The Most Inspiring Subscriptions - Our Must have Mags

Asked recently what inspires LitterArty’s work one of my answers was research and reading. I am a huge fan of a good magazine in particular and subscribe to several. Being a strong advocate for sustainable living, some may argue paper magazines are not the way forward and rather contradict the notion. However, I beg to differ, as many magazines (at least the bulk of what I read) are actually processed with sustainability at the heart of their creation. This is done through many avenues, including the use of innovative paper types that use various recycled pulps. If handled correctly these magazines are recyclable too. So there are ways to read physical magazines guilt free!

With the majority of us spending so much of our time looking at a screen, whether computer, phone, tablet or tv, it’s so unbelievably important to have time away from that blue light. Personally I really look forward to spending a little down time kicking back and flicking through a great magazines or book, it feels quite indulgent giving myself that time, pure luxury!

So here are some of our favourite reads for you’re consideration. Any of these would be a great addition to your current reading list. And shock horror, they’re not all Interiors or design driven, but this doesn't mean they’re not equally as inspiring to our work.

Be Kind

I absolutely love this magazine, it is a great read. The articles are fantastically detailed and informative.
A publication more about articles and content than adverts and all those ‘space savers’ used in so many contemporary magazines. The content is broken into easy to navigate sections ranging from creativity, to mindfulness, environmental issues and more.
You can still find lots of great home and interior inspiration, all accompanied by lots of guidance on living sustainably in your home. So while this is a lifestyle magazine and not focused on interiors it is a great tool for living with integrity and brining harmony into your life and therefore your home.

It really is a great one and long may it continue. You’ll find a pile of them in the bathroom and downstairs WC in the LitterArty house, guest love it!
You can subscribe to the monthly editions or pick one up in your local shop.

Happy News

Now this one is a bit different, less of a magazine and more of a newspaper replacement. If you, like us, are sick of negative crappy headlines and bad news, this is your salvation. Page after page filled with nothing but happy (the title gives that away) positive news.
The stories covered shine light on positive happenings across the world, many of the stories you would be none the wiser about if you hadn't perused the pages of this lovely publication.
Each edition is broken in news from each month (you see the only shame is it is quarterly so they can save up all the great things that have happened over the last few months), the pages are crammed with great and uplifting facts and figures. There is also a section on dedications where you can nominate someone you know who has done something great. These personal shout outs are so uplifting in a time when it can be hard to believe in good, there are still lots of us out there!
It’s got a great big thumbs up from us and we look forward to the next edition landing on our doorstep. Ideally consumed accompanied by a good brew and naughty sweet treat.

Apartamento

One of my favourite interior driven magazines, pure aesthetic joy!
Published biannually, this visual delight and informative read gives insight in to people, their homes and how they live in them. A through the keyhole style approach. Often selling out in days this magazine became a real cult publication from its inception back in 2008.
Each page presents real ‘lived-in’ interiors, this honest representation is hugely influential and more to the point identifiable and achievable, especially in comparison to the often stark and overly stages interiors featured in many high end magazines across the sector.

That all said there is a definite ‘retro’ aesthetic to the interiors featured and the style of the photography used, so this style of publication may not suit all. For us it’s a spot on edition to our inspiring magazine list and a real staple.

Hole & Corner

A great design source, dedicated to the real craftsmanship and skills behind design, some of which take years or decades to master. It believes in the process and development needed to produce inspiring great design, in the doing not the talking, the pages are therefore filled with articles on such matters.
Contributors include world renowned photographers and authors, which about confirms this publication as a hard hitter in the sector. It’s as thoughtfully put together as the subject matters it covers. A real chunky coffee table style magazine that needs time to devour, which is fine as issued biannually you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each and every article.

The content leaves you inspired and in awe of some amazing craftspeople who have dedicated their lives to the development of their skills and craft.It is therefore only fair that we dedicate some of our time to reading about it. In doing so, opening our eyes to amazing people all over the world that would otherwise go under the radar.
A really great, worthwhile read, especially if you appreciate authenticity and heritage!

91 Magazine

Independent magazines are my kryptonite and 91 doesn’t disappoint.

Focused on more affordable and attainable interiors and lifestyle (right up our street). This publication offers up a smorgasbord of beautiful visuals and accessible lifestyle tips, with a sustainable focus (double thumbs up).
Content is broken in to sections each with a theme, this runs in each magazine with each section focusing on a specific place or person, changing each edition. From news, to shopping, to restaurant and home tours. The articles cover lots of interesting aspects of lifestyle. I actually love the home tours sections in particular, they are dotted through out and feature interesting people in their (as the title would suggest) homes. The restaurant tours are also really great as they discuss the atmosphere, decor and ethos of a place rather than the style of most restaurant reviews that predominately focus on food critique. Along with these tours, there’s a cool section called 3 ways with, and each magazine features a different subject matter.
Finally, there is a very current cultural focus on social media and instagram in particular. Love it or hate it, it’s part of most of our lives and a real source of visual inspiration. They therefore feature an instagram edit showcasing chosen accounts again based on a chosen theme, i.e. Handmade or Craftsmanship.

Just an enjoyable read featuring real people for real people, with the added advantage of being visually pleasing and calming.

Oh Comely

Recently reimagined simply as Oh! this is another independent magazine with oodles of creativity and female empowerment. Already sold?…Well let me tell you a little more.
The ethos behind the magazine is about looking at the way you view the world and yourself. Jam packed with full pages of colourful images and text, featuring articles on a vast array of subject matters such as; fashion, music, food and culture.
It’s essentially offering up a different approach to a wellbeing magazine, all the articles have the end goal to encourage mindful actions and in doing so a the creation of a less stressed more balanced lifestyle.
Published bi-monthly you can subscribe or pick it up at some supermarkets. I great one for those looking for a female driven read.

Breathe

I think we all need to take time to breathe and with magazines like this you can have a helping hand. Full of great tips and articles on ways to self care, something all too many of us neglect.
This monthly mag breaks down in to healthy chunks on wellbeing, living, mindfulness, creativity and escape. Each section packed with its own content ranging from sleep tips and exercise routines, to ways to be more creative or guides on how to make something. Each article is informative without being preachy, which I love, there’s a fine line between the two as we all know.
They also do special editions and journals that enable you to doodle, list write and contemplate.

I have picked up several varieties of mindful and wellbeing magazine and this is by far my favourite. Just the way it flows and the style of the illustrations and articles. Available at most shops and supermarkets where you’ll find the magazines, go check it out!

other faves include: Disegno, Frieze, Frame and Resurgence & Ecologist.

Best Eco Household Products

The saying that small changes make a big difference applies massively in the drive to make conscious changes in environmental awareness. You don’t have to become a self confessed ‘eco-warrior’ to make a difference. Although if you want to then that is great!

Starting at home with the day to day things not only works to help the environment at large but the ecology of your own home and the healthy lifestyle of you and your family. If they look great, work just as well (if not better in some cases) and smell fab then what’s the down side?
In the LitterArty house we have used cruelty and chemical free household products for a long time, this is a small choice to not only help the larger eco environment but also to benefit our own health and lifestyle. We are and always have been averse to strong chemical use, let’s face it it’s just not good for anyone and I cannot bear the fact that a lot of these harsh products are tested on animals, it’s just plain wrong.
I don’t believe people want to use products that are harmful or tested on animals for that matter, I just think we are often unaware of what they are using in products. This is why transparency, education and raising awareness is key.

Here I’m covering some of our favourite ‘eco’ products.

(Please note this is not an ad or paid promotion, these are just brands we have used and like.)

The Established Brands

Method products

Image courtesy of Methodproducts .co.uk

A firm and well used favourite of ours, readily available and affordable. They work amazingly and most of them smell good enough to eat! Their products range from standard floor and surface cleaners to more specific products that target certain household surfaces, such as a very handy stainless steel cleaner. Their glass cleaner is perfect and a staple of the LA household. The packaging is recyclable in most local areas.

Ecover

Image courtesy of Ecover.com

With over 40 years of established eco experience this Belgian company covers all products including laundry washing liquids. They are fab and smell amazing, especially when washing bedding for some reason! They are big players in paving the way in eco household products the UN featured them in their 500 honours list for outstanding achievements in the field. you can also recycle the packaging dependant on your local area’s policy.

Homegrown

KINN Living

image courtesy of Kinn-living.com

Kind the household brand officially launched in 2017, but it is the follow on from what was originally Little Wishes a clean beauty brand which was established earlier around 2015.
The mother daughter team behind the brand have the simple ethos of clean beauty, for you, your family and now your home.

The products are available from the likes of Waitrose supermarkets, with growing availability. The range contains everyday essentials such as laundry detergent, washing up liquid and surface cleaners.

The Newcomer

Tincture London

Image courtesy of Tincturelondon.com

Definitely one for the design conscious there has been a lot of attention paid to the overall branding and design of these products. Making it the most chic of the products out there these bottles are almost too good to put away. On a more practical design front the hand pump style on the sprays makes them very easy to use. I notice these weird things and really appreciate when something is easy to handle so that’s an additional plus from me.

All the products are classed as tinctures derived from monastic herbal remedies, hence the brand name. They range from a floor tincture to a glass/steel tincture, they also do a cool refrigerator spray. Again the packaging is all recyclable and the mini versions are also made form 100% recycled materials.

Whatever your reasons are behind trying a new eco household product, even if in this case you just like the bottle, go for it I encourage you. Changing your household cleaning and washing products is a big step to improving your home environment to one that is safe, clean and more natural. But perhaps more importantly it is also a small step (at least) to helping improve the environment at large. Go forth and be more eco, you won’t turn back.

48hrs in Seville - sun drenched streets with style

What do you do with only 48hrs in an amazing city with so much to see?
Here’s our 48hr low down on Seville for design and culture seekers.

When we visited Seville it was the beginning of September and baking hot at about 35 degrees on average, which isn’t bad for a city that regularly peaks at 40 in the summer months. Despite the temperature being better suited to lounging about we didn’t stop!…Standard.
We also drove into the city, which was an experience in itself with the sat nav directing us around every little back street, lane and alleyway. A great way to see the city though.

Get yourself a base in one of the cool places in and around the little streets that surround the main Cathedral, this position in the heart of the old town works for seeing everything this beaut city has to offer without travelling too far. We stayed at the awesome boutique Hotel Casa del Poeta and totally recommend it with bells on!
Set in a large 17th century house with central open courtyard and topped with a rooftop terrace. The view over Seville does little for this city because you’ll find all the detail and design on street level but it’s great for an end of day drink!

Start your day with a quick coffee and bite on the go, pick this up from one of the cafes that line the central streets of Seville. As you walk you’ll see the orange trees that line loads of the streets and all the detail in every paved area. They love their detail here and many of the (equivalent) cobbled streets are paved in a chevron style brick tile that just looks pretty cool. The fact is, this detail was more likely a practicality but I like to believe it was for the love of design…

There are a handful of well known tourist spots to hit up. Unlike in some cities where I would say skip most of these for the more unusual spots, in this case, I would say see as many as possible. The buildings here are so beautiful and the significant sights are worth it. However, do try to stop at Casa de Pilatos, a less known ‘great’ house, in comparison to the uber touristy Royal Alcazar of Seville.

The tiles at this place are unreal, (see above image of me, just hanging out in a window…as you do). It’s much quieter here and no queues making it a total winner for us.

Once you’ve enjoyed all that is on offer here now head out to get walking, (buses/trams and metros available) to head to Plaza de Espana. Probably the most photographed place in Seville, when you get there it’s easy to see why with all it’s blue, white and bright yellow tiles.

Walking through the streets, start slightly towards the main river that runs through the city, there are tons of local churches big and small, pop your head in to one or two they are beautiful. I’m not a church person but I appreciate the look and feel of these historic and meaningful structures. We looked in to Parroquia de Santa Cruz, one of the Catholic churches with it’s ornate interior and gilded…everything.
Try to walk by Plaza del Cabildo on your way towards the banks of the Canal de Alfonso XIII, just a great looking crescent like plaza where you can get more pictures of the typical Seville style.

When you hit the canal spy the Torre del Oro, there are quite a few fortress style buildings along the banks but this is the best known. It has a museum, if you like military history I’d suggest going but but for us it was just good to look at and move on.

If you can walk more, head over the Puenta San Telmo (bridge next to the Torre del Oro). Crossing the canal you’ll head in to Triana. This area used to be very poor and ghetto like back in the day, now it is a bustling wealthy area full of cool tapas bars, shops and a big marketplace. Before checking out the market grab some lunch at the likes of DeO, a small but fab tapas cafe. You’ll need the food after the amount of walking! 
Now head to the market and while there why not watch one of the live Flamenco shows that go on in the little theatre there and grab a drink. 

Now head back over to a tourist spot worth a trip and end the day by viewing the picture perfect sights of the Plaza de Espana. Along with the photogenic building and all it’s tiled surfaces there’s a moat-like river that runs around the curves of the building. You can take a boat out and row your way around. We didn't have time, or to be honest the desire, to do that….but whatever floats your boat! (cheap pun there).

After getting all the sun drenched pictures in and walking along the bridges that line the plaza start making your way back to your hotel. 
We slowly walked back and then went straight on to the rooftop terrace for a strong drink before a quick freshen up and change for dinner. 

We booked a local restaurant, Mechela Arenal, off a recommendation. This was about a 10 minute walk, past the Cathedral and through a busy restaurant/bar area. It was well worth the walk and pre-booking, amazing tapas style dining in a cool setting. 
(It’s worth noting there are two restaurants under the Mechela name, the original smaller Mechela Bailen and the Arenal venue). 
After dinner if you’ve got the energy hit some bars, alternatively hit the sack and get well rested for the next day!

Kick off day two with a good breakfast, we ate in our hotel, which was pretty awesome. We dedicated this whole day to checking out Royal Alcazar of Seville, with the main palace and all the gardens it’s worth giving it plenty of time. It’s smack bang in the centre so not as much walking, but expect queues and crowds, pre-book!

Take your time walking around and get an audio tour to get the most out of it, the Spanish aristocracy and royal history is complex and very interesting. The gardens are vast, with plenty of spots to chill and enjoy the surroundings. 

This is where our trip ended (so not a true 48hrs) and we followed this with a quick last minute tapas treat and then off in the car back towards the coast near Malaga. But, if you have the full day and the energy just keep wandering and visit some more of the fab (and free) spots, or take in some of the galleries that occupy some of the old manor houses around the cit centre. 

Most of all, eat, drink and enjoy!

Trip Tips

• Lots of suncream and a hat…seriously!

• Pre-book any major sights that you want to go in to avoid queues as much as possible. 

• Do research on places for food, it’s worth it to know where you’re heading, lots of places need booking to guarantee a seat. 

• Stay central!

24hrs in Amsterdam - a design trail

We recently took a quick trip to Amsterdam to attempt to get a bit of a break!
This did however, much to the husband’s dismay, turn in to the usual mission to discover some of the best design spots in the city. Luckily he does enjoy it (just perhaps not as much as me), let’s say he’s an enthusiast whereas I’m borderline obsessive.
We were also there for more like 48hrs than 24hr but we thought it might be great to piece together an ideal day for those of you who love design, don’t mind a good wander and want to know where to hit.

We started our day getting some all important breakfast to keep us going, for this we hit Lottie’s at The Hoxton in the fab Nine Streets district, where you will not only get some great grub but you can soak in the chilled out (typical Hoxton style) decor and atmosphere before hitting the streets. We actually stayed at The Hoxton (we can highly recommend it, great staff, location and rooms), and so this obviously worked well for us, but I would hit it up at some point whether you’re based there or not.

From here head straight up through the pretty independent shop laden streets into the Joordan, considered the ‘hip’ neighbourhood. Here you’ll find the fabulous Moooi showroom where the brands furniture, lighting and rugs can be perused to your hearts content, just soak it in.

When you’re ready to head off, wander back down into the Nine Streets area taking in as many little design shops as you want along the way.

It’s obvious from the outset that Amsterdam is a very design driven city, you don’t have to be on the hunt for it, you’ll be absorbing in design and the relaxed style that simply engulfs the whole place.

As you wander try to include spots such as Property of (bespoke products and cool unisex bags/accessories), Concrete Matter (cool menswear), and Hutspot (relaxed concept store).
On your way around this great area you’ll need a coffee break, head to Pluk, a cool little cafe with an array of fresh cakes and breads, along with an impressive and colourful display of fruit and veg for juices and smoothies alike. You can grab something to go or take the time to sit in on the small mezzanine level, although be prepared to wait at busy times as this place gets very busy.

Once you’re refuelled head along to X bank, housed in the sprawling, deco inspired W Hotel. A glitzy concept store focusing on everything from prints to accessories and clothing. You’ll also find the likes of Soho House and Cerconni’s in this area…if that floats your boat!

Now you’ll really needed some lunch so get yourself along to Nooch a fantastic asian fusion restaurant smack bang in the centre of the nine streets. We fuelled up on a light selection of dim sum, sushi and a cheeky G&T…well we were on holiday.

Once full and reenergised, head down to perhaps our favourite (design mecca of sorts) store, The Frozen Fountain. Well worth a visit if you love bright, unique, and colourful furnishings. A two floor showroom of weird and wonderful decor, the second floor housing a fantastic fabric and wallpaper library with some of the best sample books I’ve seen.

After this eye-catching array of goodies has been explored hit the streets again and go on a mission for, a much deserved, cocktail (or two). We headed to the Pulitzer’s bijou bar with its dark and moody decor, and Hemingway inspired drinks menu. The staff here are so helpful and friendly it makes the atmosphere more relaxed and informal than you might expect from the outset. We had the best version of a Cuba Libra that we’ve ever come across in this bar (a barman recommendation).

Following a few drinks and a few card games, head back to your hotel (if you can) for a quick freshen up before another wander out to get some dinner. For this get yourself to Pesca…they’re not joking when they say it’s the ‘theatre of fish’, what an experience and amazing food to boot. The whole experience from start to finish was fun and enjoyable, a laid back atmosphere where you pick your own fish and wine before heading through to the communal dining area to be seated with your handy numbered buzzer. When the buzzer goes off take yourself up to the pass and collect the most delicious fresh seafood dishes that you chose, ready as and when. It’s pure perfection.

If you don’t like fish this isn’t the place for you, we suggest trying Cafe Sous for some sharing plates or Bussia for a great Italian, all in the same sort of area.

Finish the day with a walk back to your hotel, maybe stop for a night cap either along the way or in your hotel bar before hitting the sack! With the amount of walking and exploring you’ll have done you will definitely be ready for it.

A few extra tips:

• Rent a bike if you want to get more done and cover more ground.

• The dutch bikes don't use gears and don’t often have bells, always be aware of your surroundings, they won’t slow down so if you’re not looking you might get taken out!! (I speak from, near, experience).

• Take an umbrella, just incase, it rains on average 217 days a year in Amsterdam so be prepared.

• If you can fit it in or have longer definitely visit: MOCO Museum (Modern, Contemporary Art), the current exhibition is fantastic, also the Haus Marseille and Foam, both photographic galleries are worth visiting.

• Finally, if you can do a boat trip do it, it’s a great way to see the different districts, there are architectural ones and for a bit of fun try Those Dam Boat Guys (a smaller BYOB style boat trip).

Get yourself to Amsterdam, in a nutshell, it’s a design paradise and a total blast!