End Space Nightmares With A Fold-Down Bed

Jun 29 2008 John Amabile

Q Where can I get a pull-down bed?

I'm really struggling for space.

A The Stowaway Topliner folds out from a wall cabinet and comes in three sizes - 3ft, 4ft 6in and 5ft. Or try the Stowaway Sideliner, a 2ft 6in or 3ft bed which folds out length-ways. Get both at www.hyder int.com. Prices vary according to size.

QCan you recommend a reliable firm to clean my rugs?

A You won't be disappointed by the quality of service on offer from Access Cleaning Solutions Ltd. They are members of the National Carpet Cleaners Association and all staff are professionally trained. They are also fully insured and their prices are very competitive. Call 0141 221 7355 or visit www.accesscleaningsolutions.co.uk

Q Where can I get Oriental-inspired furniture and accessories?

A From rugs and occasional furniture to throws and room fragrances, Edinburgh's Bohemia Design (0131 478 9609) is an oasis of goodies. Shop online at www.bohemiadesign.co.uk

Q I have friends who live abroad and I want to send them a nice Scottish-themed gift. I can't afford to spend too much but don't want anything cheap and tacky. Any ideas?

A Forget the usual Scottish pressies such as Nessie ornaments and baskets of shortbread. Instead, check out these gorgeous tartan towels, above.

These luxurious items are far more stylish than the novelty kilt-print towels currently in all the shops. They come in a range of colours but I love the understated slate.

A hand towel is £6, the bath towel is £9.95 and bath sheet is £14.95. You can also have them personalised. For details, visit www.towels.co.uk or call 01903 891 755.

Q I have an old chair with a decorative wicker backing that is in urgent need of repair. Do you know a company that can help?

A Designs On You II in Dumbarton Road, Glasgow, specialise in upholstery but also offer wicker and rattan repair. Their experienced and professional team even includes French polishers. Call 0141 339 8829 for more information.

Q Where can I get a desk for my French countryside-themed room?

A Belle Maison create beautiful Frenchstyle furniture and their latest Louis XV range includes an elegant wooden Bureau in an authentic-looking, distressed cream. It's £395 but this item is of the finest quality. For more details and products, visit www.bellemaison.com or call 0870 850 6207.

Q I want to start recycling and have created a compost heap. I've been saving food waste to add to it but taking it outside every day is a pain. Is there a container I can buy for this purpose?

A There is indeed - the Compost Pail from Drinkstuff. This stainless steel container looks good enough to keep on display and will hold your kitchen waste for days before you need to transfer it to your garden heap. Carbon filters mean it won't emit any nasty pongs and there is a handle to make it easy to carry. It's also dishwasher safe and won't rust. Creating a compost heap is a great way to help the environment by recycling kitchen waste. You can compost many things, such as veg peelings, tea bags, coffee grounds, herbs, eggshells and cardboard cereal packets. Get your Compost Pail for just £29.99 from www.drinkstuff.com or by calling 0870 428 0958.

It's time to liven up dull kitchens

Q Where can I get a brightly coloured clock for my modern kitchen? Nothing too expensive please.

A I love these floral mirror clocks from EZ Style. They are available in vibrant shades of lime, sky blue, pink or red and cost just £25 - designer style at a bargain price. Snap up yours online at www.ezstyle.co.uk or call 08456 520 525 for more information.

Q Where can I get a handle for my bath to help making getting in and out easier?

A Easylife's Bath Grab Bar is easy to fit and sturdy, so you won't have to worry about slipping or bending. It also adjusts in size to suit bath widths of 2in to 4in. It's £19.99 from www.easylife group.com or call 0870 300 3040.