So has Brother Max managed this with its Scoop highchair? When assembled and on first assessment the Scoop really is unique design-wise, and would certainly look extremely stylish in a minimalist kind of home where walls are white and clutter is unheard of (sadly not my home!). It’s a real feature piece – something you buy, knowing you’re happy to have it on display, and looks-wise, it is rather attractive!
The Scoop is fairly large and bulky so it tended to dominate in my breakfast room, unlike my current highchair, which fits neatly under the table. It’s also heavy, so not at all easy to move about from one location to another where steps are involved. It has castors for feet though so fine if you're all on one level. However, once Jack, 12 months, was in his Scoop its qualities started to become clear…
What we love
The Scoop is so unusual people will ask you what it is and where you got it. Also, in large contemporary kitchens the Scoop is going to blend in, rather than look plastic and garish like so many other highchairs.
Most impressively there is a pneumatic lift (operated with a foot pump), which means the Scoop can be adjusted to any height you like – for feeding at the table, or at a breakfast bar say. Also the chair rotates 360 degrees, which is brilliant for feeding. My monkey normally spends most meals twisted away from me and the dreaded spoon – not possible in the Scoop! Also because there are very few fiddly parts to the Scoop it is also extremely easy to clean up any mess once the meal is finished.
Finally, although this highchair is expensive, it does last until a child is about five, and it can be used with babies as young as six months, if you purchase a Scoop highchair seat insert to go with it (some retailers throw this liner in with the chair).
What to watch out for
Set aside a bit of time (and space) to assemble the Scoop and be prepared for its footprint (the base) - it's enormous and doesn't tuck out of the way like other designs on the market.
Who is the Brother Max Scoop best for?
Minimalist mums happy to pay a premium price for a premium design.
Like Marmite you'll either love it or you'll hate it, but if your home makes people sigh with envy or you love design-savvy baby kit, the Scoop will win your heart. Despite its good looks, it also has great practical features like the pneumatic lift feature for versatile height adjustment and 360 degree rotation. However, the Scoop comes with a high price tag that will put it out of reach for many mums.
