Y'a Pas Le Feu Au Lac

How cool are these little mushroom shaped wooden bowls! They are from Y'a Pas Le Feu Au Lac, a team of designers who all share a passion of wood and it's origins. They use a mixture of different techniques and styles to create a collection full of stunning wooden objects that really push the boundaries of what is possible with this ever flexible material. I am especially taken with these Les Montogolfiére bowls, originally inspired by hot air balloons, they have such a playful and almost child-like quality too them that you just can't resist. Another range that stands out for me is Perrette, inspired by old wooden buckets and milk cans from the farms in Upper Jura these functional and simple containers are perfect for everyday use. Just like the Les Montogolfiére bowls, they are so fun and playful and add a little something to extra to the home. Browse through Y'a Pas Le Feu Au Lac's whole collection here.

Sophie xo

Copper Pendant - Moroccan Style

Everybody has to love a cheeky little bit of Moroccan in their home. Whether it be a simple lantern in the corner or an unnatural amount of pom poms – the moroccan theme (for me) is one of those trends that's just works on so many levels. I think it's a mix of the exotic taste it brings to mind and...well growing up watching Aladdin 5 times a week that make me love it so much. Which is why I am so taken with these copper pendants I spotted on Terrain. All the brass shades are handmade, using traditional techniques. Each one is hammered and etched into with intricate patterns, which create a controversial and stunning approach to the use of shadow. I love it when lighting not only lights up a room but also plays with shadows, it creates atmosphere and a tony bit of drama. My favourite is probably the Pin Dot teardrop version, the long body and small pin pricks of light create a beautiful, subtle approach to lighting. Love them!

Sophie xo

Pigeon Toe - dot mug

As I'm sure you are aware by now I have an uncontrollable addiction to tea. I rely on it to wake me up, get me through the day and send me too sleep. So as you can imagine I have a pretty hefty collection of mugs and am very protective over them. If someone uses my special mug (my flatmates can vouch for this) I get pretty grumpy. And I have just spotted my new dream addition to the collection, not one but a whole set. I say dream addition because they are $44 each...and I definitely don't have that kind of dough at present. These classic white mugs are of simple design, a good sturdy shape and fit snuggly into you palm. The hidden spot of colour which is revealed upon drinking is the quirky little feature that make them exciting and unique. They would be perfect as a set of six just for everyday use, each one in a different colour (also available in espresso.) They are from Pigeon Toe, my new favourite haunt for cute little ceramic pieces, that are packed full with character and are unique little additions to the home. Another one of my favourites is their optimist tumbler, perfect when your feeling a bit grumpy and need a lift! Browse their whole range here.

Sophie xo

Cork board map

It's official. Winter is most definitely here. Today I was freezing my butt off on a train – and was not loving it. Usually I get really excited for winter, Christmas is on it's way, I can bust out my awesome bobble hat and tea tastes just that bit better. But this year I am already looking at holidays, somewhere nice and warm for me to thaw out a little. I fancy going somewhere new so I can explore a little and soak up some culture. I have always been a little unproductive when it comes to trying new places. I try really hard to force myself too but just end up going on another beach holiday...or not going at all and eating chocolate biscuits for a week. I'm thinking maybe if I got this cool cork mappin board it would force me to travel. If you pop a pin in every time you go somewhere, those with wanderlust will soon fill theirs up. Whereas I would stare at it feeling a bit guilty. I found this one on Luckies, when I have the space on my walls this will be happening. Simply to stop me from being lazy!

Sophie xo

Jane Foster Design

Ohhh it doesn't get more beautiful than screen printed, super cute cushions with animals on. I don't think there are many things that make me squeal like a 5 years old like that combination does. Inspired by a mixture of scandinavian design and the early years of Marimekko, Jane Foster design is a happy little studio set in her eco home. In her own words her designs “appeal to children and adults alike” which is spot on! I love her happy, bold pattern making that are the perfect addition too a lighthearted home. My favourites have to be the rabbit cushions. I love the shape and they look so cuddely – plus they have super cute lil' faces! I find that with all her pieces you really get a strong scandinavian vibe – one of the top trends for this year- so get on board. Have a browse of the whole range here!

Sophie xo

Ps: How cute are the santas?!

PANON® Dairy - Peter Gregson Studio

I am one of those people who can never get enough dairy in my life. Cheese, milk, cream (with cake on the side) youghurt – the list is long. I think it's an addiction...I should probably stop. But as a dairy lover, this packaging for PANON® dairy is just awe-some. From Peter Gregson Studio the packaging and overall ID for PANON® has been redesigned into this graphical, edgy style. Inspired by embroidery the studio say this about the work “We saw this task as an opportunity to go back to the “basics” both in design and tradition.” Perfectly said! Traditional, wholesome design with milk inside!

Sophie xo

Kelly Caruso Furniture

I have had my eye on Kelly Caruso's work for a few weeks now, her work is so refreshing and exciting. She designs furniture with a strong recycled materials theme throughout, and I love seeing how raw the materials that she uses are. One of her pieces is the recycled pendants, made using mixed paper disks of a wonderful avocado green. Each light has a unique quality and the organic nature of the materials is reflected in the design. Another design is the Stol Chair, a walnut base covered in a Erin Curry fabric. I love the mildly 70's influence too the whole Stol range but it really shows itself in the chair. Caruso has already won several design awards, so keep your eye on this one people!!

Sophie xo

Happy Pills - Sweet Shop Barcelona

As winter sets in the standard '...I need a holiday' Is starting to get hold of me. I need a little bit of sun in my life, and have my heart set on Barcelona. I went there when I was a kid and would love to go back and soon! And if my need for sun wasn't enough, I have also spotted probably one of the best sweet shop concepts ever. Designed by Studio M and called Happy Pills, this sweet shop has some serious swag. Clean, concise and a strict clinical style put this shop in a whole other realm. The hospital theme runs throughout from the sweets they served to their brilliant packaging. Check it out here, enjoy!

Sophie xo

Bina Baitel Studio

I have always fancied myself to have one of those houses where all the furniture is a piece of art, the walls are white and each piece has an exciting and detailed process behind it. The actuality of living in a house like that would probably drive me crazy! Imagine if you got chocolate on the sofa... shudder. The idea itself is a nice one though, so whenever I see a piece that can go into my 'dream art gallery house' I like to think I could make it happen. Designer, Bina Baitel creates piece which are just perfect for the fantasy gallery house, from tables to doors I'm sorted. Each piece has a distinct designer quality, which can only be found with hundreds of design hours being loving spent on each decision. My favourite piece is the Grimm lamp/mirror, the perfect set up to do your hair in. The paint splash shape that is used throughout the collection is almost like a signature, being used in several design. I am also a pretty taken by Tarah, it's a versatile piece which can be used for seating, a table or for display, but overall it's that gold and black colour way that I love!

Sophie xo

Monkey Biz

First off, sorry for being a bit rubbish this week! My internet has been going crazy and has decided to go on holiday! I have also been hit with a full on snotty nose and sore throat. I want nothing more right now that to curl up in my bed and sleep – essentially exactly what i'm doing right now minus the sleep part! So all in all a pretty rubbish week for me! I wanted to share a little company I found out about called Monkey Biz, a none profit organization that sell stunning hand made beaded animals that put such a stupid massive grin on my face, I definitely feel better. Each animal is unique and is made in South Africa, they help to support the community and hundreds of artists too support their families. I love these cute little critters and the idea that each and every one has had hours of love and care put into it. Find out more here.

Sophie xo

Cats let nothing darken their roar - 2013 Calendar

I don't care if it's only October, I am already buying my new diary for next year! I have been perusing various outlets for my stationary for next year and am thoroughly enjoying the process. But my wall calendar is so sorted. I think I have blogged about 'Cats let nothing darken their roar' calendars before, but they have just released their 2013 edition and mine is in the shopping cart ready! Each month is a witty phrase, event or senario, with the month imbedded in each. First designed in 2005 by Noa Bembibre these calendars have become more imaginative and popular with each year. I think my favourite page from this year is April, A practical Kitten.

Sophie xo

Licorice Rope Rainbow Pendant - Land of Nod

Ohhh I am just so so so in love with this pendant! It's times like this that I hate living in a rented house, if I didn't this would up on my ceiling faster than I can type! I'm not even sure why I'm so drawn too it, maybe it's that rainbow array of colours, the simplicity of those bare bulbs or because it's called Licorice Rope Rainbow Pendant...I don't know! This little number is an exclusive at Land of Nod (who I have mentioned many times before for all your kiddies room needs) it features 6 textiles cords in red, yellow, green, blue, turquoise and orange. I think it would look brilliant in a kitchen or living area, suspended over a dining table or island. It's fun, playful and just plain cool! Is it sad that I'm actually grinning whilst looking at it? Maybe a little.

Sophie xo

Lauren Markley Jewellery

I love a little bit of quirky jewellery, anything that shows a bit of individuality and creativity can create a whole other level to your style. So when I saw Lauren Markley's collection I started to drool a little. The mixture of materials, techniques and styles create a stunning range of pieces. You get the feeling that she is inspired by raw materials and the industrial style. Each piece she creates is individual and are made too order. My particular favourite's are the range where she uses coloured thread in knots. The smooth matte surface combined with the bumpy texture of the thread is a feast for the eyes. Browse her website here or her Etsy shop.

Sophie xo

Ombre Obsession ... Pastel tumblers

Like most of the population, I still have a unrelenting obsession with the ombre revolution! I don't care if it was fashionable last season, and that you can't go anywhere without it being in your face, I still really love it! I can't and won't get over it any time soon. I mean just look at these beautiful pastel tumblers I spotted on Etsy....what exactly is not to love?! They are a set of four drinking glasses that make up the perfect day dream drinking attire. They have a subtle, cheeky gold rim to them which adds just that little touch of retro elegance. Coming in four pastel shades, baby blue, peachy pink, minty green and a lemon yellow, they are completely unique. They would be perfect for pretty much any occasion...I want them now! However, I have found something I don't like about them...they are vintage...and sold out. Hmph.

Sophie xo

West Elm - Glass Blow Range

I can remember when I was about 10 years old I went on a school trip to the Isle of Wight, a little island just off the coast of Portsmouth. For those who have never heard of it, it's most famous for it's chalk hills and massive needle shaped rocks emerging from the sea – it probably sounds cooler than it is. Another thing that's famous there is their glasswork, I remember we went to a glass blowing factory and I was completely fascinated by the technique. Never have I seen that technique used so uniquely as with this Glass Blown range I spotted on WestElm. The use of a metal wire frame and the hand blown glass, create a dimpled effect which is just stunning. It's kind of like a bubble that's about to pop any second. These huge pendants come in a round ball shape and a long thin cylinder shape, personally I feel that the ball looks more natural and effective. It would be perfect in a kitchen or a set of 2 or 3 in a hallway. The best bit is that because they are hand blown each one is ever so slightly different.

Sophie xo

Dominic Wilcox - No place like home GPS shoes

Let's be honest, we have all got lost trying to get home once in our life. Whether it be a new area you aren’t used too, exploring your surrounding and just getting lost or being a little worse for wares and just plain forgetting the way home. Taking inspiration from The Wizard of Oz, Artist Dominic Wilcox has designed and created these a-ma-zing shoes which guide you home. With an imbedded GPS system. The left shoe points you in the right direction and the right shows how far you have too go. Named 'No place like home' these genius little shoes took the recent London Design Festival by storm. I'm not a gadget geek, but even I want a pair of these bad boys! Now I just need to wait till they come in cute heel format.

Sophie xo