This is the first time I’ve visited on a Friday and the overall feeling was crisp and calm. The halls looked smarter than on previous occasions and the layout seemed more inviting. Exhibiting countries were awarded larger stands and as a result you got a real feel for each nation’s contribution to the design process over the last 12 months. There were two things that struck me whilst wandering the hall; the rise of simple elegant design, and an emphasis on surface design rather than architectural design. Simple Elegant Design Lean Collection – Frank Flavell for & Then Design It’s one of those things you see and you can’t...

Sugar and spice and all things nice, that’s what little girls like. And big girls. Boys too, for that matter.  The craze for cupcakes has been going on for some time now. Those fanciful concoctions of sponge and icing are easy on the eye as well as on the tastebuds. Our appetite for all things sugary needn’t end with our bellies. Sweeten up your interiors with an assortment of ice cream colours. Add a generous dose of nostalgia. Mix thoroughly. Pretty as a picture and much better for your teeth. This is a high octane approach to decorating, which throws austerity and reserve out of the window. It’s sunshine and birdsong, whimsy and...