Susan Aldridge is a vibrant young woman who enjoys interior design at Hamma Galleries, located on One Lane Hill, Hamilton.

She has been in the business for a decade and describes their inventory as, `a neutral palate, contemporary with a mix of traditional and casual'.

Everyone wants their home looking its best during the holiday season and if you are looking for a special accent piece or a whole new look for a room Hamma's eclectic assortment will provide interesting options.

Hamma Galleries started with interior designers with a retail store. Today they continue to help clients beautify home interiors and the initial consult is free.

They look at your floor plans and designs and help you make comfortable choices to suit your style.

"One of the greatest challenges of my job is getting the mix right. As a buyer I use a timeless standard of classical pieces; we have many wonderful antique reproductions from abroad,'' she said.

You will find some old pieces from Asia, tribal rugs from Turkey and delightful furniture from England, France, Italy and the US.

The De Bournais Collection is exceptional and is quick to catch your eyes.

Using a blend of aged and new French cherry, walnut and oak, each piece is entirely hand-crafted in the small village of Braslou, located in France's Chateaux Country.

Ms Aldridge said: "De Bournais does not make `suits' of furniture so the De Bournais pieces should be used and `sprinkled' in an eclectic manner.'' A true antique connoisseur collects and cherishes antiques individually as each piece has a beauty and a story of its own.

The Schooner Collection pieces are modelled after items which would have been found in the guests' quarters of a turn-of-the-century Schooner ship.

Most of the pieces have `secret' hiding spaces and compartments in which the ship's captain could keep his valuables safely hidden.

Another favourite is Chalon, a fine example of quintessential handmade English country furniture.

The antique paint colours of green, blue and yellow dress up the 18th century furniture designs produced for the entire home from kitchen, bedroom, study and library to occasional furniture.

Ms Aldrige will be happy to help you make your Christmas selections for your home. If you are looking for old world charm or something different Hamma Galleries should be at the top of your wish list.

Imagine this handsome desk as a gift to yourself This handsome desk and chair, from Hamma, would make a find gift for anyone.

Hamma Galleries is the place for style Hamma offers the latest in furniture trends and choices to enhance your home.

From Hamma Galleries, a stripped Empire Deborne chest.