If you like exotic pictures, statues and ornaments then you'll love this shop. I was amazed at how…read moremuch they sold and was almost captivated by all the products. Their products range from giraffes as tall as you to animal masks to brightly painted pictures to unique African style ornaments. They could really spice up your home. With all this going on it made the shop look a bit cluttered this was a minor issue for me because I was so amazed at the products. Who knew a little taste of the exotic could be so close? The prices are good as well and if you've read any of my other reviews you'll now I like a bargain. The paintings were about ten pounds and small ornaments were on offer for less than £5.00. Being in here temporarily took my mind of the real outside world. If I had the money on me I definitely would have taken something home!

I really like wooden carved ornaments and unique art pieces, so I thrive on visiting these sorts of…read moreplaces. When I first discovered Exotic Homeware, I was literally amazed at the amount of cultural creativity that they sold, especially considering that the store is not far from where I live; I feel like I should have discovered it sooner. From wooden crafted giraffes to elephants to masks to brightly coloured birds to cages to canvases, the shop sells a great selection of organic and hand created objects, which really do make your home look more interesting and cultured. The price of items isn't bad either; usually when you go to similar shops, they put a high cost on these sorts of unique gifts. But here, you can pick up a medium sized collection of three wooden owls for £5! Bargain! I really wouldn't mind buying every item in this shop to be honest. Then I'd be able to develop my own haven of all things exotic to escape the drudgery of Birmingham. (from time to time)

Wow, what a gem! I wish I had discovered this earlier…read more Located within walking distance from Broad St, and has very good transport links, this handy business sells everything from ornaments, furniture, flooring, Chinese antiques and arts, to clothes, fabrics and jewellery that are unique and distinguished in character. This is an ideal shop that has it all to fit out your home with all the decor, and more, whether your a first time buyer, or just in need of some stuff. I really liked this outlet, as it's not like the Ikea's of the shopping world, it's a great independent outlet. You feel like your walking through someones home as it's so nicely fitted out. It would be nice if the shop offered gift vouchers, as there is so much housing in the city. That way, if your not exactly convinced of a purchase, you can still buy a voucher where friends and family can choose instead.

With neighbours including a hair salon, a beauty spa and a newsagents, Curzon's is an unusual…read moreaddition to the mini commercial district in the otherwise residential area along Sheepcote Street near the NIA. Stocking a wide range of Chinese furniture, ornaments and clothing, Curzon's is well worth making the trip. The family-owned business also offers traditional Chinese teas, interpretation and translation services, and tutoring in Mandarin Chinese. The staff are really chatty and happy to assist you with making your purchase, and the shop often has special offers on a wide variety of stock. You might expect a shop like this to be found nearer the Chinese quarter, but given the number of apartment complexes in the immediate area that might benefit from an oriental makeover, it makes sense to something a little closer to home.

Decoron is a specialist decorating store that sells wallpapers, paints, tools and brushes and much…read moremore. It is a family run business that has been running since 1966 and is also an award winning company. If you are looking for a store that specialises in decorating, Decoron could be your answer. Decoron regularly update their showroom with the latest designs and colours but they also offer contemporary and traditional wallpapers. I did like the wallpapers on sale but to be honest they were on the expensive side. Decoron offer a range of paints and colours so there are plenty of paints to choose from. The staff are very friendly and they will help you if you need it. Decoron is worth a visit if you need guidance on decorating a new room(s) or need new wallpapers.

From the outside of Muji I think its quite hard to work out what kind of shop it actually is....the…read moreclothes in the window give the impression of a fashion retailer but you can clearly see office supplies inside the door. Confused I ventured inside to have a look around. The place is a home and fashion retailer stocking stationary, homeware, bedding and clothing. All of the items in the shop are very well designed and have a very crisp vibe. I like the attention to detail in the shop with the very minimalistic approach to the layout making everything very easy to look at at and make your way around. On a personal note there was a cuckoo clock I saw while inside the shop that I think now has my name on.....it was really special. Ill think twice before going in for a look around again it could be an expensive habit!!

Muji can easily be seen from the ramp as you leave New Street station. Head past Jane Norman (on…read morethe corner) and head up towards Centenary and Muji is located on the right hand side. It's a strange old shop, originating from Japan, their mission statement to develop new simple products at reasonable prices by making the best use of materials while considering environmental issues. They sell stationary, bedding, furniture, and clothes. The stuff they produce is very basic and simple, well made but I find that it's rather expensive. (The last time I looked, dressing gowns were £40). I do have a brother who hates labels and likes simple clothes that are enviromentally friendly so for christmas presents it is always worth a look.

This newly opened shop is the latest in a number of excellent independent businesses to set up in…read morethe famous Jewellery Quarter area of Birmingham and it compliments well the many already there. It's a gift shop with a difference, the difference being that profits are reinvested in the good works undertaken in the city by its parent social enterprise. So when you buy something here you also leave behind some added value that's reinvested in the community. I'm not sure whether everything sold is actually produced by other social enterprises, but I think that is the aspiration. The range of stock actually surprised me; there's everything from wrapping paper, scented candles and retro vases to gift boxes filled with all kinds of wonderful stuff, so it's an ideal stop off for Christmas gift hunting. When I popped in I right away found several items to add to my shopping list, including an item or two for those difficult to please folks we all struggle with. The shop itself isn't that easy to notice at present, but it's only been open a few days. If I didn't live within a minute or two I may have missed it, but I had seen the shop had been taken over, having been empty for quite a long time now, so my curiosity was pricked. I'd suggest an A-Board outside to help potential customers notice as they walk down the street. It's got a great old-style but rather discrete frontage that belies the size of the interior. OK, it's not huge but it's actually very nice and bright inside with lots of room for stock. Knowing how the building was before I'd say they've worked hard to bring it up to scratch! The staff are pleasant and attentive but don't hassle or linger. I felt quite comfortable browsing. While the shop had one or two people in while I was there, three staff did seem like overkill, but it's clearly great work experience for them and that's part of the social enterprise idea I guess. They'll probably need three as we approach Christmas! This end of Vyse Street was fairly dead when I first moved here but over the last few years has picked up nicely. This is a lovely and welcome addition, very well located close to the brilliant, rather fascinating JQ museum and a couple of excellent cafés, one a traditional egg and chips place, possible the best in the area, the second more a deli and tea shop (also really good). So you can have a walk down the street checking out the jewellery (remember to haggle!) and the famous museum, pop into Citizen Home for a few gifts and a browse, then finish off with some lunch or a decent cuppa! I wish the business well - a great idea that seeks to make the world a better place!

From the owner: We provide gifts and homewares with a bit of a twist! Many of our products are ethically sourced…read morefrom social enterprises and local businesses. We are always keen to add more locally produced products- pop in and say hi

This tiny but beautifully formed shop is tucked off Knowle High Street so might take a bit of…read morehunting down. The quest would be worth it as you will find some adorable pieces and find it difficult to not buy anything at all. The theme is home decor and interiors store stocking French Country and New England styles. They also stock British designer Bronte's At Home blankets - they were around £70 so not cheap but very beautiful.

This is just one of those shops you love as soon as you walk in.There is something for…read moreeveryone,price wise some things are reasonable,and there are the larger items which are a lot more expensive.There are beautiful light holders,pottery,throws,dressers etc.I could go on,the staff are always friendly and helpful too.I challenge you to pay them a visit and not buy anything.My husband and I have not manged this so far,its heaven.I love showing my friends and family what I have bought,they love everything too.Roll on Christmas,if your looking for something different,elegant,stylish without breaking the bank go, you know you want to, happy shopping.

A fantastic addition to Banbury's old town area. Whether you are looking for a 'statement piece' to…read moreanchor a room or the perfect accent to finish off a shelf or cosy corner, this is the place for you. Also a must if you need to buy a gift for the interior decor fiend in your life. Have bought both gifts and treats for myself here and it's always a shopping highlight for me. Fab stuff and helpful proprietor.

From the owner: Independent shop specialising in one off vintage painted furniture pieces, decorative antiques,…read moreinteriors & lifestyle. Frenchic Chalk Paint Stockist & tutor. Based in Parsons Street, Banbury and within Banbury Antiques Centre.

This store is in the Upper Mall, next to Laura Ashley. It looks very warm and inviting, especially…read morewith it's very impressive double fronted window display. Inside you can purchase handcrafted gifts, plus much more, which range from home decoration with a shabby chic style to individually handmade cards and stationery. I liked the design and layout - every where you looked there was something to behold! As with many of these "shabby chic" type of stores, there was a great deal of various shades of white, cream, beige and grey. Which does look nice, especially with pastel shades thrown in. But I have to wonder, how long will our love of all things "vintage & shabby chic" last? Oopsy Daisies supports the Rheumatology Department at Russells Hall Hospital through the sales received.

Nice big store, get all your electric goods here. From fidges to television sets. Buy new goods and…read moreget your old electronics serviced and repaired.

From the owner: DJ, PA & Lighting equipment Hire & Repair servicesread more