Latest news with #homewares
Telegraph
5 hours ago
- Telegraph
The homewares that are really worth buying on holiday (and how to get them back)
As glorious and relaxing as a holiday can be, it's always all in the moment – swapping the weather, atmosphere and food for a suitcase full of dirty laundry on arriving back home makes certain of that. But what can transport you back to that charming villa or evoke that magical sunset is a carefully chosen souvenir; perhaps a mug from which to drink your morning coffee, or a platter to serve a salad on. The Continent spoils us for choice: there are vintage markets for magpies, artist studios, and unique boutiques filled with local wares guaranteed to nudge your luggage into the overweight category. 'I love doing a little research on the surrounding villages before flying,' says Louise Roe, a fashion journalist and founder of homewares brand Sharland England. 'Sometimes the location button on Instagram can lead to some genius finds, like flea markets and tiny antique shops.' Roe isn't alone in her exploration off the beaten track. Here, designers and tastemakers share where they find the most original homewares, from Provence to Portugal, for the perfect 'Where did you get that?' keepsake. Skip to: Provence The Algarve Puglia Mallorca Kefalonia Provence 'If you're into pottery and tableware, Provence is the place to come,' says Sydney Piercey, a Londoner who relocated to the south of France five years ago and recently launched Les Six, an online shop and sourcing service specialising in antique French homewares. She suggests visiting brocantes (flea markets) in the towns of Aubagne, Biot and Vallauris, while Libs Lewis, founder of the Cotswold homeware shop Domestic Science, has a soft spot for the fair at Barjac (August 13–17) and the Saturday market at Uzès. Check the websites and for a definitive guide to what's happening around where you are staying. Driving? This is the time to look out for cumbersome pieces which are usually much pricier in the UK, such as wrought-iron garden furniture, ornate benches, mortars and baskets. Piercey used to bring back antique chopping boards and small pots, wrapped in clothes, in her suitcase. Arriving at a market early is key – around 8am is best – and bring cash, as most sellers prefer it and may be more willing to negotiate if you have it. Lewis loves a rummage: 'The best finds are often half-hidden or stacked underneath something else,' she says. If you fall in love with a piece of furniture that you can't transport home with you, ask the dealer if they can recommend a shipping service, or help with shipping the piece. If scouring markets isn't your thing, make a beeline for the supermarkets instead. That's where Lewis picks up Le Petit Marseillais soaps and lemon- or cassis-flavoured syrups; in Monoprix, she rates its men's shirts, pyjamas and linen jackets. 'It's the everyday essentials that the French just seem to do better,' she says. Get the look at home The Algarve The Faro district can be awash with questionable cork shoes, cork handbags, cork hats…you get the idea. But if you know where to look, you can come home with distinctive additions to your kitchen table. Traditionally glazed terracotta pieces are sturdy yet charming, offering remarkably good value, and as they come in myriad shapes and sizes, they make for perfect dip bowls and baking trays. Don't discount small department stores, as these often boast the most diverse selection. Charlotte Bird, founder of travel PR agency Passaro, remembers visiting Porches Pottery, which is famed for its hand-painted jugs and salad bowls. 'I grew up going to the shop with my family and always loved seeing the ladies sitting at their stations painting the bits of pottery in front of me,' says Bird. Content creator Catarina Mira, who is from the Algarve but now lives in London, always receives lots of compliments on her collection of bowls and serving platters bought from the shop Paraiso in Raposeira. These are a snip compared to UK prices, and she rates its wicker pieces too: 'They're light, easy to pack, and feel special without being fussy.' Local markets tend to be food-centric, so Mira suggests looking up Artists & Fleas Algarve on Facebook for the best selection of vintage ceramics, second-hand furniture and unexpected gems. Then, on the second Monday of the month, the Mercado de Rua de Algoz is a must: 'It's very local, not touristy at all, and leans more toward flea/vintage rather than polished craft stalls – ideal if you're looking for interiors rather than souvenirs,' says Mira. Get the look at home Puglia For ceramics aficionados, a trip to Puglia is not unlike being a child in a sweet shop. Colourful splatterware pieces (also referred to as speckle) line the shelves of many a small boutique. You can't go wrong with bundling a pretty jar of (carefully wrapped) olive oil for your kitchen worktop, and then refilling it. But for Natalie Sytner, the founder of Bettina Ceramica, whose mother is from the region, it's the one-off finds which she cherishes the most. 'It's always wonderful to come home with pieces that not everyone will have,' she says. Lucky, then, that the region has some of the best antiques markets: in Lecce, the market around the Piazza Libertini is on the last Sunday of every month, while in Ostuni, the Antiquaria fair on the second Sunday of every month delivers with unique treasures. Louise Roe can't resist hand-embroidered tablecloths and linens which have undoubtedly enjoyed a past life, and looks out for miniature works of art. 'Sometimes there's a little oil painting on a board – the size of a postcard, so perfect for the suitcase home – and I'll then search for the perfect frame separately,' she says. 'These are one-of-a-kind pieces that will always remind you of that beautiful trip.' Get the look at home Mallorca Who doesn't want to bottle the essence of the Balaerics and bring a little back home with them? In her own way, the accessories designer Sandra Barrio Gonzalez does just that, raiding Mallorca's markets for sobrasada (spreadable cured sausage), homemade honey, ensaimadas (traditional pastries) and olives and cheeses. Her hotspots? 'The Sineu Market and Esporles Market, which are much more local than touristy,' says the Barceloni, who now lives in north London. Nestled among these foodstuffs are often very reasonably priced ceramics, such as painted bowls and a perfect gift for your carry-on: a ceramic grater. Add a flavoured oil and you have the ultimate thank you for whoever has been minding your pets or watering your plants. Spanish markets also have a plentiful supply of woven pieces which make their way over from northern Africa, so you can pick up a basket bag or a rustic lampshade for a song. Barrio Gonzalez knows her way around the island through its best shops: Manacor has Can Garanya, a century-old business with three boutiques selling everything from espadrilles to rugs. Algaida, just outside of Palma, is home to Gordiola Vidrios, an esteemed glass-blowing company founded 300 years ago. 'Because I'm obsessed with glass, it's always a stop,' she says. Get the look at home Kefalonia Coming home imbued with vitamin D and a newfound appreciation for feta cheese are the usual spoils from the sleepy Greek islands. But for the York-based content creator, Lisa Dawson, it's the streets of Argostoli in Kefalonia where she has discovered some of her most-loved pieces. 'There are many ceramic shops where individual artisans and makers have shelves with pieces that you can buy,' she says. 'Some of these are huge – think big platters and extra-large vessels – but they'll ship them if you ask. Bypass the standard tourist pottery and look for unique pieces from these studios,' she advises. The Greeks are also onto a winner with small textiles – 11 years on from my honeymoon, my wash bag is still going strong, and is pretty as well as practical. Local shops also specialise in oil-rich skincare which comes beautifully packaged, so add a hand cream or two to elevate your basins back home. Get the look at home
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Bunnings brings back popular $22.50 item after selling out in just HOURS: 'OMG I need them all'
Bunnings Warehouse is bringing back a wildly popular $22.50 item after previously selling out within hours of hitting shelves. The Bluey garden gnomes are making a comeback, along with three new additions - Gerald and Bride and Groom Gnomes - which are expected to fly off shelves. After a huge success last year, fan-favourite characters Hecuba, Tony, Jeremy and Meditation Gnomes are back on shelves - with many shoppers eager to get their hands on the sought-after ceramics. 'We're thrilled to bring another slice of Bluey's world into homes across Australia - this time with our Bluey-inspired kids' homewares range, and of course, the much-loved Bluey gnomes,' Bunnings general manager marketing Justine Mills said. 'It's clear how much fans connect with the show given how quickly last year's Bluey gnomes flew off the shelves. 'We know they will be eager to build on their collections, and we're excited to see how customers respond to our new range and in-store activities... Bluey and Bunnings couldn't stay apart - the duo just works.' The gnomes sparked a frenzy last year - with shoppers revealing they missed out on them as they had already been snapped up by the time they got to the store. They were so popular that Bunnings was forced to introduce a purchase limit, allowing customers to buy only four gnomes per transaction. Fans have already expressed their excitement over the return of the gnomes, with one mum revealing: 'Wow this is going to cost me a fortune - I want them all.' For families looking for a mid-winter makeover, homewares from Bluey and Bingo's bedroom will be available in real life products in-store and online. From the iconic watermelon rug to light-up paper lanterns and glow-in-the-dark stickers, Bunnings is stocking everything you need to transform your kid's space with a Bluey twist. The warehouse giant has joined forces with BBC Studios and Ludo Studio again to unveil an adorable Bluey range, with Hammerbarn branded socks, key rings, bucket hat and children's tote bag available across all stores. 'Partnering with Bunnings once more allows us to deliver fresh, engaging experiences that celebrate Bluey's quintessential Aussie-ness and connect deeply with fans,' BBC Studios Australia & New Zealand, Director of Brands & Licensing, Scott Modra said. 'This partnership continues to resonate so strongly with families, and it's been incredible to see how Bluey has become part of the everyday language and play of kids across the country. 'From the gnomes to the new bedroom range, this collaboration is all about sparking imagination and fun - and we can't wait to see how fans embrace it this year.' From Wednesday, July 30, Bunnings stores across Australia will launch DIY activities and a scavenger hunt for families to enjoy - plus new Bluey products and Hammerbarn merchandise - inspired by the show's much-loved hardware store.
Daily Mail
22-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Why Kmart Australia's $89 'dupe' of a $1,000 buy is causing a huge stir
Shoppers are racing to Kmart to get their hands on the retailer's newest must-have homewares before they completely sell out. However, it's one particular coffee table that has caused the biggest stir online as it looks almost identical to a $999 designer version - but will only set you back $89. The Charles Coffee Table has just landed online and the ultra-modern piece features a sculptural disk-style top perched on bold, rounded legs. Its unique look is almost indistinguishable from the high-end Bon Coffee Table from luxe Aussie furniture brand James Lane. But while the James Lane version comes with a jaw-dropping price tag of $999, Kmart's dupe comes in at $910 less. And it's not the only version out there. Temple & Webster also stock a similar design for $600, while Fantastic Furniture's lookalike will set you back $599. The reason fans are finding the budget buy so appealing starts with its sleek whitewashed finish and bulbous 'bowling ball' legs give it a designer edge. With a compact size of 70cm in diameter and 28cm high, it's the perfect statement piece for smaller living spaces or minimalist interiors. Its unique look is almost indistinguishable from the high-end Bon Coffee Table from luxe Aussie furniture brand James Lane, which retails for $999 'Ok but rounded edges are perfect for kids,' one fan commented. 'Just saw a heap of these at my local Kmart yesterday,' another informed. 'It's so cute! But it's tiny,' a cautious shopper added. 'I want one so bad just for the legs.' The table is part of Kmart's Anko range, which has quickly become synonymous with trendy, affordable home styling. 'Fast furniture it will be Landfill in 12mths. Buy quality and buy responsibly,' one wrote, in favour of investment pieces. And while it's not handcrafted from mango wood like the James Lane original, most other shoppers have been quick to overlook that when the dupe looks as good as it does. If you're hoping to snap one up, now might be the time as stock is already dwindling online. However your best bet is to call your local store and cross your fingers. 'Kmart can't keep up with the demand for all this new stock. It's either not in all stores or sold out immediately,' said another of the coffee table's instant popularity. If you do miss out, there is still a silver lining. The matching Charles Bedside Tables, featuring the same sculptural legs and chic whitewash finish, are also online and selling for just $39.
News.com.au
18-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- News.com.au
‘Here to stay': Kmart responds to divisive homewares trend
It's a colour that can instantly reveal someone's age – but despite it's confronting ability to expose us, one of Australia's biggest retailers said it's not going anywhere. 'Millennial green' is a recently coined term which refers to the trend of using various shades of muted, earthy greens in interior design, particularly among those aged 29 to 44 years old. While undoubtedly popular, the colour's apparent power to out those in the millennial age group, has proved unsavoury among some online. After being brutally labelled 'the new sad beige' by several critics on TikTok, some have sworn off the trendy colour – but now Kmart has weighed in on the debate, declaring it is 'here to stay'. Speaking at a showing of the budget retailer's new homewares range, buyer Nic Holmes said green – particularly the sage shade – was a trend that was going nowhere anytime soon. 'Millennial green is here to stay. I fall into the category where everyone loves it, and I look around my house and think, 'ohh, I've got a lot of green',' the long-running Kmart staffer told 'The design team, who are currently working two seasons ahead in 2027, are still seeing green introduced and carrying on.' Because of this, the store's 2025 August living range, designed to help 'Australians refresh their homes at everyday low prices', has 'millennial green' wove through every category, from homewares to kitchen accessories. The trendy hue even has a starring moment in Kmart's new 'expandable' range, with a green lounge chair that comes in a compact box before expanding once opened. Priced at $169, the Como Chenille Lounge Chair only recently hit stores, but it's already proving incredibly popular. 'Run to Kmart for this new release,' one TikTok user declared in a video. As another, who showed how you could use three of them to make a couch, described the item as a 'good little buy'. 'They're soooo comfortable! Got mine last night,' one raved in the comments section. 'You're kiddddding these are Kmart?!' shared another. As one added: 'Obsessed!' Mr Holmes also shared his tips on styling with the colour, explaining that to nail the green trend, it was 'all about layering different tones of green'. 'This trend is not going to go anywhere because the colour is just too versatile,' he shared. 'We call it the new neutral, so if you're a neutral cream customer, and you introduce the sage greens to your home, the palettes work so well together. 'The exciting thing for me is that it is going to be forecast as continuing to grow, it's going to explode.' Kmart said the expanded furniture offering is a 'major highlight this season', adding that it features exciting new innovations that have been compressed to make it 'easier than ever to shop large furniture'. 'Key pieces include the ever-popular Nate Range which has now been extended and reimagined in black with slatted panelling and lozenge shapes,' a spokesperson said. 'There's also the Charles Cabinet ($89) with bold ball feet and arched panels and additional items like the Wave Bedhead ($139) and the Mali Lounge Chair ($179), are expected to be high-impact hero items for customers.'
Daily Mail
07-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Kmart's new $14 drop is the ultimate alternative for 'must-have' designer versions: 'Looks expensive'
Shoppers are racing to get their hands on Kmart's newest homewares release - and this time it's all about the drinks trolley. The retail giant has dropped a range of chic octagon-shaped glassware that's already sending fans into a frenzy, with many calling it a perfect dupe for luxury European brands. The Octagon Hiball Glasses and Octagon Tumbler Glasses retail for just $14 for a pack of six and feature a unique faceted design that gives everyday glassware a modern, sophisticated twist. The range is made from soda lime glass and is dishwasher safe, making it both stylish and practical. 'The most beautiful glasses I've ever seen - 10/10,' one shopper raved. 'My jaw dropped the moment I saw these glasses. They're stunning, and you would never guess they're from Kmart,' said another. 'I get compliments every time I have guests over. Everyone is shocked when I say they're from Kmart - they look so expensive.' Design-savvy shoppers were quick to compare the Kmart range to high-end European brands such as Eleish van Breems, whose Murano Glass octagonal drinking glasses retail for a staggering $185 per piece. The Octagon Hiball Glasses and Octagon Tumbler Glasses retail for just $14 for a pack of six and feature a unique faceted design that gives everyday glassware a sophisticated twist Handmade in Italy on the island of Murano, the designer versions come in a range of colours, including white with a blue rim, pink with a white rim, and dark green with an orange rim. Another luxe option is the Nini Vino glass set by R+D Lab, which sells for $140 for a set of two. These are also handmade in Italy, using high-quality borosilicate glass. While the designer options are undeniably beautiful, the price point makes Kmart's version hard to beat, especially for those looking to elevate their tableware without spending hundreds. And that's precisely why Australians keep coming back to Kmart. From minimalist kitchenware to stylish furniture and viral home décor, the retailer has earned a loyal following for delivering on-trend products at prices that don't break the bank. Shoppers love the thrill of discovering luxe-looking items for less, and with social media flooded with 'Kmart hacks' and viral finds, the brand has become a go-to for affordable home transformations. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just upgrading your glassware for everyday use, this latest Kmart release proves once again that great style doesn't have to come with a designer price tag. In addition, Kmart also recently surprised shoppers with a secret new range in the lead-up to its eagerly awaited August living launch. This latest drop is packed with versatile pieces that effortlessly combine function and flair. Home favourites include the Arch Black floor mirror ($129), a sleek, full-length buy with a minimalist arch silhouette and black frame, promises to add a modern elegance to your home. Its slim design means it fits neatly into smaller spaces, while the full-length reflection ticks the boxes for practicality and style. In the kitchen, Kmart continues to impress with smart, affordable gadgets. Their air fryer oven ($119) has already won fans for convenience and versatility, and now the compact omelette maker ($20) makes whipping up a fluffy, two-portion treat quick and mess-free - a win for busy mornings. Herb enthusiasts will appreciate the Herb keep savers ($5.50), which prolong freshness and cut down on waste - a small but thoughtful addition that foodies can't get enough of. Meanwhile, the new tropical dinner plates ($8) add a splash of fun with palm leaf, shell, and peach designs that brighten up any meal. It's this combination of style, practicality, and price that keeps Australians coming back to Kmart. With this new secret drop offering fresh ways to update homes ahead of the full living launch, it's clear Kmart is once again tapping into what everyday shoppers want: affordable pieces modelled off the 'it' buys of the moment. Whether you're redecorating, upgrading your lighting, or hunting for clever kitchen helpers, this new range has got people talking - and reaching for their wallets.
