Antique Style Is Benchmark Of Classy Dining

Apr 20 2008 John Amabile

Ask Amabile

Q My son is moving into his first flat and we've promised to buy him a couple of chairs for the lounge. But we're worried about getting it wrong as he has very individual taste. What would you advise?

A Your son is clearly out to impress by creating the ultimate bachelor pad. I suggest you check out the stylish leather swivel Tirup armchairs from IKEA. They come in black, white or lilac and are very cutting edge yet still comfy. They cost £289 or there's a fabric option for just £215. Visit the website www.ikea.co.uk for more information.

Q With all the fears over the credit crunch we've decided to stay put instead of moving house but our home needs a total makeover and we don't know where to start. Any suggestions?

A The Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show, at the SECC in Glasgow on May 17 and 18, is the place to go. More than 140 companies will be giving expert advice. Log on to www.homebuildingshow.co.uk

Q I am looking for modern fabric and steel dining chairs. I have a glass dining table and want something stylish and cutting edge to complement it.

A The classy Torino dining chair, below, from Furniture Innovations would be right up your street. They cost £220 a pair. For more information log on to www.furnitureinnovations.co.uk or visit their store at West End Retail Park, Crow Road, Glasgow.

Q I am looking for a long dark wood bench for my reclaimed wood kitchen table. Something simple would work best. Any ideas?

A I love this look, it's a great way of creating informal dining. This 19th century-style French provincial dining bench is available from Alexander Paul Antiques and costs £365, while the pair of 18th century Chestnut Benches cost £695. Both are available on 01404 851298 or visit www.alexanderpaulantiques.com

Q Where can I buy a colourful wok as a housewarming present for my mum? Le Creuset pans are lovely but too heavy.

A These gorgeous pans are from Italian cookware company TVS Easy Pretty. The brand new collection of non-stick woks are available in a host of bright designs and colours including red, green, blue, orange and pink. Prices start at £15 and they are suitable for all hobs except induction. For more details log on to www.cookingtime.co.uk

Q I am devoted to my four-legged friend and love buying him new toys. Have you come across anything a bit different?

A Log on to www.platinumpaws.co.uk - it has everything for the totally pampered pet, from collars to stylish toys and beds fit for animal royalty, such as this dog sofa, above.

Q I can't afford new radiators but mine are looking distinctly shabby. Can I paint them?

A You can buy radiator enamel in any good DIY shop but for a really professional finish the answer is powder coat. This process completely enamels the radiators leaving them looking like new and it comes in a range of great colours. Prices vary per size of radiator. For more details call Chameleon metal coatings on 0141 885 1714 or email powder coating@mcsscotland.co.uk

Q I am looking for an unusual wedding gift, ideally something made in Scotland. I have been looking at pottery but most of it is uninspiring. Where can I find something tasteful?

A Try Mugdock Makkers Art Craft at Mugdock Country Park, Glasgow. They have a stunning range of artwork, woodwork and beautiful pottery and you get to see the craftsmen at work. For more details email mugdockmakkers@tiscali.co.uk

Q I plan to build a two-storey extension on the back of my home and would like to put in patio doors from the kitchen opening out to the rear garden. I've searched the internet for quotes but is there a company you would recommend, particularly any Scottish-based firms?

A Gold Seal are a Scottish company who provide quality doors and windows, great service and a 10-year care warranty. They can give valuable advice as well as supply and fit your doors. Call them on 0141 550 1900.

Q My living room is decorated in black and grey but I've read you can bring a room alive using a contrast colour. I reckon a stylish red lamp will give me that wow factor but have not been able to find one. Any ideas?

A This red five-arm lamp will certainly add style and colour to your monochromatic room. It costs £159 from The Store Interiors, Anniesland, Glasgow. Call 0141 950 1333 or log on to their website www.thestorescotland.co.uk