A Blue Moment

This week, we’re all about blues; thanks to this beautiful shot we found on Gather Journal. Isn't it lovely?

Our new mood also has something to do with the arrival of illustrator Fanny Shorter’s kaleidoscopic prints at Roost which, with their cool hues, adorn notebooks and accessories that will take pride-of-place upon desktops or dotted around the home.

You can see Fanny's full collection here, or for more inspiration, take a peek at our favourite blue-hued Roost Living pieces below.

Coronal Notebooks by Fanny Shorter, £18 each

Coronal Pouches by Fanny Shorter, £18

Vintage Blue Butterfly Print by Roo Abrook, £9

Wobbly Bowls by Mizuyo Yamashita, from £12

Reflect Cups and Saucers by Richard Brendon

Meet Sara Newman, our newest Roost recruit

Let us introduce to you Sara Newman; our latest designer here at Roost Living. We've been working with Sara to bring you a special item designed and made exclusively for Roost Living. We caught up with her to ask her all about where she finds inspiration, her workspace, and how she finds that all important work versus life balance. Here’s what she had to say...

When and why did you decide to be a designer?

My background is Interior Design, hotels in particular. That began back in the mid 90s. Fast forward to 2008 and, as our family grew, I put my career to one side. Soon after, my innate need to craft inventive gifts has grown into a creative business; Sara Newman Design.

What are you main creative influences?

My grandmothers and great aunt were creative, my uncle is an artist and a lot of my friends are creators and thinkers. Life influences me.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

In the artwork and stories of graphic novels, tattoo art and model villages.

What aspect of your work gives you the most pleasure?

Seeing someone else’s eyes light up when they click with what I’m doing.

Where are you most creative?

In my head! I spend a lot of time dreaming and planning.

What's your workspace like?

I work from home, at a huge carbon fibre and aluminium table that was designed and built by a friend.

How do you describe your style?

Crisp, intricate, playful.

What are you currently working on?

Some glassware for the Christmas Arcade at Somerset House. It’s a pop-up shop run by Handmade In Britain in conjunction with Somerset House.

When you first started out, what was the best advice you received?

Nothing in particular, I’ve just always been around people who are not afraid to create.

What advice do you have for other designers starting out?

Believe in what you do or you cannot expect anyone else to.

How do you achieve a work/life balance?

I’m still searching for it!

What are you other passions?

Dancing I guess, but it’s a living room dance floor these days.

What is your favourite food?

It’s a close call between chocolate mousse and pavlova – with raspberries and maybe some thick cream. 

What is your greatest weakness?

My children.

Orchid Glass now available online

Artichoke Season, Pan-Cooked Artichokes

Artichoke season is here so its the perfect time to start experimenting in the kitchen with this striking yet beautiful vegetable.  When cooking artichokes it's best to keep it simple.  Here is a rather delicious, yet simple recipe is from My Tuscan Kitchen by Aurora Baccheschi Berti, with beautiful imagery by Beth Evans.

Pan-Cooked Artichokes

12 Baby artichokes (violetto variety preferably)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
Leaves from 1 bunch parsley, chopped, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Wash the artichokes, remove the hard outer leaves, and cut off the pointed ends.

Place the artichokes in a saucepan with the oil, garlic, parsley and salt and pepper to taste.  Place over low heat, add 1 cup of water, cover the pan and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until the artichokes are tender.   Serve sprinkled with parsley.

Artichoke Apron, Tea Towel and Hankies by Thornback and Peel is available Exclusively at Roost Living

Introducing our feline friends Bandit and Fidel

Two new arrivals have stopped off at Roost - Bandit and Fidel, the curious kitties that will have your door propped open in no time, not to mention add a touch of fun to your décor.

Both humourous characters are crafted by Charlene Mullen, a London-based designer whom since graduating in illustration at the city's Royal College of Art, has become known for her quirky, sketch-like embroidery. 

Bandit and Fidel's inky lines epitomise Charlene's love of the drawn line. Plus, each feline is scented with of a hint of lavender too, making them a welcome addition to any home. Get them before they're gone! 

Charlene with her London Scenic Cushion