Q. I am looking for a small table that can be mounted on the wall and folds down when not in use. I have only found one at Ikea, but I am hoping to find a stylish but useful solution. Thank you.

A. The IKEA one is unbeatable at its price. Hafele hafele.co.uk supplies a kitchen table which can be retracted into the interior of kitchen units, available through builders' merchants like Nu-Line (www.nu-line.net). You can also try Domain (www.domainuk.co.uk); they distribute a range called Magis, which has a very upmarket 'Clino-Retractable-Wall-Table'. If you'd like one made for you to order, try Tablemakers tablemakers.co.uk.

Q. Can you please advise me where to buy reasonably-priced acrylic curtain poles and finials?

A. As the material is expensive, and the poles need to be of a certain size, acrylic or Perspex is not an inexpensive choice. I have spoken to Bryony Alexander and they say that high street shops (i.e. John Lewis) might offer less expensive poles, but if they are less than 35 ml they will probably bend in time. However, Bryony Alexander's set range (35 ml poles with a choice of about 5 finials) is one option. They recommend that for every 1.5m of curtain you will need a centre bracket, unless you opt for a 50 ml. pole. bryonyalexander.com.

Q. I am looking for a supplier of raw/unlacquered brass curtain poles. Who would you suggest?

A. Most manufacturers with brass poles in their collections can supply them unlacquered, from the trade supplier Hunter & Hyland www.hunterandhyland.co.uk to the top range from McKinney & Co, which can be custom made in the finish of your choice. mckinney.co.uk

This invaluable online directory features a large database of more than 3,500 companies covering all aspects of interior and garden design and decoration. It’s the essential resource both for professionals and for the general public.

Go to www.thehousedirectory.com

Alternatively, e-mail us a question via questions@thehousedirectory.com