We live in restless times - confronted by the growing pressures of a complex world, we yearn for a time when life was simpler and communicaties were supportive and sustainable. We are now witnessing a great need for connection with the earth and our natural environment - sowing seeds, growing vegetables, making jam; creative tasks that allow us to reconnect with rhythms of nature.

Pockets of paradise are re-emerging in many manifestations - tree houses, caravans, log cabins, beach huts. All allow us ways of living more freely, in more immediate touch with nature while taking our responsibilities of recycling and ecology seriously. This balanced approach is nurturing, respectful, responsible and sociable - the growing awareness that we must husband our earth with care and consideration.

Our closeness with nature is reawakened; delicate images of dragonflies and humming birds, the insect world, fragile flora and essential vegetation all remind us of the precious interconnection and interdependency of life on this planet.

Designers are looking for sustainable materials and products that are flexible and adaptable - folding furniture to suit changing mood occasion, accessories at home both outside and in, contemporary expressions of traditional materials, which are simple and practical. Eco design pioneers are recycling, reusing, reclaiming, responding - sourcing sustainability, designing for disassembly, fair trading and inviting interaction between user and product.

This sense of responsible simplicity and respect is reflected in a palette that balances the weathered mid-tones of bark, shale, rust and mustard with the paler botanical shades of pollen, apple and moss. A mix and match approach keeps the mood light and contemporary but it also contains a comforting element of retro fun.

The renewed interest in camping and gardening provides inspiration for funky finishing touches, such as bold plastic fiffin boxes, enamelware and nostalgic yet contemporary ceramics in warm offbeat shades - personal space at one with the world.