17 AUGUST 2002, Page 59

Q. I have been invited to stay in Northamptonshire with

a man who has everything. Can you recommend a novel house-present? NA., London W6 A. Humidor-designer Kitty Arden has recently knocked up a charming range of plywood pet coffins. There is no need for your host to be anticipating an imminent bereavement: the brightly painted boxes in assorted animal shapes — though never intended to provoke merriment — have been snapped up as decorative storage boxes. The small dogand cat-sized ones have been placed in entrance halls, where they serve as cheerful receptacles into which mobiles and car keys can be tidied. Customised coffins from Kitty Arden start at £30 (01285 841434).