With the big day only a month or so away, the kitchen really comes into its own at this time of year as we shop, prep and cook our way to the Christmas countdown. Here’s my pick of Santa’s little helpers to set you on your way…

Corian® has always been a firm favourite with consumers and kitchen designers alike and now there’s even more reason to choose this practical, functional and stunning worktop solution – the Corian® Charging Surface incorporates wireless recharging power for smartphones and tablets. Powered by induction technology, the technical properties of Corian allow the charge to be delivered through to the material directly, so now you can use the iPad to follow festive recipes, even if it’s on a low charge. Visit www.corian.co.uk/powerup for more details.

Coffee plays a big part in the festive season; from keeping yourself awake while you wrap presents into the early hours, to serving espresso and cappuccino to family and friends after the Christmas dinner. The Nescafé® Dolce Gusto® Stelia pod coffee machine features intuitive touchscreen technology and an automatic closing head to make it even easier to enjoy great tasting coffee this Christmas. In black, silver or white, it has a 15 bar pump pressure and costs £149.99 from Amazon, Argos, Dixons, Littlewoods, Very and Isme. www.dolce-gusto.co.uk

A good set of pans is a must at any time of year but it’s especially important now, when there is so much to prepare. I’ve just tried out the new Terragan cookware from housewares specialist WESCO and I love the heavy-duty feel, the sturdy handle and the non-stick, easy-clean surface. Suitable for induction hobs, it has a hand cast 9mm distortion-free aluminium base, optimum heat conductivity, titanium oxide plasma coating for exceptional scratch resistance and heat insulated handle. www.wesco-shop.co.uk

Cleaning up is always a chore so now’s the perfect time to invest in a cordless compact vacuum that can cope just as easily with hard floors as well as carpet. The new Bosch Athlet has unique SensorBagless™ Technology for power without the maintenance, durable rechargeable batteries with an extra-long 60-minute run-time, flexible nozzle joint and lightweight design. There are three performance levels, an accessory kit and HighPower AllFloor brush for all surfaces. It costs £199.99 at John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com

If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for the man who has everything, how about a personalised handcrafted wooden box by Whittle & Wallis? Beneath the unassuming exterior lies a myriad of secret drawers, false bottoms and hidden compartments to keep bottles, glasses, corkscrew and other wine paraphernalia neatly stored away. Made from the finest French oak, walnut and other specially selected woods, each box is personally engraved for the ultimate Christmas gift. Prices start at £495. www.whittleandwallis.com

This season I’ve got my eye on Tefal’s new Cuisine Companion – a multifunctional food processor that can blend, chop, emulsify, whip, crush, melt, beat, knead, mix, steam, slow cook and prove – all in one handy appliance. It also comes with a recipe book with over 1 million menu combinations, so you’re sure to never run out of ideas. It costs £699 (www.tefal.co.uk/cuisinecompanion)

Appliance manufacturer Gorenje (www.gorenje.co.uk) has unveiled a brand new design line with internationally renowned designer Philippe Starck. The Gorenje by Starck collection will be available in the UK later this year and was revealed at IFA earlier this year. Watch this space…