William Morris one of the most prominent names in the British Arts and Crafts movement once said “Have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”

In these days of disposable consumerism it is actually a very wise mantra to live by.

In this age of media and must have so often we waste money on material thing that we do not need, take a look around your home! There is nothing like a good clear-out to lift the soul, if you know you will not use something or don’t like it then take it to the charity shop making space in your home can be very therapeutic.

But the best of products and those which stand the test of time are those which are useful and beautiful.

The new electric cars have no emissions are cost effective yet look good and are very comfortable.

George Carwardine invented a spring in 1932, which he used to solve the problem of how to design a lamp that would remain in position after being moved in every conceivable direction. The Anglepoise lamp was born, an incredibly practical thing, but its also really gorgeous and nothing beats it to this day.

The wedge shoe is a sensible option, can be worn on grass without sinking and is far gentler on our feet than a traditional heel, yet they are still elegant and stylish.

When Steve Jobs designed the Apple Mac, he knew it had to be technically superior to anything Microsoft could offer. But a big part of what has made Apple products the success they are today was the uncompromising certainty he had that they should be beautifully designed.

The Eames Chair, the Kitchen Maid, the Dyson; all practical products performing the mundane tasks of providing somewhere to sit down, help us bake, clear up our messes. They are elevated in status, much acclaimed and imitated because they look good.

Beauty does not have to cost a fortune, take a look at mother nature Flowers perform the very basic function of allowing procreation; the continuing of the species; The most beautiful of flowers remain underground throughout the winter yet a minute looking at their beauty or breathing in their scent can give us a sense of wellbeing.

On the average day your hands might chop, cook, clean, write, type, gesture, comfort, soothe, show affection, aid communications, lift, carry, make, mend and sew amongst any number of other practical things. Nothing works harder.

SEAMS Hand Cream  making the practical beautiful – Affordable Luxury

Look after your hands

Karen J Gerrard