Once the domain of collectors, the Magpie x Hornsea midcentury modern homeware range brings back classic designs at a more affordable price.
Pretty much every collector’s fair and antique shop has something like this in its collection. Hornsea is a much-loved maker, and with the trend for midcentury modern design, its reputation continues to grow.
But in recent years, the company hasn’t been around, which has meant higher prices unless you got lucky in a charity shop or car boot. We have, now and again, with designs not dissimilar to these in our home. They are getting harder to find, though, and if you do spot any, the condition can be a factor, too. So it’s great to see Magpie jumping in to fill the void.
You might know Magpie from the Peanuts homeware collection, the 1950s record racks, and, of course, the much-loved Atomica plant stands. It’s a company that does ‘retro’ very well. So, the perfect candidate to take up the Hornsea label.
Hornsea started up in 1949 and became a sizeable maker in the UK, helped along by a cutting-edge creative team in the mid-20th century, producing some wonderful and eye-catching ceramics. But it wasn’t to last, and the factory closed in 2000. The company might have ended, but as you can see here, some of the more appealing designs live on – and without breaking the bank.
The new range covers every corner of the home and is designed to look good in the home, as well as being perfect for gifting. Check out the packaging, which has got as much attention as the items themselves. I’ve already invested in some to give this Christmas.
There is a bold collection of mugs, storage jars, espresso sets and plant pots, all in hand moulded and hand-glazed stoneware, as well as dishes, cruet sets, money boxes, and coasters.
Not just ceramics either. The range also uses the work of the design team, including the illustrations of Hornsea Design Director John Clappison on an extensive range of tea towels and cushions too. Great for the home, and some would be absolutely perfect for a kid’s bedroom. Money boxes, especially.
I have picked out a selection of my favourites, but do have a look yourself as the range is much wider, and the colour options are also there for all of the items, so if you are colour matching, good news, as the retro shades here are lovely.
As for price, well, yes, it is an affordable range compared to other ‘designer’ reissues I have seen in the past. Mugs and plant posts start at around £14/£15 each, and storage jars, too, depending on the size. Those lovely cruel sets are just under £30, the money boxes are priced similarly, and a coaster set is £17.95.
Tea towels are just £14.95, and if you want a cushion, they are priced at around £45. As I said, there is great gifting potential and plenty of time still to order.
