A decorative jug or vase can give an overlooked corner a sense of purpose. It might bring warmth to a plain shelf, add a playful shape to a sideboard or make a small arrangement of dried stems feel considered. Our Portland Living selection explores all three possibilities.
We have chosen four pieces for Mzube: the Sabrina Jug, Sunflower Jug, Terracotta Cici Jug Vase and Two Toned Fish Vase. Together they capture the balance we look for in homeware: appealing shapes, everyday styling possibilities and just enough quirkiness.
What is Portland Living, and how is it connected to Gainsborough Giftware?
Portland Living is a British gift and interiors brand offered exclusively by Gainsborough Giftware. Its collections draw on a mix of rustic farmhouse influences and classic home styling, alongside seasonal designs for the home and garden.
Gainsborough Giftware began as a family business founded by Peter Drinkall in 1977. In our catalogue, these products appear under Gainsborough Giftware x Portland Living. Portland Living is the interiors brand to look for; the combined catalogue name reflects its relationship with the supplier.
The four pieces we have picked are particularly suited to homes where natural texture and a little character matter more than perfect matching. Some lean earthy and understated; others use illustration or an unexpected silhouette to become a focal point.
Explore Portland Living vases and jugs at Mzube
Sabrina Jug Medium, 23cm
The medium Sabrina Jug measures 23 x 16cm and has a rustic surface in natural colours. Each piece is individually handmade, so small variations and imperfections are part of its character. We would style it on a sideboard with faux foliage or a few dried stems, allowing the shape and texture to do most of the work. Although an interior seal has been applied, the supplier does not guarantee that it is fully waterproof; it is best treated as a decorative vessel rather than assumed suitable for holding water.
Explore Sabrina Jug Medium, 23cm
Sunflower Jug, 27.5cm
The Sunflower Jug combines burnt orange and buttercup yellow with sunflower illustrations. At a listed 27.5cm, it has enough presence to act as a focal point on a dresser or console. Display it on its own for a clear view of the decoration, or use dried or faux stems to continue the warm, rustic feel. We are presenting this as a decorative jug: the listing does not establish that it is suitable for serving drinks.
Terracotta Cici Jug Vase, 21.5cm
The Terracotta Cici Jug Vase brings an earthy tone and a rounded presence to a shelf or table. Its listed dimensions are 21.5 x 20.5 x 18cm, so allow enough room for its width as well as its height. This is another handmade piece, with natural variations between items. An interior seal is applied, but full water resistance is not guaranteed. Dried or faux stems are a straightforward way to enjoy it while protecting the surface underneath.
Explore Terracotta Cici Jug Vase, 21.5cm
Two Toned Fish Vase, 20.5cm
The Two Toned Fish Vase is the playful choice in our selection. Its fish shape and two-tone glazed finish add a coastal reference without needing a whole room of nautical accessories. Measuring 20.5 x 12 x 7cm, it can bring interest to a narrow shelf or a small sideboard arrangement, provided the surface is stable and clear. We would display it beside simpler objects so its silhouette stays easy to appreciate.
Explore Two Toned Fish Vase, 20.5cm
How to choose the right vase for your room
Think about the surface first. A narrow shelf needs a different shape from a large dining table, so compare the product dimensions with the space before choosing. Leave a little clear space around a decorative vessel rather than filling every gap.
For a quieter look, start with the Sabrina or Cici and build around their texture. For warmer colour, the Sunflower Jug makes a natural focal point. If your room already has plenty of neutral objects, the fish vase introduces a more unexpected shape.
Can these decorative jugs hold fresh flowers?
Do not assume every decorative jug is watertight. The Sabrina and Cici listings specifically say full water resistance is not guaranteed. Use dried or faux stems in these pieces, or enjoy them empty. For any other vase, check the individual product’s suitability before adding water, and protect delicate furniture.
These are small styling decisions, but they help you choose an object you will enjoy using and displaying. Follow the product links above to explore each piece’s details and current availability.
Brand background: Portland Living brand story and Gainsborough Giftware history.
