The Material Lab, for that is its name, turns out to be a unique concept: part library, part showroom, part inspirational space for designers and architects. It's aimed largely at professionals, but anyone thinking of sprucing up their living space would be well advised to check this place out.

It's a beautifully designed, clean, minimal space with thousands of material samples (not just tiles), design books for perusal, and even a Mac terminal should you want to design your house there and then. If nothing else, it's great for colour and texture inspiration.

The Material Lab is the brainchild of the UK's leading ceramic tile producer, and its research facilities, expert advice and stark interior ensure it's a long way from Homebase, literally and metaphorically.

Best of all it has its very own, delay free, tube station in the basement. Who knew there was a station called Great Titchfield Street? Not me, until today.