Forget about seasonal trends – it’s all about the art of design. Inform Interiors has been showcasing the best that the world of industrial design has to offer for 20 years. Under the direction of designer Niels Bendtsen, the multi-level showroom inspires with its extensive contemporary furniture and light displays, design bookstore, and collection of rare “museum” pieces on view.
Visualize a room with chic neutrals and pops of colour – that’s the essence of espace d. The Scandinavian-inspired boutique displays classic décor, eco-friendly accessories, and vibrant paintings done by local artists. Each item is handpicked by interior designer, Pierre Derreumaux, who discovered most of the shop’s selection while shopping for clients in Montreal and Paris.
Bright and electic are two words that describe Parliament’s collection. The shop curates a colourful mix of modern furniture and home accessories, many of which are locally designed. Discover some very unique botanicals – including zebra-striped haworthias – by Kermodi Living Plants displayed at the very back of shop. Parliament has an endearing (and very noticeable) love for owl-themed decor that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
With a penchant for Parisian décor, L’Atelier Home decorates its all-white space with lush furniture and metallic accents. This boutique carries an air of romance, displaying Moroccan leather poufs, upcycled vintage, and unique candles inspired by the neighourhoods in Vancouver (we’re loving the musky-scented Gastown candle). L’Atelier also offers a custom refurbishing service where shoppers can transform an old piece into a new gem.
At Litchfield, less is more. Inspired by the idea of making small moments more enjoyable, Johnathon Litchfield carefully curates a selection of everyday products constructed with quality craftsmanship. Products have been chosen with functionality in mind – you’ll find everything from titanium coffee mugs to a ‘flavour thesaurus’ full of pairings and recipes for aspiring chefs.
If you find yourself staring at blank walls, consider it as a canvas for decorative art prints. The Berlin-based LUMAS Gallery has opened its first Canadian store in Gastown, and retails limited editions and museum-quality art photography starting as little as $100. With a rotating selection of featured works by renown artists, each visit will surely spark some visual ideas.
Old Faithful revives the best kind of nostalgia. Reminiscent of an old-fashioned trading post, the modern-day general store is chock-full of beautifully crafted kitchenware, elegant ceramics and gourmet treats. Their unqiue collection has sparked the interest of Kinfolk Magazine and those with a fine appreciation for trustworthy, well-built heirloom pieces.
After completing their Masters at Central Saint Martin’s University of Arts, Fredrick and Julie opened Orling & Wu to display a fresh collection of European design-led products and signature gifts. The pair have impeccable taste, and offer in-depth home styling advice in wallpaper, drapery and upholstery for existing or new furniture creations.
