Dive into the Depths of Design with Mermaidcore Interiors

It’s got seashells and sequins aplenty. It’s got satin and wave prints galore. You want pearls? It’s got more!

This interior trend has been making waves since the beginning of last year and it’s fin-tastic; The Mermaidcore Aesthetic. Discover a world of mermaid-inspired treasures from iridescent ornaments and crochet tails, to sea goddess sculptures and shell-inspired prints. Below we dive in, take a look at this latest trend and show you how to level up your interior game.

Whether the latest live-action Disney adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s The Little Mermaid is to blame or the popularity rise in wild swimming, our fascination with the sea is forever growing and mermaids are back on trend with a splash! There are a million different ways to embrace this trend which is what makes it so versatile. Nautical interiors are nothing new, but far from being tacky (which you might assume it could be), it’s one of the most fun and elegant interior trends.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the depths of Mermaidcore interiors, looking at key elements and offering tips on how to incorporate this trend into your home.

COLOR PALETTE: OCEANIC HUES

The heart of Mermaidcore lies in its mesmerising colour palette. To capture the essence of the deep sea, opt for shades of aqua, turquoise, teal, and seafoam green. These soothing and aquatic colours mirror the tranquil and refreshing atmosphere of the ocean. Pair them with accents of pastel pinks, corals, and last year’s trending colour, lilac, to evoke the magical aura of mermaids.

UNDERWATER-INSPIRED LIGHTING

Illuminate your Mermaidcore haven with lighting fixtures that mimic the soft, underwater glow. Crystal chandeliers, pendant lights with iridescent shades, or even jellyfish-shaped lamps can transport you to the depths of the ocean right from your living room.

SOFT FURNISHINGS

To fully embrace the enchanting ambience of Mermaidcore, choose textiles that glisten and evoke the shimmering scales of mermaids. Look for sequined or ruffled pillows, and iridescent curtains, and throw blankets with a pearlescent sheen. These elements add a touch of glamour and mystique to your interior while remaining true to the mermaid theme.

For a more nautical take on the theme, crochet’s resurgence isn’t going anywhere in 2024 and it ties in ideally with mermaidcore. Interior designers are building on the handwork movement’s momentum by utilising crochet in matching sets such as cushions and throws, placemats and napkin rings. Showcasing fishnet knots, rustic cords, and natural twine in seaside-inspired colours adds a grounding texture to contrast with iridescent and pastel fabrics.

AQUATIC ART AND DECOR

Incorporate art pieces that pay homage to the oceanic world. Consider hanging paintings or prints of underwater scenes, mermaids, or aquatic creatures on your walls paired with seashell-shaped mirrors or wall art. These pieces can serve as focal points and conversation starters.

COASTAL FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES

To achieve the ultimate Mermaidcore look, choose furniture with coastal or beach-inspired designs. Wicker chairs, driftwood coffee tables, and seashell-embellished cabinets can add a rustic and charming touch to your space.

WHIMSICAL DETAILS, NAUTICAL TOUCHES AND OCEANIC ELEMENTS

To infuse your space with a touch of Mermaidcore, incorporate nautical and oceanic elements. Seashells, starfish, and coral motifs make wonderful decorations, whether they’re displayed on shelves, used as wall art, or incorporated into your furniture. Driftwood sculptures, beach finds, sea glass and pearls all lend themselves to this aesthetic.

MERMAID-INSPIRED PERSONAL TOUCHES

Don’t forget to infuse your personality into your Mermaidcore interior. Incorporate personal touches like mermaid-themed collectables, DIY seashell crafts, or framed photos of your favourite beach memories.

Mermaidcore offers a captivating and imaginative way to infuse your living space with the beauty and mystery of the ocean. Whether you’re drawn to the soothing colours, the enchanting decor, or the whimsical ambience, Mermaidcore provides endless opportunities for creativity. So, dive in, let your imagination run wild, and transform your home into an underwater paradise where the magic of mermaids reigns supreme.

Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly

Tis the season for decorating, adding trims and flourishes everywhere in order to have the best-dressed house for Christmas 2023. Here we look at some of the top trends in Christmas decor this year aiming to make every house extra merry. Whether you’re an evergreen au natural fan or all about the glitz and glam, we’ve gathered inspiration for everyone suited to every home.

EVERGREEN DELIGHTS 

Foilage is your friend for this trend. Springs of holly and ivy tastefully draped over picture frames, bowls of chestnuts ready to roast, a branch on the mantle twisted with fairy lights and a real fir tree. Embracing the season’s natural elements is an affordable and beautiful way to decorate your home in 2023. Fill mason jars with pinecones, dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, tie with twine around the top and mix in a few spray-painted ones in gold or silver for some extra sparkle. Make your own pomanders using oranges and cloves to make the room smell amazing. Don’t forget to hand a sprig of mistletoe over the door!

RED AND WHITE STRIPES 

A traditional colour scheme that works wonderfully with vintage kitsch decorations. Think retro additions like tablecloths embroidered with holly motifs, cut glass or crystal wine glasses, tall white candles in tabletop wreaths and linen napkins with napkin rings. It doesn’t need to be new to be nice either, sort through old decorations and reuse favourite festive trinkets that fit the colour scheme. Pop on some classic Christmas tunes, poor yourself a babycham and you’ll all be rocking around the Christmas tree like it’s 1958 in no time!

SPARKLE AND SHINE

Opulence is the name of the game with this trend. Thick winter rugs, deep jewel-toned hues and mirrors to reflect the Christmas tree lights from every angle. It goes without saying that every Christmas table needs an abundance of candlelight to give it that warm glow and festive sparkle. A mirrored surface beneath a candelabra or tea lights in cut crystal holders makes an eye-catching centrepiece on the table creating a beautiful, fragmented light. Complete the look with some tastefully scattered baubles. Added extras such as winter-spice scented candles and richly coloured scatter cushions make the home seem truly sumptuous.

LESS IS MORE

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere we go… only sometimes it’s all a bit much and when we get home, we want our décor to be a little more understated and calming. A great way to achieve this is by replacing ornaments and pictures with seasonal ones rather than adding and building clutter. Printed Christmas song lyrics and slogans look great framed and wooden decorations such as stars bring a subtle festive theme to any interior without being too much.

MADE WITH LOVE

Sustainable decorations are fully back on trend and it’s about time too. Remember making paper chains, stringing the popcorn together and spending hours cutting paper snowflakes for the windows? It’s time to embrace the nostalgia, grab some scissors and pull out the string. Not only is homemade best made it’s also very economical, and the absolute joy is that it doesn’t need to be perfect to make an impact. From paper snowflakes and origami stars made from junk mail to brown paper packages tied up with string and handcrafted ornaments, the concept is easy – reuse and recycle. Eco-chic is a décor trend that helps you make memories without spending a fortune. 

Keeping the Hearth Merry and Safe: Fireside Safety Tips for the Festive Season

The festive season brings with it the warmth of family gatherings, cosy fireplaces, and the magic of holiday decorations. As we deck the halls and set the scene for a joyful celebration, it’s crucial to keep safety in mind, especially around the fireplace. After all, we wouldn’t want Santa’s name changing to “Krisp Kringle” due to a little mishap! Here are some fireside safety tips to ensure a merry and safe holiday season for all:

FIREGUARDS: A GUARDIAN FOR FESTIVE FLAMES

Investing in a sturdy fireguard is like having a silent guardian for your fireplace. Not only does it add a touch of elegance to your hearth, but it also serves as a protective barrier, preventing curious hands (or paws) from getting too close to the flames.

MIND THE STOCKINGS, MIND THE FIRE

We all love the tradition of hanging stockings with care, but let’s be cautious about where we place them. Keep stockings and other holiday decorations at a safe distance from the fireplace to prevent them from accidentally catching fire. A little care ensures that the only thing going up in flames is the Yule log.

SAY NO TO FLAMMABLE FRIENDS

While fluffy rugs and cushions add comfort to your cosy corner, make sure they’re made from non-flammable materials – you can find more information on choosing hearth rugs here. This simple step can go a long way in preventing accidental fires. Opt for fire-resistant decor to keep the festive spirit alive without compromising safety.

CANDLES: A GLOWING HAZARD

Candles are a quintessential part of holiday decor, but they can pose a fire risk if not handled carefully. Keep candles at a safe distance from the fireplace and away from any potential flammable items. Consider flameless candles as a safer alternative for that warm and inviting glow.

STORE LOGS SAFELY

If you’re using a wood-burning fireplace, store your logs away from the immediate vicinity of the flames. This prevents sparks from igniting unattended logs and reduces the risk of accidental fires. We’ve got a whole blog on log storage ideas right here!

EDUCATE THE LITTLE ONES

For families with children, take a moment to educate them about the dangers of the fireplace. Instil the importance of keeping a safe distance and help them understand the potential risks associated with playing near an open flame.

By following these fireside safety tips, you can create a festive atmosphere that’s not only warm and inviting but also secure for everyone. This holiday season, let the only thing roasting be chestnuts on an open fire and keep the merry moments alive in a safe and joyful environment.

The Arch Aesthetic: A Timeless Elegance

Interior design is a canvas where creativity knows no bounds. Over the years, numerous design trends have come and gone, but one aesthetic that stands the test of time is the arch. Archways bring a timeless elegance and a sense of grandeur to any space, effortlessly blending classic and contemporary elements. In this blog, we explore the new found love for the arch aesthetic in interior design, with a special focus on incorporating arches in fireplace designs.

THE ALLURE OF ARCHES

Arches have been a hallmark of architecture and design for centuries. Their curved form adds a softness to spaces that might otherwise feel angular and cold. Whether it’s a small, subtle arch or a dramatic, sweeping one, this design element adds depth, character, and a sense of history to any room.

INCORPORATING ARCHES INTO INTERIOR DESIGN

Here are some ways to incorporate the arch aesthetic into your interior design:

DOORWAYS AND PASSAGEWAYS

  • Arched doorways can be a striking entry point between rooms where a door isn’t needed.
  • Use them in hallways or corridors to create a sense of flow and connection.
  • Opt for materials like wood or stone for a more rustic or traditional look, or go for sleek metals and glass for a modern twist.

WINDOWS

  • Arched windows are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. You can add faux lead detailing to feature an arched design effectively on existing windows.
  • They allow in natural light while adding a touch of elegance to the room.
  • Choose window furnishings that complement the arch’s shape, like flowing curtains or Roman shades.

FIREPLACE DESIGN

Fireplaces are natural focal points in living spaces, making them the perfect canvas for the arch aesthetic. Here’s how to incorporate arches into fireplace designs:

The Classic Arch Mantel:

  • Create a traditional look with a wooden mantel featuring a gracefully arched opening.
  • Decorate the mantel with timeless elements like candles and family photos in arched frames.

Arched Alcove:

  • Frame the fireplace with arched alcoves that can house artwork or collectables.
  • Use lighting to highlight the alcove and draw attention to the featured items.

Mirrored Arch:

  • Install a mirrored arch above the fireplace for a touch of luxury and to visually expand the space.
  • The mirrored surface reflects light and creates a sense of openness.

Tilework or Stone Surround:

  • Create an arch with tiles or stones surrounding the fireplace opening.
  • Existing tiles could be replaced to feature ones with an arch pattern on them.
  • Play with different patterns and colours to add personality and style.

The arch aesthetic in interior design is a timeless choice that exudes sophistication and charm. Incorporating arches into fireplace designs is just one way to infuse your living spaces with this classic elegance. Whether you prefer a traditional, rustic, or contemporary look, arches can be adapted to suit your personal style, making them a versatile and enduring element in interior design. So, why not embrace the graceful curve of the arch and elevate your home’s ambience to a whole new level of sophistication?

Campfire Bread on a Stick: A Delicious Outdoor Adventure

We know we’ve said it before, but there’s something truly magical about cooking over a fire and bonfire night is a great time to indulge in this! The crackling flames, the smoky aroma, and the sense of camaraderie that comes with gathering around the fire make for unforgettable outdoor experiences. 

One classic, party-pleasing, open-fire recipe is “Campfire Bread on a Stick.” This simple, yet delightful, treat is not only easy to make but also a fun activity that adds a touch of rustic charm to outdoor escapades. In this blog, we’ll take you through the steps to master the art of cooking campfire bread on a stick.

INGREDIENTS:

– 1 cup plain flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sweeter bread)

– 1/3 cup water

– Wooden skewers or long, clean, sturdy sticks (you can cover the cooking end in tin foil if needed)

– Cooking oil or non-stick spray

EQUIPMENT:

– Mixing bowl

– A surface to knead on – if you’re away from home a camp table or tray works well

– Campfire or open flame – fire pits work great!

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you embark on your campfire bread-making adventure, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. Check your fire is set up away from any hazards or flammable items to ensure you have a safe and controlled setup.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using). Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly. Gradually add the water while stirring the mixture. Continue to mix until the dough comes together. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly, so add it in small increments until you achieve a firm yet pliable dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading helps activate the gluten in the flour, resulting in a better-textured bread.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

Divide the dough into small portions, roughly the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a long, snake-like shape, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Take your skewer or stick and wrap the dough around it, forming a spiral shape. Ensure that the dough is secure on the stick, leaving some space at the ends for handling.

Top Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before cooking to prevent them from burning.

Step 5: Cook Over the Campfire

Now, it’s time to bring out the magic of the campfire. Make sure you have a bed of hot coals and a stable cooking area. 

Hold your bread-on-a-stick over the campfire, rotating it gently to ensure even cooking. It should take about 5-10 minutes to cook the bread. You might need gloves! The dough will turn golden brown and crisp up as it bakes.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Once your campfire bread on a stick is beautifully browned and cooked through, carefully remove it from the fire. Allow it to cool for a minute or two before indulging in this delicious treat.

Campfire bread on a stick can be enjoyed on its own, with a drizzle of honey, or as a great accompaniment to a stew or chilli!

Get Your Spook On!

All Hallow’s Eve is coming! Looking for all the tricks you need to make the perfect haunted house? Then search no more! If Halloween is your favourite season then your going to love these boo-tiful ideas we’ve curated just for you. 

From tricks to treats—and even a few frights—there’s everything you need to create the perfect setting for an extra-special, extra-spooky celebration that will entertain all the ghouls on your guest list!

We’ve scrolled through Pinterest, tapped through Instagram and read all the magazines we could get our hands on! We made notes, studied themes and put it all together in a giant cauldron to compile a magical list of everything you need to complete your Halloween House transformation in 2023.

These are so good it’s scary, don’t say we didn’t warn you!

OUTSIDE

THE GRAVEYARD GARDEN

GRAVESTONES

Set up faux tombstones with spooky inscriptions in the garden. These could be cut from cardboard or mdf. Paint the shapes with a base layer of grey and once dry, use a sponge to dab on areas of black to create texture and give an aged look. 

SKELETONS

Pose skeleton decorations in various positions, as if they’re coming out of the ground. This looks really effective with some piled-up compost in front of faux gravestones, use different body parts for maximum drama! Alternatively, old broken dolls can help create a scene straight out of a horror movie!

MISTY NIGHT

Everything is creepier at night, especially with a little fog looming about. Create an eerie atmosphere with a fog machine for a truly spooky graveyard aesthetic.

GLOWING EYES

Got a feeling of being watched? Place battery-powered LED eyes in bushes or trees to spook passers by. You can also use torched with cardboard cut-outs to create the same effect.

HAUNTED PATHWAY

Illuminate your garden path with pathway lights shaped like ghosts or pumpkins.

DOUBLE, DOUBLE TOIL AND TROUBLE; FIRE BURN AND CAULDRON BUBBLE.

Looking for a different theme? Create a traditional witches’ coven in your garden! Display a cauldron with bubbling dry ice for a witch’s brew effect, and place rocks around the cauldron to pose as seating. Add in a few broomsticks, a couple of old books and some bottles/jars filled with odd items (display bottles filled with coloured water and glow sticks for a potion effect) and hey presto – a magical scene! Hang bats from nearby trees for added spectacle.

THE WINDOWS

SILHOUETTES: Use black paper or cardboard to create spooky silhouettes like witches, ghosts, or bats.

CANDLELIT WINDOWS: Place battery-operated candles on windowsills for a haunted mansion look.

SPIDER WEBS: Decorate windows with fake spider webs and plastic spiders, the bigger and hairier the better!

BLOODY HANDPRINTS: Nothing says Halloween quite like a blood-curdling scream! Create bloody handprints using red paint or fake blood on windowpanes to freak out your guisers!

THE FRONT DOOR

WREATHS: Create a spooky wreath with black feathers, plastic spiders, and orange ribbon.

WELCOME SIGN: Hang a Halloween-themed welcome sign or banner on the door. ‘Keep Out!’, ‘Knock if You Dare!’ or a simple ‘Trick or Treat!’ all look great!

PUMPKIN STACKS: Stack pumpkins or jack-o’-lanterns on either side of the door.

GIANT SPIDERS: Attach giant spider decorations to the door or the surrounding area.

CREEPY CURTAINS: Use tattered or lace curtains on the door’s windows for an eerie effect.

INSIDE

GENERAL DECOR

TABLE CENTREPIECES: Create a spooky centrepiece with pumpkins, candles, and faux spiders. Candelabras strung with black beads on black lace doilies set with orange candles are the perfect balance of elegance and eerie.

FLOATING GHOSTS: Hang white sheets draped over chicken wire from the ceiling to create floating ghost decorations.

BATTY BANNERS AND GHOSTLY GARLANDS: Hang Halloween-themed banners or garlands in your living room or hallway.

SPIDERWEB CORNERS: Stretch fake spiderwebs across corners and add plastic spiders for effect.

AROUND THE FIREPLACE

PUMPKIN PATCH:  Arrange a group of pumpkins and gourds on the hearth. Faux or real, you can never go wrong with this classic Halloween decoration. This year’s trends sees knitted and velvet pumpkins soaring in popularity once again.

SPOOKY MANTEL: Decorate the mantel with black candles, skeletal figures, and spiderwebs. Black birdcages complete with skeletal birds or a fake raven look boo-rilliant! 

FAUX FIRE: If your fireplace isn’t in use, place LED lights or candles inside for a fiery glow.

POTION BOTTLES: Like in the witch’s scene, display bottles and jars filled with items such as shells, feathers and twigs along with bottles filled with coloured water. Add glow sticks for an even more authentic potion appearance.

LIGHTING

CANDLE LANTERNS: Use candle lanterns with spooky designs to create an eerie ambience.

STRING LIGHTS: Hang orange or purple string lights indoors and outdoors for a Halloween glow.

JACK-O’-LANTERNS: Place lit jack-o’-lanterns around your home’s exterior for a classic Halloween look.

Remember to add your personal touch to these ideas to create a unique and spooktacular Halloween decor setup that suits your style and preferences. 

Happy decorating!

The  Fungi Decor Trend: Bringing the Enchanting Forest Indoors

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go, but some captivate us with their unique charm. The “Fungi Decor Trend” is one such phenomenon, taking inspiration from the enchanting world of mushrooms and fungi found in forests and woodlands. This trend embraces the earthy, organic, and whimsical aesthetics of mushrooms and incorporates them into various design elements within our homes. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating Fungi Decor Trend, with a special focus on how it can be incorporated into fireplace design.

The Fungi Decor Trend draws inspiration from the captivating shapes, textures, and colours of mushrooms and fungi, adding a touch of nature’s enchantment to interior spaces. It embraces the following elements:

MUSHROOM MOTIFS

Mushroom motifs are a central theme in fungi decor. You can find mushroom-inspired patterns and prints on wallpapers, textiles, and artwork.

EARTHY COLOUR PALETTE

The colour palette is characterized by earthy tones like mushroom grey, mossy green, woody brown, and creamy white. These colours evoke the feeling of being in a forest.

ORGANIC SHAPES AND TEXTURES

Fungi decor often incorporates organic, curvaceous shapes and textures reminiscent of mushroom caps and stems. These elements can be found in furniture, lighting fixtures, and decorative items.

NATURAL MATERIALS

The use of natural materials like wood, stone, and clay is prevalent in fungi-inspired decor. These materials enhance the connection to the natural world.

WHIMSICAL ACCENTS

Whimsy plays a significant role in fungi decor. Playful and unexpected details, such as mushroom-shaped chairs or quirky mushroom art installations, add a touch of fantasy to the design.

USING THE FUNGI AESTHETIC IN FIREPLACE DESIGN

Fireplaces are already a focal point in many homes, and incorporating the fungi decor trend can make them even more captivating. Here’s how:

MANTEL DECOR

Adorn your fireplace mantel with mushroom-themed decor. Consider mushroom sculptures, artwork, or even a unique mushroom-shaped mirror as a statement piece.

FIREPLACE TILES

Choose tiles with mushroom-inspired patterns or earthy hues for the fireplace surround. The texture and colour can create a cosy, woodland-inspired ambience.

HEARTHSIDE SEATING

Consider mushroom-shaped or mushroom-themed seating near the hearth. These unique pieces can add both style and comfort to your fireplace area. From cushions to throws, this design element can easily be added to any interior.

LIGHTING

Select lighting fixtures and lamp shades with mushroom-inspired designs, colours or textures. Pendant lights or lamps with organic shapes can cast a warm, inviting glow over your fireplace.

The Fungi Decor Trend is a delightful way to infuse the natural charm and whimsy of the forest into your living spaces. When incorporated into fireplace design, it creates a unique and enchanting focal point that will have everyone in awe of the cosy woodland retreat you’ve created indoors. Whether you choose to embrace this trend fully or simply add subtle mushroom-themed accents, the Fungi Decor Trend allows you to bring the magic of the forest into your home’s heart, transforming your space into an enchanting and captivating haven.

Cooking With Sticks: A Delicious Adventure By The Fire

Cooking over a campfire or fireplace is a timeless tradition that goes beyond marshmallows and hot dogs on sticks. If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game, you’ll be thrilled to discover the plethora of mouth-watering dishes you can prepare using nothing more than a trusty stick. In this blog, we’ll explore various delectable options for cooking on a stick, from savoury to sweet, to make your fireside dining an unforgettable experience.

CAMPFIRE SKEWERS

Skewers are perhaps the most versatile tool for campfire cooking. Load them up with marinated chicken, beef, or shrimp, combined with colourful bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

Don’t forget to season and baste your skewers with your favourite sauces or spices for added flavour.

CAMPFIRE PIES

These handheld savoury treats are like the love child of a sandwich and a calzone.

Fill two slices of bread with your choice of ingredients like cheese, ham, tomatoes, and even pizza sauce. Squash them together and toast them on a stick for a warm, gooey delight.

CAMPFIRE CORN ON THE COB

Wrap a fresh ear of corn with foil and secure it with a stick in one end.

Roast it over the campfire’s coals until the corn is tender and slightly charred. Finish with butter, salt, and your favourite seasonings. We love a little paprika on ours!

CAMPFIRE CINNAMON ROLLS

A sweet twist on campfire cooking! Skewer pre-made cinnamon roll dough and toast it over the fire.

Once the rolls are golden brown and caramelized, drizzle them with icing for a warm, gooey treat.

Brioche buns and pre-made donuts also work well!

CAMPFIRE FRUIT KEBABS

Thread a mix of your favourite fruits onto skewers, things like pineapple, strawberries, and banana slices work best.

Grill them over the campfire for a few minutes until they’re slightly caramelized, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet fruit and the smoky flavour.

Have a caramel or chocolate dipping sauce ready to dunk the warm fruit into or add to bowls of vanilla ice cream! 

CAMPFIRE POPCORN

For a unique campfire snack, put popcorn kernels in a foil packet and place it on a stick. You need quite a strong and long stick for this bake.

Hold it over the fire until the kernels start popping. Shake it periodically to ensure even cooking.

For more popcorn ideas, check out our blog dedicated to this versatile ingredient!

CAMPFIRE SAUSAGES

For a hearty campfire meal, simply skewer sausages, and roast them over the fire.

Serve with grilled onions and mustard in crispy sub rolls for a classic campfire experience.

CAMPFIRE S’MORES CONES

One of our all-time favourites! Fill an ice cream cone with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crushed crackers. Add jam or berries for a fruity twist on this classic flavour combo!

Wrap the cone in foil and heat it over the campfire until everything inside is melty and delicious.

Cooking on a stick over a campfire or fireplace is more than just a cooking method; it’s an experience. Whether you’re sharing stories around the flames with friends or enjoying a peaceful moment in the great outdoors, these stick-based recipes add a delightful twist to your culinary adventures. So, next time you’re camping or simply gathered around a cosy fireplace, grab a stick, get creative with your outdoor cooking, and make some memories!

Campfire Soup: A Recipe to Warm Your Soul.

It’s officially soup season! And we can’t resist a piping hot bowl of classic lentil soup by the wood-burner. What’s your favourite winter warmer to slurp by the fire?

Winter is a season that invites us to cosy up around a crackling fire, sharing stories and savouring comforting dishes. What better way to embrace the chill in the air than by preparing a heart-warming winter soup over an open fire or in a pizza oven? In this blog, we share a delicious and rustic campfire winter soup recipe that will not only fill your belly but also warm your soul.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 450g potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 450g butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 can chopped tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
  • 1 cup sweetcorn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup small pasta (such as macaroni or ditalini)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Fire or Pizza Oven:

If you’re using an open fire, make sure you have a sturdy grate or grill set up above the flames. If you’re using a pizza oven, preheat it to around 400°F (200°C).

2. Start with Sautéing:

Place a large, heavy-duty pot over the fire or on the pizza oven’s grate. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Then, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they start to soften and the onions become translucent.

3. Add the Aromatics:

Love the smell of cooking garlic – us too, especially in the winter. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute or until it becomes fragrant.

4. Add Potatoes and Squash:

Add the diced potatoes and butternut squash to the pot. Cook for a few minutes, allowing them to slightly brown.

5. Top It Up with The Tomatoes, Herbs, Seasoning and Broth:

Pour in the can of chopped tomatoes along with their juices. Then, add the vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavourful bits.

6. Simmer Away:

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and butternut squash become tender.

7. Add the Veggies:

Now, it’s time to incorporate the green beans, corn, and peas. Stir them into the soup and let everything cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

8. Finish with Pasta:

Stir in the small pasta of your choice. Cook until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Typically, this takes about 8-10 minutes.

9. Serve with Love:

Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the bay leaf, and your campfire winter soup is ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls and, if desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavour.

Toast some French bread over the fire and let everyone tear and share for an ultimate outdoor dining experience!

Make Your Home Your Dreamhouse

There’s never been a better time to embrace Barbiecore! The movie is now available to watch at home and with rumours of awards headed its way, the Barbie phenomenon that’s washed over the world is going nowhere soon!

Barbiecore is a playful twist in decor. A whimsical and fun interior design trend that takes inspiration from the iconic Barbie doll and her world of pink, glamour, and playfulness. It’s a style that blends retro nostalgia with modern flair, creating vibrant and eye-catching spaces that exude a sense of joy. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of Barbiecore for interiors, exploring how to make it seasonal and how to incorporate it into fireplace design.

UNDERSTANDING BARBIECORE: AN OVERVIEW

The key to getting this trend right is understanding where it stems from. Barbiecore draws inspiration from the Barbie doll’s aesthetic, which is characterized by:

1. Pink Palette: Pink is the dominant colour in Barbie’s world, ranging from soft pastels to bold fuchsia. However, other bright and vibrant colours can complement the pink theme.

2. Retro Elements: Barbiecore often incorporates retro elements from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, including vintage furniture, shagpile rugs, and kitschy accessories.

3. Glamour and Sparkle: Glitter, sequins, and metallic accents are staples in Barbie’s world, adding a touch of glamour and sparkle to the decor.

4. Playful Patterns: Bold, geometric patterns, especially polka dots and stripes, are common in Barbiecore design.

5. Whimsical Accessories: Fun and whimsical accessories, such as oversized sunglasses, vintage telephones, and decorative makeup mirrors, play a crucial role in this style.

MAKING BARBIECORE SEASONAL

While Barbiecore is often associated with a timeless and playful aesthetic, it can be adapted to different seasons to keep your decor fresh and exciting:

Spring

Embrace soft pastel shades of pink, lavender, and mint. Incorporate floral patterns, fresh flowers, and lightweight fabrics like lace or organza for a light and airy feel.

Summer

Go bold with bright pinks, yellows, and blues. Use beachy and tropical motifs like flamingos, palm leaves, and seashells. Rattan furniture and outdoor elements can enhance the summery vibe.

Autumn

Transition to warmer tones like deep pink, coral, and gold. Add cosy textures like faux fur or velvet to create a welcoming atmosphere. Incorporate seasonal decor like pumpkins and autumn leaves.

Winter

Embrace a winter wonderland with soft pink, silver, and white hues. Think vintage ski suits and faux fur hats. Sparkling ornaments, plush blankets, and holiday-themed decor can make your Barbiecore space feel festive and exciting. Eee!

BARBIECORE IN FIREPLACE DESIGN

Fireplaces provide a unique opportunity to infuse Barbiecore into your home. Here’s how:

Pink Mantel

Paint or tile the fireplace mantel in a shade of pink that suits your Barbiecore theme. Add metallic accents like gold or rose gold for an extra touch of glamour. Don’t fancy a pink mantle, then how about a pink stove?

A Dream Fireplace Surround and Hearth

Mirrored tiles or ones in bright, bold patterns on your fireplace surround can add a touch of Hollywood to your fireplace area, which aligns well with Barbiecore.

Hearth Rugs

The right rug can bring an entire theme together in a room. Ones cut in or featuring geometric shapes, bright pink shagpile rugs and even faux dance floor patterns will ooze Barbiecore in any interior.

Fun Mantel Décor

Decorate the mantel with playful accessories like oversized sunglasses, vintage Barbie dolls, and framed Barbie art. Don’t forget to incorporate a touch of sparkle with sequined or metallic decor.

Barbiecore is all about embracing the joy of playfulness and nostalgia. By adapting this vibrant and fun design trend to different seasons and incorporating it into your fireplace design, you can create a home that radiates warmth, colour, and a sense of whimsy. So, let your inner Barbie shine and transform your living spaces into a playful and glamorous haven that pays homage to a beloved childhood icon.