Answer To Your Prayers

Jun 22 2008 John Amabile

Q We have redesigned our garden with a simple, minimalist feel and are looking for a centrepiece with the wow factor.

I'd like a bronze Buddha water feature to sit by the pond but have had no luck tracking one down.

A This Buddha is in maintenance-free resin with a bronze-effect finish. It is solar-powered so there's no need for wiring and can be operated by remote control. It costs £169 from Littlewoods. To order call 08448 222 321 or click www.littlewoodsdirect.com

Q I suffer terribly with the heat in the summer and would love an old-fashioned desk fan - the black type with a chrome grate that you see in old films. I want it to look cool as well as keep me cool.

A The original versions of the desk fans can cost a packet - over £100 - but they have always been popular and there are now good lookalikes on the market. This one costs £39.95 from John Lewis, click on www.johnlewis.com

Q I have just finished redesigning my living room which has a gorgeous new walnut floor. I am now on the look-out for a wall clock to finish off the look. Can you help?

A This dark-stained wooden spike clock from Next is just £20 and will set your room off a treat. Order from www.next.co.uk or call 0844 844 8000.

Q I've tried for ages to find a pineapple corer. You're my last hope.

A I still reckon it's easier just to peel off the skin and slice it but if you can't live without a pineapple corer Lakeland have one for £6.50. You can buy in store or online at www.lakeland.co.uk or call 015394 88100 to place an order.

Q Where can I buy an entertainment unit with additional storage in a light wood effect? The shops are all full of modern designs in steel and glass.

A The Brandon storage entertainment unit from Argos ticks all your boxes. It comes in a beech finish and has plenty of shelves for TV, DVD player and plenty of extra storage. It costs £129.99 from stores or www.argos.co.uk

Q Where can I find a plain ceiling shade for above my steel and glass dining table. All those I have seen are too small.

A This industrial-style, height-adjustable steel shade costs £59 from Dwell.

Order at www.dwell.co.uk or visit their showroom in Princes Square, Glasgow.

Q I am looking for two-tier chrome towel rails but all the ones I have seen cost a fortune. Have you seen any bargains that still look good?

A Believe it or not Tesco have just the thing. Their two-tier chrome wall rack is just £14.99 - and you get Clubcard points too. Check out larger stores or order by phone on 0845 600 4411 or online at www.tesco.com

Q My wee girl would love a crystal chandelier in her room but I can't afford to spend too much. Any ideas?

A This little gem costs just £29 from Litecraft in Glasgow. It fits just like a regular shade and has chrome arms with lovely crystals hanging from it. It's good enough for a quick dining room fix of glamour too. Click on www.litecraft.co.uk for more details.

Q I am looking for glass storage jars and containers with air-tight lids for my new kitchen pantry.

A You cannot beat IKEA for good value kitchen accessories.

These jars are just what you are looking for and cost only £4.49. Click on www.ikea.co.uk

Q My aunt is a real coffee nut and I am looking for a coffee-themed present for her 40th birthday.

A The Handpresso Wild is a portable espresso maker that can be taken anywhere. Simply pump the machine up to 16 bar pressure and add hot water and an E.S.E pod then pour and serve.

It costs £79 plus another £19 for the travel case which is brilliant for people who need their coffee fix on the go.

Click on www.silvernutmeg.com or call 01254 820 478 to order.