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Less is More at Avenue Road
There are all kinds of gorgeous, high-end stores in Toronto that I've never blogged about because frankly, if I can't afford to shop there, what's the point? But I'm making an exception with Avenue Road, partly because there's such a buzz about the place, partly because it's so darn beautiful and partly because it was designed by hometown boys George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg whose stellar work is also the subject of a gorgeous new coffee table book.
My Kelly Wearstler Moment
Tuesday, April 13, 2010 by Chris
LA-based interior designer Kelly Wearstler set off an avalanche of criticism when she unveiled her new direction in an October 2008 Domino cover story. The blogosphere was apopletic over her sudden style shift toward chunky 1970s and '80s furnishings and I admit I added my voice to the chorus. But as I've seen more and more of this new Wearstler work published, I've warmed to the vibe, if only because it stands in such refreshing contrast to the overdose of mid-century modern evident practically everywhere else.
Bev Hisey Christmas Sample Sale
Monday, November 30, 2009 by Chris
I have no idea which cushions, carpets, runners and blankets Toronto textile artist Bev Hisey will be discounting at her annual Christmas sample sale December 3 - 5 but Bev, if you've got one of those orange, felted wool numbers, above left, put my name on it! Hisey has been really branching out lately with some exquisite new lines; I especially love her wildly vibrant carpets, above, although I'd be surprised to see any of those being sold at a discount.
Let There Be Lotte
Friday, November 20, 2009 by Chris
INabstracto's Kate Eisen and sometime partner Duncan Farnan hit the motherlode recently when they stumbled upon an old warehouse with an impressive stock of vintage Lotte Lamps, circa 1964. The lamps ($195 each) have their original shades and original tags but Eisen and Farnan have rewired them to today's safety standards. Colors include coral, dark blue, robin's egg, golden yellow, celadon, brown and white.
Canadian Cool: Russell Spanner
Friday, October 23, 2009 by Chris
In my Home Show talk about buying vintage furnishings I noted that the best quality vintage furniture inevitably comes with the highest price tags but is also the most likely to escalate in value. As long as the item's provenance can be confirmed, a costly purchase is likely to hold and gain value as the years tick along, provided that you take good care of it. I'm not sure who said it but if you buy the best, you cry only once.
Thursday, August 5, 2010 by Chris
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