Web Watch: Furnishings and Lighting

1. Umbra: 31 years ago graphic designer Paul Rowan made a window shade for his apartment, teamed up with friend Les Mandelbaum... and Umbra was born.

Function, funky and very cool, they sell modern pieces at okay prices. The jewellery storage stuff is gorgeous, especially the Muse tub ring holder. There’s lots here to covet.

* www.umbra.com

2. Hidden Art: This site is a not-for-profit organisation supporting designers and designer-makers. There’s two elements to this site, a blog which is mainly concerned with events and promotions in the UK and a shopping option with some really beautifully designed items. There’s an Eco Shop tab, a Gift tab, Jewellery and Fashion and my favourite — Lighting. Check out the Dublin Cityscape lampshade.

* www.hiddenart.com

3. 5 Min: The idea behind this website is straightforward — anything can be explained via video in five minutes. In the home section, there’s a lot to choose from — from 5 Ways to Clean With Vinegar to Inexpensive Make Over for Your Home. In the interest of research I watched that last one. The basic gist is change the light bulbs and declutter old plants. I just saved you 5 mins.

* www.5min.com