candle by Heal’s, ‘Christmasify’ a corner Even if you’re not going all-out with a tree and all the trimmings, you can still help guests to feel cosy and festive, even in the most compact of spaces. Style up a single corner instead to add a touch of sparkle to a space: a sideboard or a mantlepiece can provide a platform for decorative touches while creating a focal point in any room. Simply add a collection of candles – varying heights create interest – and a statement vase filled with natural foliage foraged from the garden, plus a few tree decorations here and there. A tangle of fairy lights is a nice touch, too, while a smattering of tealights finishes things off. The more corners you can create, the merrier. Gift your guests Create boutique hotel vibes from the comfort of home with a gift or two for guests left at the end of their bed: consider the Bitter Orange & Cassis Dusk Candle for creating a festive scent; the Milk Chocolate Stirrer for making a late-night cup of cocoa; and the Lambswool Hot Water Bottle for popping between the sheets. It’s the details that make a stay, whether at a hotel or in the home of a good friend, so pick something you know they’ll love to make them feel truly special. Three more tips 1 Invest in a coat rack and shoe tidy ahead of the holidays to keep your hallway sleek and streamlined. First impressions count, so ensure your reception makes an entrance, even when you’ve got a full house. 2 Stock-up on games for rainy days during family stays. The collection from Printworks, including Backgammon and Yatzy, is so smart you won’t want to stash it away. 3 Hang a wreath on the front door and festoon it with our decorations. It sounds simple, but it’s the first thing guest will see as they arrive, so give them a sign of things to come with a festive flourish that says: ‘home for Christmas.’

In People’s Homes

How To Get Your Light Just Right This Autumn

We’re proud to host our very own Festival of Light every autumn, celebrated this year from 10 to 31 October, to showcase the world’s most exquisite lighting brands and designers. Not only that, but it coincides with the changing of the seasons, when the days get shorter and the evenings get darker. After a long, hot summer, the annual event provides a chance to cosy up and hunker down at home, and our seventh lighting extravaganza is sure to help you get your light just right. Here, our lighting buyer Claire Anstey rounds-up the brightest ideas for autumnal lighting, whether you’re looking for focus and concentration in a home office, or rest and relaxation in a living room. It’s time to switch it up. Anglepoise® Original 1227™ Desk Lamp National Trust Sage Working from home As we continue to straddle working from home and going into the office, the spaces we’ve carved out for getting down to business remain crucial, whether it’s a dedicated office or a zoned corner. But while the light is bright and beautiful during the summer months – with evenings that seemingly stretch into eternity – autumn brings with it noticeably darker days that require a more considered approach. Claire says: “Invest in a quality desk lamp that inspires creativity and productivity throughout the working day – even when it’s dull and gloomy outside. Choose something that’s beautiful to look as well as boasting quality lighting for all-important tasks – plus, a flattering glow on a Zoom or Teams meeting can only be a good thing! For a timeless style, you can’t go wrong with a classic Anglepoise® Original 1227™ Desk Lamp, especially when it’s been given a contemporary spin in a recent collaboration with the National Trust. Neat and sleek, it’s art for your desk, while featuring an iconic shade that angles light in any direction.” Claire adds: “If space is at a premium, shop smart by selecting a floor lamp that doubles as a desk lamp, such as the mid-century Milton Floor Lamp for modern and minimalist spaces.” Manhattan Table Lamp Natural Curling up on the sofa Your next big box-set binge calling? It’s autumn: of course it is. Advises Claire: “When it comes to curling up in the living room over the coming months, it’s all about layering your lighting for a cosy feel, incorporating a mixture of different types to cater to all activities and atmospheres. Ceiling and wall lights will brighten the whole lounge when you’re doing something other than resting or relaxing – reading and writing, or playing with the kids – while floor lamps and table lamps will create ambience throughout the area for entertaining or simply kicking-back and chilling-out. The combination of everything together will create a collective glow while making a room feel interior-designed with plenty of interest and polish. This season, it’s all about sustainable style with natural materials and textures, so why not opt for our Manhattan Table Lamp with a natural stone base and a linen shade? Its dimmer switch means you can dial up or down the lighting accordingly. Plump for a pair or mix-and-match with other styles for an eclectic look. Elsewhere, our Globe Wall Light casts a warm, ethereal glow across a space without being harsh or unflattering, its opaque glass, brass detail and marble finish adding elegance.” Tala Knuckle Table Lamp with Sphere IV Bulb Winding down before bedtime Heading to bed with a warm cup of cocoa and a good book doesn’t necessarily mean a good night’s sleep. Claire explains: “Warm lighting is better for winding down just before you’re about to go to bed as blue lighting interferes with the circadian rhythm – the natural process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle – and can keep you awake. With this in mind, I’d suggest a combination of dimmable table and wall lights to soothe you to sleep and help you drift of, avoiding any distractions such as the TV, your phone or tablet. Tala – the London design studio – crafts bulbs that feature a ‘dim-to-warm’ function. This means that when you dim them the light becomes warmer. Perfect for catching those zzzs. The Tala Knuckle Table Lamp with Sphere IV Bulb is a brilliant choice for the bedside table with a compact design and an energy-saving bulb that mimics natural light sources with an American oak base that adds a stylish accent.” Three more bright ideas 1 Choose bulbs with a warm temperature and colour. This is measured in kelvins: the lower the number, the warmer the bulb. Just remember to keep the colour of the bulb consistent in any given room for cohesion. 2 Make even more of natural light during the darker months rather than blocking it out with heavy curtains. Not only does it increase your health and wellbeing, but it strengthens your connection to the outside world. Add cleverly positioned mirrors to bounce it around. 3 Finally, don’t underestimate the drama of candlelight to increase the cosiness of a space. A flickering candle can set the scene for a fabulous bath or dinner. Click here to put ideas into action in our Festival of Light.