Autumn Fair 2011 - Home Sweet Home

The first week in September marked my annual trip to Autumn Fair at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre. As a designer, there's no better way to get a snapshot of all that's at the cutting edge of homeware and gifts for the coming year. Then follows the job of researching all the exciting products I've seen and posting a taste of the show for you on here (or formerly on my Work In Progress).

At every visit a different sector catches my eye and this time it was the furniture. This year, designers are aiming for a traditional, practical feel delivered with lots of creative flair.

So if you want to get your home on-trend for 2012, take a look at these sample products from just a few of my favourite exhibitors.

Go for reproduction antique furniture throughout your house and garden. If you can't afford designer prices, scout around for second-hand goods you can paint and upholster.

T3048T Farmhouse Dining Table from PD Global

PFJ218 Toulouse Heart Backed Chair by PD Global

R1-9125-SL Lacquered Silver Dressing Table with Tri Mirror by Trade Fair International

SUN004 Curlicue Patio Set by PD Global

Dress your rooms up with lots of homely nick-nacks, cosy soft furnishings and Granny's homespun wisdom.

No more lonely mugs for one, brew up a pot for the whole family and hand round those cakes!

Cup Cake Spotty With Candle Teapot by Carter's Ceramic Designs

Allegra Cushion by Malini

Bird Cage Key Holder by Heaven Sends

Distressed Wooden Frame Blue by Heaven Sends

Kitchen Rules Metal Sign by Heaven Sends

Make a statement with big, ornate mirrors. They're not only dramatic and practical but also an eco-friendly way to add extra light to north-facing rooms.

Wooden Carved Mirror by Trade Fair International

Get creative with clocks. This massive 55cm diameter hands-only timepiece can be mounted as-is or you could stencil numbers onto your wall or surround it with 12 little picture frames to make it the centrepiece of your room.

Little Big Time Chain Steel Wall Clock by Karlsson at Present Time

Look out for more Autumn Fair highlights coming soon!