Design 55 blog


It is the 10th anniversary of one of the most famous modern designs, the Kartell Louis Ghost Chair. Designed by Philippe Starck he has brought out a limited edition collectors piece with his signature on the backrest.

In just a decade their has been over 1.5 million Louis chairs sold worldwide and this makes it one of the most iconic and recognised designs of the 21st century.

Stock will be limited on this special model, to pre order yours please call our store on 01422 375940.

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With the clocks going back and the nights drawing in now is the perfect time to think about investing in a new ceiling light. Whether it’s for the living room, the hall, the kitchen or a bedroom, at Design 55 we stock what is arguably the world’s finest selection of genuine designer pendants.

From bang on sixties modernism through retro, shabby chic and good old traditional – there’s a lighting installation to suit you and your décor.

To whet your appetite and get your imagination going – take a look at our top ten ceiling lights.

We’ll start with the gorgeous Aperture Pendant.

This to-die-for design comes from Claire Norcross. Undoubtedly beautiful in appearance, it is also stunningly clever. Each of the shutter-like apertures can be twisted open to direct more light to where you want it. This enables it to pull off the rare feat of being a technical delight and seductively feminine at the same time. It goes in any room in any style and its popularity shows no signs of waning.

Available in two finishes and a host of great colours, it’s no wonder the Frandsen Ball Pendant ceiling light is so sought after.

The Ball has been on the market since 1969 – and remains to this day the most iconic of Danish designer Benny Frandsen’s many creations. You can mix this superbly clean-lined classic with matching wall lights and table lamps – or you can hang it anywhere on its own. Why not try it doubled or tripled up over a dining table? This pendant light has epitomised cool for so long owning one is like joining an exclusive club. Apply for membership now here at Design 55.

The Scandinavians are still at it with Verpan’s elegant Spiral SP1 Pendant Light.

Also from 1969, this show-stopping light utilises twisting, cork-screw shapes to fling dancing patterns of light onto weary winter walls  – brightening them up like magic. More relaxing than razzmatazz, this gentle light show is disarmingly restive – just right for the long nights ahead. With its unmistakeable presence and massive wow factor, the Spiral SP1 confers on its owner considerable design credentials.

Then there’s the famous Kartell Fly Ceiling Light.

Form and function hold hands and cuddle up and kiss with this exquisite little number. Inspired by the simple soap bubble, this high Italian design makes the most of its striking hemispherical shade and the iridescent reflections it creates. Beautiful and useful it can be hung anywhere at any height – thanks to its adjustable cable.

Soft and more mellow, but just as desirable, is the Innermost Delight by Mixko.

Butterflies perch beautifully on this great-looking pendant light. It’s so peaceful and restive many a soul would fight tooth and claw to get their hands on one. Stunning as a centrepiece in the bedroom or living room yet gentle and welcoming in a hall or hallway, the Delight is aptly named.

Less traditional but just as timeless is the Fuscia range from those fantastic lighting people at Flos.

Featuring cone shaped glass diffusers hanging from slender cords this great light looks good and what’s more it does a good job. It’s from the designer’s designer – Achille Castiglioni – and it comes in four versions (with one, three, eight or twelve diffusers). Big on compatibility, it looks good with all manner of decors and it’s as happy in a thirties-built semi as it is in a loft apartment or industrial conversion.

And now for something completely different: the Jeeves Bowler Hat Light and the Wooster Top Hat Light by Innermost.

This witty, post-modern suspension light is a real ice-breaker and conversation point. As surreal as anything by Rene Magritte, it references the same artist’s “Ceci n’est pas une pipe”. Except this is a case of a pendant light not being a bowler hat. There’s a matching table lamp also available. A further irony is this is thoughtful, inventive design – not mere novelty. The felt-covered, bowler hat shaped light is lined with softly reflective brushed aluminium for a uniformly dense, warm lighting effect. Use to equally striking effect in any room in the house.

Humble in its inspiration – the acorn – the Normann Copenhagen Norm 69 Pendant light is truly revolutionary.

Designed way back in the sixties by Simon Kharkov, this was the first flat-packed self-assembly pendant light ever to be mass-produced – ultimately paving the way for the likes of Ikea. But let’s not hold this against it. The Norm 69 (made of 69 easy to assemble parts) is as fresh and fabulous as ever, and it’s no wonder it has won so many design awards. It goes with any style of décor, wipes clean, takes energy-saving bulbs and comes in four different sizes.

If you prefer a fully constructed light with similar output and effect, prepare to swoon over Le Klint’s rose-inspired 172 Ceiling Pendant by Poul Christianson.

Made of sleek, smooth moulded plastic, it’s hard to imagine that this design harks back over forty years. It looks so contemporary and yet it’s a modern classic. Graceful and serene, it has a refreshing and inviting appearance – perfect for the cold, dark nights ahead.

Or why not avail yourself of a contemporary design evolved from a timeless classic? A fine example of this is the British-made Aimbry Shimmer Ceiling Pendant.

This drool-inducing crystal glass chandelier unashamedly invokes the excesses of the Roccoco Era. Hang it over your dining table and demand that the peasants eat cake. Utterly beautiful and so simple to install any dunce can do it. Its availability in four colours allows it to meld into just about any decorative scheme.

All of the above pendant lights (and many, many more) are available now to order online from Design 55. All are genuine designer collectibles that will hold their value as well as adding a frisson of style and glamour to the way you live your life. Can you afford to miss out?

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Have you noticed how everyone you know is looking to save money these days? That’s why we’re launching our new Design 55 online magazine newsletter. It’ll be packed with news, product reviews and stunning deals on some of the most popular international designer names.

But you’ll need to re-subscribe to get it and, as a thankyou, when you do your name will go into a prize draw for a Design 55 voucher worth £200.

Newsletter Subscribe

At Design 55 we stock thousands of discounted designer lines for couples and singles planning their new home, wanting to create a new look or seeking to enhance their home with something that combines beauty with functionality for the lounge, kitchen, bedroom or bathroom.

There really is something for everyone, which is why in a few short years we’ve grown to become one of Europe’s leading contemporary furniture, modern lighting and designer home accessories store. We source from many of the world’s top designer brands deliver to customers at some of the chicest addresses, right across Europe.

You’re always welcome to shop in person but with our stock turning over so fast and in any case being far too big for the showroom, most customers prefer to browse and shop online via the website at www.design55online.co.uk .

Don’t miss out click here to re-subscribe and claim your place in the prize draw, rest assured we won’t share your data with anyone else and you are free to unsubscribe at anytime.

Prize Draw Terms & Conditions

  • Entry to the competitions is restricted to one entry per person.
  • Multiple entries will be disqualified.
  • Automated entries, bulk entries or third party entries will be disqualified
  • Winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries.
  • Winner will be contacted via email and their name displayed on our website.
  • The Judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered in to.
  • The competition will run from 01/08/2012 until 31/08/2012
  • The £200 Voucher only to be used in the Design 55 online store before 31/12/2012
  • Design 55 is compliant with the data protection act. Our policy is such that we will not pass on your details to any third party without your prior consent.

Congratulations to Charlotte Dadd as winner of the prize draw she has chosen a good selection of products with her £200 winnings

Black + Blum Fruit Loop

Koziol PIP Clock

Blomus Duo Toilet Roll Holder x2

Fatboy Doggie Lounge

Guzzini Cake Dish

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Pantone is a world renowned language for colour identification and communication a brand that is recognised all over the world for its colourful and bright designs. Summer 2012 is all tango tangerine, from fashion accessories to kitchenware, so why not brighten up your home with some of this seasons trend pieces. Pantone have designed this beautiful iPhone case it easily clips to your phone ensuring that it remains protected but also looks stylish.

This Hard cover is durable and resilient and when attached to your phone acts like a shock cushion so minimises any damage to your phone when it is dropped. The cover also has an anti slip design so chances are you will rarely drop your phone anymore!

Available in a choice of 9 beautiful colours in the Pantone Range, and fits IPhone 4 and 4S, it is perfect for those that always misplace their phone, When this protective cover is attached, it will stand out from miles away.

Diamantini & Domeniconi  have created a modern take on the traditional cuckoo clock, instead of the original 3D model, They have designed a  2 dimensional representation with contemporary materials and details using laser cutting technology. This shades the intricate metal pattern resembling antler horns and trees.

Designed and manufactured from a Lacquered metal with a swinging pendulum. it is available in a wide range of colours to fit in with any interior ; Black, Dark Grey, Light Green, Light Grey, Lilac, Orange, Light Pink, Fushcia Pink, Red, Sky Blue, White, Yellow. Our favourite shade has to be the orange, bright and bold and a great eye catching piece for any room. The cucu clock comes in small and large. Priced at £100 for the small and £237 for the large.

The Baci Baroque drinks pitcher designed by Italian company Baci Milano is a great centre piece for any party or BBQ. This French Baroque inspired pitcher / serving jug will be admired by all your guests. With its intricate detailing and design, and its modern yet elegant look. Made from acrylic it is durable, long lasting and party- proof.

It holds 2 litres and we have a collection of matching items available to purchase in our online store. These are perfect  when you are hosting a garden BBQ in the sun as it is not made of glass. Check out Baci’s other matching pieces from their  Baroque and Rock Range.

Designed by Piero Lissoni, the Kartell Lizz is sleek and elegant in design and adds a pop of colour to any dining room. The chair is actually named after Liz Taylor, inspired by her elegance and class, the simplistic design with clean lines is timeless.

Made from Kartell ‘s signature thermoplastic techno polymer using gas blown technology and manufactured from one single piece, it is multifunctional in design and suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Weather proof, and shock proof, the Lizz Chair is a great all round chair that comes in five colour ways. At Design 55 we have 15% off the Lizz chair and all Kartell Products for a limited time.

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Check out this new innovation designed by Philippe Starck for Kartell. The Miss Less Chair has a cube like monolithic base with a transparent clip on backrest made from polycarbonate. Miss Less is ideal for both home and contract use and can also be used outdoors.  Miss Less is available in 6 different colour combinations, including Starcks trademark shade of Orange.

The Kartell Comback Chair by Patricia Urquiola was featured at the Milan 2012 show it is a revised and a modern take on the classic Windsor chair design of the 18th century, a return of typical English heritage.  The Comeback Chair is constructed through a single mould, large in size and made from Kartell’s signature thermoplastic technopolymer. Available in nine shades, this mix of contemporary and classic is a must have for any Kartell lover.

Another addition to the Ghost Family, the One More,  One More Please Bar Stool by Kartell. Taking elements from their reknowned and signature ghost dining chair, they have now multiplied their ranks with a new stool with two varying heights of 65 cm and 75 cm . There are 2 styles the round being similar to the Victoria Ghost chair and the square the La Marie Ghost chair.

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Looks like we’re in for some more great weather and there is nothing better than a good old BBQ. Here at design 55 we have some great outdoor products that will make your summer even more special.

Not enough space for a BBQ? Or just sick of them leaving them to go rusty and grotty, we all know that it  can be quite a pain when we decide to get the Barbecues out. Either they won’t light or they need a good clean or you own a big state of the art whopper that needs 2 men to lift it out of the shed! That problem has now been resolved with the Black + Blum Hot Pot BBQ. In the shape of a terracotta plant pot, once you remove the lid it reveals a stainless steel grill to cook your food on. A great multipurpose design, you can grow your own herbs and garnish your food from the BBQ with them.

This BBQ is great for balconies and terraces and in any small areas, you won’t be able to cook for a party with this one but its a great and quick way to dine al fresco. The base of the BBQ is heat insulated so will cook your burgers nice and thoroughly but don’t blame us if you burn them unattended! The Black + Blum Hot Pot even comes with its own BBQ tongs.

Why not also check out our Sagaform double burger press, this handy cooking tool compacts the mince meat to produce strong and solid burgers that won’t fall apart on the grill and won’t burn on the outside and stay raw in the middle.  Such a great idea for  BBQ season, at Design 55 we have a top secret recipe to produce the best burgers: use coarsely minced steak (about 15 per cent fat), add both salt & pepper to season the meat and a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a drop of Guinness (you can drink the rest). Mix it all up and bang it in the burger press and boom-you will have a hamburger like no other. Your BBQ’s will be famous for years to come!

With the AUEF euro 2012 upon us our Sagaform football pint glasses, which are  football shaped will go down a hit with any football fanatic and are guaranteed to be a hit when watching football this summer. This quirky design by Sagaform who specialise in creating unique homeware items. These beautiful glasses are no exception they come in sets of two and are priced at £10 so are also pocket friendly. The Volume is 1 pint (470ml) and will be a hit at any summer party.

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Unfortunately we are coming across more and more replica / fake / reproduction furniture being sold over the Internet including the Kartell Louis Ghost Chair.  This issue is affecting young designers as well as established ones from making a living and not to mention manufacturers of the licensed product and retailers.   It also affects the end consumer who thinks they are buying the real deal but are in fact purchasing an inferior product. We have had several phone calls of late with customers telling us horror stories of cheap Chinese copies advertised as authentic models only to be disappointed when they receive the product.

Elle Decoration and Sir Terence Conran have put there heads together in a campaign to fight the fakes as designers in the UK are not protected under the same copyright laws as Music, Film, Drama, Literature and Art. Design is surely an art and is as creative as some of those listed. I would even argue that a Kartell product requires more creative thinking.

The current law did allow the fakers selling these nasty Chinese copies to get away with this carefree. Well not anymore. Last month the government has made it the law that no designs can be copied until 70 years after the original designer has died.

This is hopefully going to send shockwaves to knock off furniture stores with the European design houses able to sue the offending retailers and importers. No to mention young designers being able to make an honest living,  jobs being created and also a much needed boost to the UK economy. This latest law change is set to be worth £7.9 billion to the UK economy.

You can sign the petition in the link below to help support the Design industry being protected.

http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/26273

If you have had a bad experience purchasing reproduction furniture you can name and shame the company on the Facebook page below to help fight the fakes.

http://www.facebook.com/EqualRightsForDesignUK

Design 55 only stock the real deal and authentic furniture direct from the licensed manufacturers. We will soon be posting in the blog how to tell the difference between a fake and real Kartell Ghost Chair.

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This June, people all over the world will be celebrating the Diamond Jubilee. This international celebratory event will mark the anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne of seven different countries after the death of King George IV, in the year 1952. Sixty years have passed since then and the Queen is set to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee over the course of several days. So this gives us a reason to get patriotic and celebrate in style. Whether you’re going to a friend’s party, enjoying the summer weather and having a BBQ here are a few limited edition and great gift ideas to mark this Jubilee weekend  and make it extra special for you (I mean we can’t complain can we, two extra days holiday!)

Alessi have worked with Alessandro Mendini again to create this beautiful version of Alessandro Corkscrew. Alessandro is quite a vain character and likes to dress up for special occasions. Due to the Queens Jubilee, Alessandro has been dressed as a Queens Guard.

Alessandro’s clothes are made from plastic, but the corkscrew is strong and durable being made from Stainless Steel. The perfect gift for any jubilee party or BBQ, this beautiful bottle opener is a must for any Alessi collector. It is a limited edition and each one is numbered so will only be available for a short time, so grab it whilst you can.

This compact mirror is also a great keep sake designed by Ice London, they are a traditionally English based company that specialise in making items with Swarovski elements. This beautiful compact mirror has been designed and released fort  the Queens Diamond Jubilee. The compact mirror features 1 x Magnifying mirror and 1 x Standard mirror. This necessity not only marks a time in history but will also come in handy for many years to come. Elegant and classic, this has to be a must purchase.

Going to a party or just want something to mark a historical moment, well this quirky srving dish does just that. Made by Sagaform, a well known Scandinavian company  have created this out of the ordinary and beautifully designed serving dish.

As the Nation stops to enjoy the Jubilee parties during the month of June, this patriotic serving bowl will make a perfect serving addition to any street party celebration! Forget the classic bunting, when it comes to Cool Britannia- the Brit Bowl by Sagaform Is the stand out themed product everyone will be talking about while sharing a snack or two! However you choose to use this bowl, it is sure to look amazing and stylish and pull the focus of your guests.

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Bobble Jug

After the massive success of the Bobble Bottle inevitably comes the new Bobble Water Jug. It is a transparent acrylic jug that is ergonomically designed to fit nicely in to your fridge door for chilled water.  Simply tilt the Jug and as the water pours it runs through the filter and takes out the impurities for cleaner better tasting water.

The difference between this design and other models on the market such as Brita, is that there is not a frustrating lag time before water is available to drink. This is because the Bobble jug does not have a second reservoir that is separate from the main chamber and it does not have to be filled up before you pour.

The jug is available in 6 colours magenta, red, white, blue, green and black. The filter can last up to 140 liters of water and replacement filters can be purchase at £10.00.

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With it being the start of Summer this week and the weather being at record breaking temperatures what better way than to feature the worlds first outdoor chandelier. The Fatboy Rococco light is a decadent and over the top light fitting that you can hang from a tree, parasol or a sky hook  : )

Named from the Louis XV era when elaborate interior style was called Rockoco, I think King Louis if he was still around would have had a few of these in his garden.

It is made from acrylic so is weather resistant and easy to clean, the bulbs are LEDS and it also features a red electrical cable that adds to the character of the light. The light just needs to be plugged in to an outdoor socket.

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