Picture this; a rabbit on a trampoline, a pig on a scooter and a horse watering the garden, we must be talking about the quirky yet stylish new brand HAM.
After browsing through the creations brought to life by founder Jo Robinson I was pleasantly met with a range of homeware that is just my cup of tea. I really appreciate the idea of unusual and fun designs and I think HAM have managed to achieve just that. The combination works well incorporating the quirky and the functional and I imagine the simplistic black and white ‘silhouette’ or ‘cutout’ styles of the products would work well in many a home, adding a touch of fun and style.
You can tell that Jo has considered her roots when designing the current range, growing up on a farm with her pig Primrose; all of her designs feature a pig, a horse or a rabbit. The quirky element comes from a creative imagination that situates the animals in unlikely and unexpected moments. The way in which they have been designed demonstrates a contented animal going about a routine as if it were human; this witty humor is quintessentially British.
With their British farmyard inspired designs comes a strong belief in supporting the British industry for HAM. They have spent some time choosing the right suppliers for their products, “We are proud to say that our mugs are created by a pottery in Stoke-on-Trent, the cards are printed by a family run press in Herefordshire, all fabric goodies are Lincolnshire made and our photographic prints are fashioned by founder Jo’s fair hand.” So not only will you be adding a touch of amusing modern design to your home, you’ll be supporting the British industry along the way. The current stock consists of bone china mugs, which are made in one of the few remaining potteries and decorated by hand. A range of greeting cards printed on thick matte paper, made by a family-run press. Aprons and tea towels made from premium 100% cotton. As well as unique gelatin silver photogram prints which are handmade by Jo in London.
It’s hard for me to choose just one item as my personal favourite as I actually really like the whole range, which is saying something in itself. If I were to choose it would have to be either the bouncing rabbit tea towel for its innocence and playfulness or the horse photogram print with its proud tilt of the head and sophisticated design. I would definitely recommend browsing the website for some great gift ideas, but if you are anything like me you’ll probably end up buying something for yourself…
HAM are passionate about what they do and I believe this is reflected in their products. This is definitely one to keep and eye on, particularly with their range continuing to grow next year. I’m sure we can expect some original designs and adventurous animals added to the collection. If you are attending the Winchester Christmas market this year (8th – 21st December) you will be able to see some of the HAM products there, if not they will be at the Top Drawer Spring/Summer market fair in Earls Court, London from the 15th – 17th January 2012.
