Remodelista

A water pitcher (or "jug," as we like to say in the UK) done properly is the perfect embodiment of good design. You might think it's easy to design something so simple, but, in truth, it's a great test for even the most seasoned designer. Not surprisingly, two of my favorites are from that great UK design dynasty, Conran.

Jasper Conran's simple fine bone china jug is part of his White Collection for Wedgwood. £36.60 at wedgwood.com

Sophie Conran designs for Portmeirion; her Celadon White Pircher is available in the US from Amazon; $21 for the medium size.

Heath Ceramics' pitcher is available in a variety of colors for $66 at heathceramics.com

The Studio pitcher from Pottery Barn is surprisingly appealing; $22 from potterybarn.com

Another success story from a mass retailer; the Italian rustic white pitcher for $21.95 from crateandbarrel.com

Cornishware has long been a staple of the British breakfast table; this Cornish Blue Dreadnaught Jug is available from Conran for $39, conranusa.com

Two enamel offerings from the UK: 1.White enamel jug for £15 from one of our favourite British sites, labourandwait.co.uk 2.Enamel retro jug available for £12 from gardentrading.co.uk

Jasper Conran takes the simple pitcher to a new level with this pewter-coated beauty; $125 from his above line at wedgewood.com