If I got a Euro for every time someone said to me ‘I couldn’t work with family, we’d kill each other’, I’d be a very rich woman! But unfortunately, I don’t but I thought I would give an insight into what makes my experience of a family business so precious….and exciting!

I’m not one that’s great at expressing myself. I’m not good at the basic task of forming sentences coherently, ask anyone in the office and they’ll confirm. They’re getting better at interpreting my mumble jumble though and I’m happy to say we have reached a mutual understanding. So, you can imagine how stressed I am sitting here writing this blog, trying to put words into sentences to tell you about my new found interest for ‘Light Art’.

I remember reading about Caravaggio in my art books when we looked at the great masters and then seeing his The Taking of Christ in our National Gallery. Although the painting and likeness of the subjects was amazing it was the contrast between the dark and the light that struck me the most.

Spring has sprung and summer is just about here. The weather is starting to warm up and the days are longer. No better time to consider giving that back garden or patio area an upgrade and turn them into outdoor living areas that can be appreciated and enjoyed long after the sun goes down.

Italy – the land of la dolce vita, gastronomic delights, stunning countryside, stylish cities, centuries old architecture and sunny days on holiday. In addition Italy is also a big player on the design scene. From the glory days of the 1950’s right through the 60’s, 70’s and to today. Italy has always had an original and super stylish contribution to make to the international design conversation.

This week marks International Dark Sky Week 2019. It highlights the effects of light pollution on our lives, environment and (funnily enough) the sky. Prior to the introduction of artificial electric lighting the night sky was filled with endless amounts of stars, inspiring everything from art to religion and philosophy over the ages.