THE OBJECT

Tea Party bunting

Aspace made its name as a producer of well-priced, contemporary furniture for kids’ bedrooms, but it’s the accessories we like best. Colourful rugs, cool cushions and funky beanbags are just some of the thoughtfully designed items that will add a touch of fun to grown-up environments, too. This charming Tea Party bunting, for example, made from scraps of vintage fabric strung on to gingham ribbon, will ensure your garden parties are as prim, proper and pretty as an English summer can provide. £15 for a 180cm string (0845 8722400; www.aspace.co.uk).

THE BARGAIN

Sleeping partner

A double duvet cover and four pillowcases, all for a shade over £12? You’d better believe it. Ikea’s new summer collections are brimful of great value and stylish designs – none more so than this Hedda Band bed-linen set by Sunniva Kandell. Made from pure cotton, it’s the ideal purchase, along with other designs in the Hedda range, in these rather irksome, belt-tightening times (www.ikea.co.uk).

TRADE SECRET

Anta

73 Grassmarket, Edinburgh (0131-225 9096; www.anta.co.uk)

Why check it out? There’s something about tartan. Too much is overwhelming, but a cushion, a throw or even a staircase kitted out in a bit of posh plaid can add a hit of quirky style to your home. Scottish family-run design and architecture firm Anta knows this well.

What’s hot? This year it celebrates 25 years producing modern interpretations of traditional Scottish style, reworking tartan in subtle, sophisticated colours to suit contemporary interiors. This 100 per cent lamb’s wool throw, £145, is a fine example of what it does best.

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