condobox

Light it Up

2012-03-06T09:04:00.001-08:00

While it’s so easy to pick lighting based on the aesthetic of the piece, there is so much more to bringing light into a room. This is one of the most important elements of design. How light enters and fills a room is what creates the atmosphere and the mood of the room. A poorly lit room has a heavy, dreary feeling and can give a person a headache or tire them out. Likewise, a very bright room can cause a headache and create a stark feeling in the space. Ever noticed how those florescent lights in schools, offices, hospitals and conference centers feel invasive? Soft, yellow light bulbs are much more inviting.

There is a comfortable balance between too much and not enough light and this can be found based on the utility of the room. Brighter light is used in the kitchen, living room, foyer and dim lighting is usually found in dining rooms, family rooms and bedrooms. It’s great to have the option of changing the amount of light in a room with a dimmer switch for artificial light and window covering for natural light. Placement of lights is just as important – what’s the use of a reading lamp if its position creates a shadow over your book?

There are five general types of light, and every room should incorporate between 3-5:

Natural light – through windows and skylights, this is the most pleasant type
Overhead light – pot lights and bright pendant lights
Accent light – used to highlight books, artwork or displays
Task light – for reading, cooking, working etc
Decorative light – doesn't provide much light for the room, but looks pretty (such as candles)

This condo has lots of natural light flowing in to the dining and living rooms

Left: overhead lighting; right: accent lighting on the stairs

Floor lamp with adjustable head - great for task lighting

Wall sconce with mirrored ribbons doesn't provide much light but is great decoration

How can you instantly expand your space?

2012-03-03T11:43:00.001-08:00

...with mirrors!

Mirrors are like decorative windows—they bring light into a room and create depth. In our clients small condos, mirrors are great tools for making a space feel more expansive, airy, and open.

Come and see this mirror for yourself in our showroom!

Mirrors can also be placed to emphasize colours in a room by reflecting a painting, a fabric, or a wall colour.

CX design project.

New Colours for the New Season!

2012-03-02T11:28:00.000-08:00

Last summer it was all about neon – bold, bright and great against a nice tan. This season we’re seeing more pastels, which are easier to wear but most importantly, they’re easier to incorporate into your home.

Whether you’re looking for a new colour to go on the walls, a new sofa in a fresher colour than that ordinary grey, or headboard with an impact, pastels are where it’s at. They’re sophisticated, timeless, and work well together.

Louis Vuitton SS2012, photo from Garance Dore

Chanel SS2012, photo from Garance Dore

Prada Clutch for the working girl, photo from Columbine Smille

Zara pumps

Our new Nicole Storage bed has a headboard upholstered in a supple cream, one of the most versatile colours. It's soft, as most pastels are, and goes beautifully against our mint-green wall. (The photo doesn't do any justice to the colour on the wall - come check it out in our showroom for the full effect!)

The minty-green wall, see colour below

Palladian Blue from Benjamin Moore

Blogging through Pictures: Pinterest

2012-03-01T10:16:00.001-08:00

They say a picture says a thousand words...

Last week, Condobox started its own pinterest account. Pinterest is a pinboard-style photo sharing website. It allows you to ‘pin’ images that you love on the web onto virtual ‘pinboards.’ No longer do we need to keep a shoebox full of magazine clippings that inspire us (and collect dust) – it can all be done online and neatly organized into themed pinboards.

CX clients can now build their own pinboard of images that they love and bring them into the showroom on their smart phone to give the CX designer they are working with a sense of their design aesthetic.

Here are some of the images that we have pinned under our board, 'Inspiration':

Mason Jars seem to have so many uses these days - but this chandelier is pretty fun.

A chalkboard headboard - a simple way to keep track of your dreams! Just be careful of chalk dust...

Pack your things in style! Pre-labelled storage boxes.

Great fabric!

Unexpected...

Looking Back: CX History

2012-02-25T10:26:00.001-08:00

Our first logo!

The year was 2003. It was 10am on March 12^th. Roomy, a 800sqft furniture store opened its doors for the first day of business, ready to conquer the small space market. Joanna, owner, designer and the only employee of Roomy at that time, made her first sale that day– a sweet smelling candle for $4. Who knew that this would transform into what is now, Condobox.

Our first custom storage bed! At this time, we also offered custom artwork.

Joanna Kakkavas, CEO of Condobox, always says that when things are meant to be – they happen. In grade 9, Joanna remembers hearing the description of ‘entrepreneur’ in her marketing class for the first time, at that moment she said to herself “that’s going to be me” Fast forward 15 years later and not feeling very inspired by working for someone else (and frankly – sick of only being able to take 2 weeks of vacation) she knew it was her time to take a leap of faith and go for it on her own.

July 10th, 2003. Roomy is featured in the Toronto Star.

Walking down King Street, Joanna stepped into a store that was selling wall beds that was very suitable for her concept of furnishing small condos. The owner asked her where her showroom would be and she didn’t quite know, he happened to mention the building next door would be available for rent in two weeks and Joanna didn’t hesitate. When things start to flow you have to go with it—and move quickly! The next month, Roomy opened up on 250 King East.

Our first showroom! Now Yoo's Deli & Variety.

During the first year in Buisness, Roomy raised $900 for breast cancer (a modest start). Since the beginning, giving back to our community has been very important to us. We are so excited to have launched the Open Box Foundation Dec. 2011.

With only 25K in savings, just enough to cover first and last month’s rent and inventory – the business needed to take off quickly. And did it ever. Roomy got a lot of attention as being one of the only furniture store specializing in condo living. (In fact, Joanna only signed a two year lease – because she knew that if the business didn’t grow within two years, it wouldn’t be worth it.) Sure enough, within two years Roomy expanded to a larger location down the street, to its current location – doubling in size.

House and Home, 2003. Roomy is described as, "a mecca for condo and apartment dwellers"

That first year of business, Joanna remembers living very conservatively. Moving back in with her parents, she was able to reinvest all of her earnings into the business to make grow without over extending herself. At the two month point, Joanna hired her first employee, Melanie, her accountant who still works with us today. Joanna knew she couldn’t focus on the big picture while focusing on the small details of the business at the same time. She also met local wood workers that first year after she was approached by a customer who wanted a custom side table. In those days Joanna didn’t say NO, so she sought to find someone to build it. The next day a local woodworker came into the store just starting out who brought with him a beautiful handmade paddock wood vase. Joanna showed him her sketch and the story continues as he to this day builds a lot of our custom designs for our clients.\

So many things were set into place during those first 12 months – business connections were developed, the Roomy brand started to spread throughout the city, and Joanna became known for her ability to make small spaces feel well.... Roomy.

Butterfly Art

2012-02-24T10:52:00.000-08:00

Check out this new art! I love seeing something unusual yet practical to bring a little extra sparkle to a space.

These enchanting collections of butterflies come from The Butterfly People gallery, established in 1970 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. And don't worry, all the butterflies enjoy their short life span and die of natural causes before they're collected from around the world and preserved to create unique art that can last forever.

The tropical butterflies are stored in acrylic cases and I think they're beautiful on their own or as an addition to an existing art collection. They would be great in a child's room or above a sleek white desk. The cases are also deep enough to stand upright instead of hanging on the wall, so they would work by a lamp on a console too.

Innovative Design in Architecture: 8 House, Copenhagen

2012-02-15T11:16:00.001-08:00

A view of 8 house from above.

8 House in Copenhagen is an incredibly intriguing concept of sustainably mixing suburban and urban life, a concept which I believe will become increasingly attractive. This building complex creates a full neighbourhood in one city block with an innovative design in the shape of a number 8. Starting at ground level, the building height rises as it twists forming the number 8 before lowering back to ground level at the southwest corner. This height variation creates amazing views over the Copenhagen Canal.

A view from the center shows the different uses incorporated in the building design.

While the design is definitely visually stimulating, the idea behind the design to create a neighbourhood incorporating the best of the suburban and urban lifestyles is even more inspiring. 8 House is a mixed-use building, with offices, parks, retail and three types of residences providing nearly 500 homes. Rather than zoning into sections, these uses are spread out horizontally throughout the building to create a thoroughly mixed environment. But what I love most is the continuous pedestrian and bicycle zone that extends from ground level to the top of the building.

Habitat 67, designed by architect Moshe Safdie.

Canada has its own sustainable, urban-inspired building complex: Habitat 67 in Montreal. Habitat was designed by Canadian architect Moshe Safdie, creating nearly 150 residences with concrete blocks stacked in what looks like a haphazard pattern to a height of twelve stories. The idea behind the design was to provide every residence with green space, fresh air and privacy within realistic limits of an urban space – a combination of suburban and urban environments. In 1967, when sustainable building and living weren’t household concepts, this was a building beyond its time. 8 House reminds me of a new version of Habitat, with the design adjusted to the new century.

Your Condo + Your Yoga Practice

2012-02-15T07:59:00.000-08:00

We all practice yoga at Condobox (well, everyone except Devon...but I’m certain she will slowly be converted). ;)

Practicing at home is oh so convenient, and yet—it is so easy to become distracted (especially in a small condo). I can see my kitchen from my mat and often catch myself day-dreaming about how I should do the dishes, or quickly realize while in downward dog that I need to clean my floor.

I also just find it harder to fall into a meditative space while in my living room—a place where I have parties, play loud music, and eat rather than at a yoga studio.

I’ve discovered a few things that can help make your practice space feel sacred—which in turn, help you to feel less distracted and ready to push up into full wheel...

Sweep the floors before you begin your practice and put away visible clutter.
Turn off your cell phone, shut down your computer and put in out of eye sight. The world is not going to come to an end if you do not respond to your e-mails right away.
Design a playlist that you love and turn it up load. Fill your space with sound. This will pull you out of your regular living room and take you somewhere special. I love Krishna Das.
Create an alter. At home, I have a beautiful glass Buddha head that I place on a table just a few feet in front of my mat before I practice. Flowers, photographs, rocks and crystals, or anything that makes you smile also works well.
Turn the lights down low – and light some candles. When the fire is burning, so is your intention (to practice). Candles are also a great thing to focus on during meditation.

Enjoy your practice! Let us know if you have any other suggestions.

Reinvent Yourself.

2012-02-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Reinventing public spaces is hot. Mixing contemporary design with historical buildings is big and sets the stage for a very unique design experience.

Maple Leaf Gardens recently transformed itself into a gigantic Loblaw’s. The idea of purchasing apples and milk on what was once a bed of ice where hockey legends frequented is enticing. Shoppers travel near and far for this unique shopping experience.

Over the last few years, Churches have also become very popular places to redesign into homes or condos. The neo-gothic church on 701 Davenport road have been converted into ‘The Church Lofts’ – beautiful condos with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, open concept floor plans—and stunning stain glass church windows.

What other places in the city do you know of that have been reinvented?

Fabrics 101

2012-02-10T13:50:00.001-08:00

What do the codes mean on fabrics?

When you are shopping for furniture, and you are given hundreds of fabric options, what should you be looking for other than colour? On the back of every fabric swatch, there will be the name and colour, as well as a slew of letters and numbers that may look like gibberish. Well, here is your guide to the fabric label:

Fabric Content:

Polyester: It may not be our favourite word to see on a clothing label, but for furniture, it screams EASY! Polyester is the easiest fabric to care for, and there is such a variety of textures made from Polyester. Also, you will be looking at a great price point.

Cotton: A Natural Fibre, quite durable, but more maintenance for cleaning. Sometimes it can stretch (unlike polyesters), however, it can give a beautiful linen look, have more texture, and it takes colour well.

Acrylic, Viscose: A man-made fabric. Viscose is durable but hard to clean, perhaps avoid using on larger upholstered items. However, it makes some great look-a-likes, like silk, that can be used for pillows, and for a fraction of the price.

Silk: We all know silk...Delicate and pricey, but beautiful. Make sure if you are using it, especially for window coverings, it is well lined, because the sun can eat right through it.

Rub Counts:

The Rub count tells you how much normal wear a fabric can handle before it shows. The number indicates how many times it can be rubbed, in other words, sat on. Rub counts will be labelled either as “Abrasion”, or just a number, typically in the thousands. IE, 30,000 DR. What does the DR stand for? Double Rubs.We have yet to figure out why they don’t just multiply the number by 2 and leave it at that, but hey, it is what it is.

We carry fabrics that range from 15,000 to 200,000 DR.

Cleaning Code:

There are different cleaning codes that come along with different fabrics. Here’s what they mean:

W: Water Based Cleaners. Spot clean using the foam from a water based cleaner such as a mild detergent, or non-solvent upholstery shampoos.

S: Solvent or Dry Cleaning Products. Spot clean using a mild water-free solvent or dry cleaning product.

W.S: Solvent and/or Water Based Cleaners. Both W and S cleaning tips will work

X: Vacuum or Brush Only.

These are some of our fabrics we have available at Condobox!

Read the entire label, there may be some other notes on there about the unique fabric. You can also find information about if it is eco-friendly, stain resistant, good for outdoor use, etc. If you don’t know what it means, don’t hesitate to ask!

discover your dream headboard...

2012-02-09T11:25:00.001-08:00

I have been thinking about designing myself a new bed, but am having difficulty deciding what I want. These days, there are so many options out there, especially when you take the leap into custom designs. Many big box stores these days have a nice selection of about 5-10 headboards, and with a couple fabric options...

but why settle for something your neighbor probably has?

It is not difficult to build your dream headboard.

Toronto’s Gladstone Hotel is a great place to take inspiration from (and get a drink!). Every room has been designed by a different designer, so you can choose what suits your style. Here are a few of the many unique rooms available to stay in.

The Sky Grazer Room has a clean white lacquered bed frame with built in floating side shelves.

The Biker Room- This masculine black leather headboard uses button-tufting to soften it up.

The Teen Queen! Just eliminate the 1980’s head shots, and you have a sleek and chic bed. You can make your headboard more interesting by choosing a bold colour.

At Condobox, we make custom headboard in all shapes and fabrics. Here are some bed’s we have done in the past. Let them inspire you.

The Hepburn Bed

Capi Storage Bed

The Victoria Storage Bed

...Making it is easy! The hardest part is choosing your favorite!

Paint, Pianos and Butterflies!

2012-02-05T11:43:00.001-08:00

Fresh paint, new artwork and lights, and a beautiful piano - made for a busy day in our showroom yesterday!

First up was to have Derrick paint one of our white walls a pastel purple colour. We wanted this wall to pop and to show off our new piano. The piano is white - and a white piano against a white wall wouldn't have created such an eye-catching scene.

Love the white glass finish and the name 'Romance' perfect for Valentines Day!

As the paint was drying, Jana and I started to pack up some of our current showroom pieces to make room for something new.

New lights!

At a closer glance...

fun, seductive - perfect for art history majors!

Last month, Joanna was in Puerto Rico and brought back butterflies! Jana and I had a bit of a challenge hanging them (I can't stand when things are not properly aligned...)

...I wished I had Derrick's laser!

so beautiful and fun!

Behind the Scenes of a Custom Piece

2012-01-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

The best thing about a custom piece is that you can realize an idea to the exact style, size and look you’re going for. Custom pieces are great if you have tight dimensions to work with, need the perfect colour to match your space or want a built-in wall unit with storage, a desk and shelving.

We’re currently working on a custom shelf to store books, DVDs and personal items. The wall is 6’ wide and in a small bedroom. Rather than a heavy wooden bookcase, we decided to go with a wall-mounted glass unit to bring a light and air feel. A stag shelf seemed like the best option, with wooden panels and interchangeable glass shelves.

A stag shelf - the glass shelves and sleek lines don't impose on the space, they're light and barely noticeable.

A wooden bookcase – this works in a large space with lots of light but it makes this small room look cramped and gloomy.

At this point we usually sketch out a quick free-hand drawing of the idea we have in mind. This allows us to see what our idea would look like before continuing with detailed drawings.

A very bad snapshot of my initial sketch. It let me know I was on the right track, but a little too geometric maybe…

Next, we create a CADD drawing. Here we include exact measurements and details. This is the drawing on which we base the manufacturing of the piece, so exact details are very important.

The CADD drawing + dimensions of the stag shelf. The shelves are glass and the panels are wood.

We then present the drawing to the client, usually with an example of what the final piece would look like. This helps the client visualize the piece in their space. When we get feedback we either make necessary changes to the drawing, or head straight into manufacturing.

The top two images are photos of stag shelves we made in the past.

Our pieces are all made locally, in Vaughn. 6-8 weeks later, the piece is delivered to the client’s house, and installed.

And the final product? You’ll have to wait and see…

Catch my Eye

2012-01-29T09:30:00.000-08:00

We have an octopus in our showroom and is it ever causing a stir.

Customers are drawn towards the piece and can’t help but stop and stare. Maybe it’s the bold subject matter, Little Mermaid nostalgia, or the rich blue color palette.

Original Artwork by Bronwyn Loucks

Paintings can make big statements. Adding bold splashes of colour and creating an emotional charge within a space.

Original Artwork by Bronwyn Loucks

Original Artwork by Anja Nurmi

Condo Life

2012-01-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

Our lives are so much bigger than our condos. Living in a playground like Toronto, with a fiery nightlife, world renowned museums and art galleries, and restaurants to suit anyone’s tastes—it would be a mistake not to indulge in the fruits of the city.

Spending so much of our day outside, amongst the hustle and bustle of Toronto, it doesn’t make sense to own a massive 4 floor detached home (and honestly, who has the time to clean that much space?). And let’s face it; if you want to live downtown, condominiums are your best bet.

We recognize this at Condobox. In fact, we live it.

And we can make it work. Trust us; a 600sq foot condo is not as small as you think. Fill it with oversized furniture and sure, you might start to feel a little claustrophobic—but fill it with condo-sized furniture, with storage sofas and beds, and you can make your space work for you.

With soft lighting, comfortable fabrics, and an overall design concept or gesamtkunstwerk as my Architecture Professor liked to call it, your condo can be your safe haven from the city lights.

Condo life is also just so convenient—and yes, a little luxurious. Many boast amenities such as outdoor/indoor pools, steam rooms and spas. Festival Towers, for example, located at 80 John Street, has a Meditation Garden, a state of the arc fitness centre with a Yoga and Pilates studio, a cinema and lounge room, and room service!

Taking all the fuss out of owning a home, with concierge and security at your finger tips, all you need to do is rest, relax, and unwind in your space.

Chair Love

2012-01-27T08:13:00.000-08:00

Mantra of the Day: Never understate the value of a stylish and comfortable chair.

Walking west, down King East, I will forever have a smile on my face as I pass this ode to chairs. They get it, chairs are larger than life.

This is my kind of chair. The animal print is a nice touch - but in hot pink or deep red, this chair is on fire.

Cute, charming and unexpected. Maybe its the snowy weather, but I can't get over this fabric.

finding YOUR perfect sofa | making peace with the word 'customizable'

2012-01-13T07:41:00.000-08:00

You’re looking for the sectional. The one that you have been dreaming about—done in a dark charcoal fabric that matches the accents in your rug, with slim arms, and chrome feet. You have spent hours walking up and down King Street, searching for the physical manifestation of your vision—and have had no luck.

You walk into Condobox and see a sectional that comes close—but the feet are not chrome and it’s a light charcoal colour—not dark. Ai.

Another wasted day of searching...you think.

“This piece is customizable”. You hear one of the designers say.

Your stomach tightens up. “Customizable—that’s got to triple the cost," you quickly retort.

She pulls out a book of fabrics and explains that customizing your sofa does not necessarily mean that it will be more expensive. Depending on the grade of fabric you choose, or the style of feet, it can actually be the same price, and occasionally cheaper, than the showroom model.

“Fabrics have grades?”

“Yes.” She replies, “Each manufacturer creates their own grade of fabric based upon the cost of manufacturing the fabric—while some higher grade fabrics are more durable and versatile than lower grade fabrics—this is not always the case.”

“Huh.”

As you pick out the dark charcoal fabric swatch and choose the chrome feet, you sink a little deeper into the sofa, relaxing your shoulders and breathing a sigh of relief. In six to eight weeks you dream sectional is going to be delivered to your home. Your search is over.

And then, just to make your day sparkle a little more, the designer tells you that your piece, and most of the other styles of sofas, ottomans and beds in the showroom are on sale for 20% off until the end of January 2012. Woo hoo!

***

Bring in your paint swatches, pictures of your room + dimensions and take full advantage of our designers expertise. Receive complimentary design service in the showroom when choosing a furniture piece from Condobox—and until the end of January, get an extra 20% off most of our furniture pieces!

New Years Resolution : Slim Down!

2012-01-08T12:15:00.000-08:00

No, I’m not talking about losing those extra 5 pounds--I’m talking about losing the stuff, the junk, and the random things that float around your condo creating clutter.

Recycle the magazines you never read, donate the trinkets on your coffee table, walk up to your bookshelf and carefully consider whether or not you will ever read that book again--and then donate that third year Econ textbook.

Sifting through and reducing the number of things in your condo is like breathing fresh air. It creates space for increased relaxation by cutting back on the amount of visual stimulus that could otherwise create feelings of anxiousness or stress.

Take it from me. I’m a very visual person. As soon as I walk into a shopping centre, or downtown Toronto, the collage of colours, flashing lights and people is overwhelming. There is too much to see and take in, too many colours, things, and patterns. I feel exhausted. When I come home at night, to my colour co-coordinated and streamlined condo, I immediately feel peaceful and focused. Our environment truly does affect how we feel.

Outside of slimming down on your goods, the design + furniture in your space also has an impact on how spacious and clutter-free it feels.

At Condobox, we carry condo-specific furniture. What this means is that we do not sell bulky sofas that will consume most of your living and dining room space. We sell condo-sized sofas that are slim and modern with options for storage underneath the cushions—a great way to stow away books, blankets, and seasonal decor. When designing a bedroom for a client, we encourage them to consider a custom closet unit. Extra shelving and drawers inside your closet encourages organization. Imagine walking into your closet to feel inspired rather than overwhelmed by the shoes, t-shirts and tights flying everywhere.

Glass pieces, like our Calvin coffee table, also reduce the visual 'weight' of furniture. They are airy and light rather than heavy and dense like a traditional wooden coffee table.

The Calvin Coffee Table comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.

So this year, make a commitment to honor yourself and the space you live in by reducing the amount of 'stuff' floating around the counters and purchase condo-friendly furniture. You will feel more inspired, energized, and ready to take on the world outside of your condo.

fall in LOVE with your space.

Xmas and the City

2012-01-03T05:17:00.000-08:00

Here at Condobox, we like to throw parties. On December 15^th we rang in the season with Xmas and the City, a holiday party for our clients. The event was hosted by Joanna Kakkavas, CEO and President of Condobox.

Joanna Kakkavas, CEO and President of Condobox.

CX sponsored Candy Cane Martinis and prosecco were floating around the room as candles twinkled and music rolled. Delicious hors d'oeuvres and boxes of Christmas chocolate were always at hand—

To view more pictures from Xmas and the City, check out our Facebook Page.

And this years holiday party was particularly special—through a silent auction, we helped to raise funds for CX’s own charity, The Open Box Foundation (www.openboxfoundation.wordpress.com).

Stools, a bar cart, beautiful artwork, a CX design consultation, lamps, and a gift certificate from our showroom were a few of the items donated by Condobox, that were featured in the silent auction. And what a success it was—that night, $2350 dollars were raised for the Open Box Foundation.

Me (Bronwyn Loucks) and Philip Unrau from Central Neighbourhood House.

As the New Year rolls in, we are excited to work with the Central Neighborhood House on more Open Box projects and to continue to provide excellent interior design + furniture packages to our Toronto Community.

Wishing everyone a wonderful 2012!

Condobox Wishlist!

2011-12-08T15:36:00.000-08:00

Its that time of year.

Tinsel and lights glisten in shop windows as the city pulses with shoppers searching for the perfect gift. For me, the perfect gift is something a little indulgent – something I wouldn’t necessarily purchase for myself - yet is still functional and beneficial enough to keep in my small condo.

And while I appreciate the gesture,

knick-knack just leave me with extra clutter and I can only digest so much holiday cooking.

I have created a wish list, from the Condobox showroom, of items that will both dazzle and awe the individuals on your shopping list. These items are a little indulgent and yet practical - making them the perfect gifts.

***

Design Consultation with a CX Designer.

Who wouldn’t benefit from space planning, a color consultation, or an interior design makeover?

I would be head over heels in love with someone who gave me the gift of a design consultation with a CX designer. You can purchase a set number of hours (i.e. 3 hrs for space planning or color consultation) or, you can purchase a CX Package, which includes interior design services and furniture for a condo and begin at 15K.

Drink Dispenser

A drink dispenser. This is such a helpful item to have for Christmas parties and family gatherings. It’s also a great gift idea.

$275

Fireplace

“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping on your nose…”

Sipping tea, watching the snow fall, and cuddling in front of the fire is a wonderful way to spend an evening. Our Eco-Feu fireplaces are also great gifts to the environment as they burn clean, ethanol fuel.

$1100

Decorative Pillows.

I love decorating my bed and couch with pillows. I can’t seem to have enough – and I particularly love Alexandra Ferguson’s witty and stylish cushions. We have a huge bin of cushions on sale in our showroom at the moment – making this the perfect gift for the shopper on a budget.

$30-60 each (reg. $60-120 each).

Table Lamps.

The city is in search for more light during the winter months. Condobox’s lamps are functional gifts that boast special and unique touches.

Prices vary depending on style.

A Nemo vase/fish tank.

This is just one of those really unique pieces. If you fill it with fish, it’s sure to start conversations!

$125

Tis' the Season to Party!

2011-11-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

The city is glowing and buzzing! I was at the Distillery District on the weekend and couldn’t help but notice the massive Christmas tree that they were decorating and the beautiful strings of lights adorning the cobblestone streets.

The city’s annual event, Cavalcade of Lights, also just took place – stirring up some more of that holiday magic in the city.

At Condobox, our Christmas tree is glowing and we are excited to celebrate the season on December the 15^th at the Parlor Room with exciting cocktails, hors d'oeurves and a silent auction benefiting the:

Open Box Foundation.

The Open Box Foundation is our way of giving back and supporting our community. By working with clients to refurnish and design their homes, we noticed that many could not decide what to do with their older, yet barely used, furniture. It seemed a hassle to post it online or transport the donation. Joanna, the CEO and Founder of Condobox found an opportunity to help them and to help our community and this gave rise to our Open Box Foundation.

The process best described would be when we go to our clients homes to set up their new furnishings we then take their old furniture and send it to our storage facility. This furniture is then donated, along with our interior design services and the cost of delivery and transportation, to those people we are working with through Toronto Community Housing. Our clients, who donated their furniture, then receive a credit to our showroom - which they can use towards their new pieces of furniture.

It's a great way for us all to help each other.

Please RSVP to info@condobox.ca if you are interested in joining us on December 15th and finding out more about our charity.

Happy holidays everyone!

Retreat | finding warmth in furniture

2011-11-14T08:44:00.000-08:00

The leaves are dropping from the trees, the air is getting brisk, and I am finding myself spending more and more time indoors. Cultivating warmth is important to me during this time of year. I drink more tea, wear heavier clothes, eat more soup – and I tend to become rather nostalgic. I grew up in the country and like to remember the charm and simplicity it has to offer – the mountains of untouched, soft snow, rosy cheeks, and log cabins.

I remember the countryside for its rustic nature, its simplicity, and its charm.

Furniture and interior spaces can also stoke up these feelings. In our showroom at the moment, we have some very unique side-tables. Made primarily of wood and just like trees found in nature, each piece is slightly different and special. They have an aura of warmth and charm.

The sidetable reminds me of a beautiful tree trunk - yet the polished finish and the rhythmic crevices add sophistication to its rustic nature.

This piece has a really lovely lightness to it.

The wood grain is very soft and polished. It has a humble presence.

I love the little bow-tie images on the top of this sidetable. To me, they look like little butterflies! The grain of this wood is also very interesting - the play with light and dark coloring makes it appear very fluid.

We Care

2011-11-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

We care about our Community. We care about our Earth.

We strive for sustainability at Condobox.

Working with and supporting our community.

We care about our community. Last week, Devon and I (Bronwyn) attended the Paradigm Shift Project’s (PSP) fundraiser (http://www.theparadigmshiftproject.org). We donated a $700.00 package composed of 3 hours of interior design work + a $300 gift certificate for our showroom. The PSP is a really amazing organization that creates documentary films about global issues. These films create awareness as well as give local non-profits educational and fundraising tools to reach new donors. At the fundraiser, Devon and I had the opportunity to meet the Executive Director of the PSP and filmmaker, Rebecca Sweetman. She was very inspiring. It was so nice to be able to support such a wonderful organization.

We are also excited to be donating to the United Way’s Rouge fundraiser (www.unitedwaytoronto.com/rouge) and The Young People’s Theatre Hullabaloo fundraiser (http://youngpeoplestheatre.ca). Come out and support these great organizations with us!

But did you hear…. Condobox also has its own Charity – Open Box.

We are very excited to launch our Open Box charity!

Here’s how it works:

From our customers, we purchase new and gently used furniture and give them CX dollars in return. We then donate the furniture, interior design time, and the cost of delivery to those in need. It’s a really amazing way to give back and to recycle furniture.

If you would like to donate furniture or cash to our foundation – please let us know.

Not only do we support our community and work with local artisans, but we order 80% of our products from high-quality Canadian companies. Currently, in our showroom, we have som eunique and environmentally sustainable pieces such as the Eco-Feu fireplace that burns clean ethanol fuel and a beautiful recycled barnwood table (see pictures below).

meet a CX designer...

2011-10-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

Meet a Condobox Designer!

Name: Jamie Sadjak

Age: 24

Born: England

Inspiration: all things

'Orbit Coffee Table' by Jamie Sadjak
Come see this beautiful piece in our showroom!

Design and creative subjects have always been my passion.

Tell me a bit about your experience as a designer:

My experience as a designer includes formal training at Nottingham Trent University in England where I spent four years studying furniture and product design. Outside of this, I have also worked on many different design projects from mass market designs to bespoke projects. The process of creating, communicating, and producing objects is very satisfying and I am excited to continue my career.

What’s your big dream?

I have always dreamed of producing my own range of furniture, using my own mandate of what good design is meant to be as the inspiration.

What sets your work apart?

The balance between production, art and the environment is very important in my work. I attempt to use eco-friendly manufacture processes, such as steam bending. Additionally, I try to reduce the impact of my furniture on the environment by using sustainably sourced materials and by designing my pieces so that they can be reduced in size and therefore packaged as small possible for transportation - cutting down carbon emissions. Most of all I try and make my furniture high quality, long lasting, beautiful and unique.

Why do you love being a CX designer?

I like working in a setting where I can be creative and help people envision and achieve their design dreams.

Lights

2011-10-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

Warmth / Ambience / Light

Lighting is important. Studies show that the quality of light affects people in different ways such as productivity and emotional wellbeing. Consider, for example, the difference between bright white halogen lighting in conference rooms and warm, soft lighting in reading rooms. Personally, the bright white exposed lighting in large department stores and conference spaces make me feel agitated and give me a headache – not the way I want to feel in my home!

^ I love the ovular base and the rustic gold colour of the lampshade.

When I came into work today, I was pleasantly greeted by these beautiful new lamps. Joanna picked these lamps out while she was at the New York Gift Show back in August and they arrived earlier this week. They glow soft and warm. With unique touches to the base and lamp shades, they also add ambience to your home as pieces of artwork in their own right.

^ Light reflects on the base of these lamps dynamically because of their texture - adding sparkle and ambience to your space.

products that we love / products that our customers love

2011-10-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Products that we love

Products that our customers love

When selecting furniture to fill our showroom and our clients homes, it is important to us to have products that will last, that fit into the aesthetics and the physical space of the condo, and that are unique, interesting, and reflect current design trends. This week I have decided to pick out a few pieces from our showroom that are loved by the Condobox team and, most importantly, our customers.

Amelie Sofa

comfortable + high quality

The Amelie Sofa can be configured into many shapes and sizes to best meet the needs of your space. It comes in a loveseat, chair, chaise, and sectional with options to add a sofa bed or storage. Available in a variety of fabrics, the Amelie Sofa bed is truly made just for our clients.

Why do we love it? Made with-high density foam and a solid wood frame, the Amelie Sofa is more than just a beautiful sofa – it is a sofa that will withstand dinner parties, children that like to jump on furniture, and hours of cuddling up in your favorite corner of the sofa with a blanket and a cup of tea.

What does high-density foam mean? Remember that time when you sat down on what appeared to be a comfy looking chair—but you sunk through the cushion and could feel the metal or wooden supports? …ouch!

This is what happens when a couch or chair is not made with high-density foam – after a year or two the cushion begins to lose its structure and firmness. All of our pieces at Condobox are made with high-density foam—ensuring that our clients are purchasing comfort that will last.

Eco-Feu Bioethanol fireplaces

ambience + kind to the earth

With the winter months just around the corner, the addition of an Eco-Feu fireplace to your home is a great way create ambience and feelings of warmth and relaxation. Many different finishes and designs are available. For more information please visit: www.eco-feu.com and gives us a call at Condobox to order your Eco-Feu firplace.

Why do we love it? It can easily be mounted onto your wall and the flame burns clean without odor or smoke.

Riechman Wall Bed

multifunctional + comfortable

The Riechman Wall Bed, commonly known as a ‘Murphy Bed,’ is a great option for condo owners wishing to convert a room into a multifunctional space or for guest rooms. Unlike a sofa bed or daybed, the wall bed takes a standard mattress, making it a great alternative and comfortable solution for a full-time bed. The Riechman also comes in a variety of finishes to ensure that it will suit your space.

Why do we love it? Custom-made desks and cabinets can be built around your wall bed in a matching finish so that when the bed is up, it can function as an office space or library.

Twist Coffee Table

unique + airy

The Twist Coffee Table is a custom design by Condobox and is made locally, in Toronto. It comes in a variety of finishes and sizes, and like most of our pieces, can be customized to meet your specifications.

Why do we love it? The glass top makes the piece light and airy – perfect for a small space. The undulating wood base also makes the piece unique, special, and sophisticated.

the transformation of our showroom / part 3

2011-10-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

[the bedroom]

What is more important than a good night sleep?

Clean surfaces, simple lines, and a tidy environment enhance your ability to relax, to unwind, and to soften into a deep sleep.

Condo-sized bedrooms offer an interesting design challenge. It is important to have enough storage space to house your clothing and your accessories without feeling overwhelmed or congested. This fall, our showroom bedroom will be both functional and relaxing as well as display some of the latest design trends.

< the peacock feather is one of our colour inspirations for our fall/winter look.

[nicole bed]

The biggest feature of the bedroom is, of course, the bed. We have decided to display our Nicole Bed. The Nicole is one of our custom design furniture pieces, providing functional storage space for small spaces with deep drawers that hold enough room for linens, extra bedding or clothing. As the Nicole is a custom piece, our clients can customize the finish, the headboard, the size of the bed, and can have customized nightstands or drawers made to match. Endless possibilities! For our showroom, we will have the Nicole bed done in a soft grey lacquer with violet undertones and with a pin-tufted headboard.


	So what happens when we create a custom piece for you – and love it so much that we bring it into the store to sell? We call it after you! The Nicole bed is named after Nicole, a client who owns the original bed design.

[the walls]

To add some more interest to the bedroom walls, we have been considering incorporating decorative moulding. Moulding will add depth and sophistication to the space. The walls will be painted in a light, earthly olive colour to accent the bed and be in keeping with our rustic theme with feminine undertones.

< this is the beautiful duvet cover that will be featured on our Nicole bed. Also notice the decorative moulding on the walls - a great way to add elegance to your bedroom.

[accessories]

Accessories are also important. On the bed, we will feature a soft and airy duvet to accent the colour palette of the room (see picture below). Side tables, customized storage, artwork and wall scones will add utility and atmosphere to the bedroom. Below are some of the accessories we have featured in the past.

< these wall scones are actually on sale at the moment - part of our 50% off floor model sale. We need to sell them to make room for our new scones.

Artwork is great for adding some interest to the walls and setting a mood. This original oil painting is done by one of our local artists, Bronwyn (bronwynloucks.wordpress.com).

Custom-made shelving units are great way to maximize storage space within a small area.

the transformation of our showroom / part 2

2011-09-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

[making space]

In order to fill our showroom with new products this fall, we need to make space. With this in mind, last week we began a huge floor model sale selling our furniture and accessories at 50% off. Products are moving quickly – and new products are arriving just as quickly!

Domitalia is an Italian made company known for its clear-cut design, high quality, and comfortable products. We carry a number of their products and have selected a few to display in our showroom this fall. Life, for example, is a beautiful walnut veneer dining table designed by Domitalia. It is an extendable dining table which makes it perfect for family gatherings. The walnut finish generates feelings of warmth, bringing us back to feelings of harvest season and thanksgiving dinners.

While at the New York Gift show in August, Joanna saw a number of pieces of artwork that she ordered from Leftbank art. They arrived last week in our showroom and Devon and I were eager to see the work for ourselves. While it is not original work, the pieces are textured and from a distance they look like soft, multi-layered encaustic paintings. The horse painting below, reminds me of a still from an old black and white film mixing feelings of nostalgia with romanticism.

the transformation of our showroom / part 1

2011-09-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

[a change of season]

Fall and winter are a time for reflection, comfort and warmth. A time where we spend more of our day indoors – cuddled up in cozy blankets, enjoying the heat of a blazing fire, and entertaining loved ones.

Here at Condobox, the change of season also signifies the transformation of our showroom. Twice a year our 600sq foot model suit is remodeled to demonstrate what one of our Condbox Packages could look like, to illustrate current design trends and to showcase some of our best selling pieces.

[the inspiration]

homey / simple / sustainable products / calming / relaxing / back to our roots

Back in August, Joanna Kakkavas, the principal and founder of Condobox, was inspired by the rustic industrial trend with a soft and feminine feel that was featured at the New York Gift show. This fall and winter our showroom will reflect this trend. We want to create a space that evokes and cultivates feelings of calm, warmth and simplicity.

^some of the photos that Joanna took at the New York Gift show

Inspiration can also be found when you least expect it - and as we were discussing the remodeling of our space, the cover of a Benjamin Moore paint catalogue with a peacock feather on it caught our attention. The rich and vibrant indigo's and blues of the feather in combination with earthy olive and taupe tones transposed themselves into our colour palette.

With a colour palette to guide us, our next steps are to choose fabrics, furniture and décor that both relate to this palette as well as cultivate the emotional response we are striving for within our space.

The evolution of our showroom will be documented on our blog.

I invite you

to visit our blog regularly and track the progress of our model suite. To gain an insiders perspective of how a condominium is both designed and furnished and a glimpse into the world of interior design here, at Condobox.

Its time for a [change]

2011-09-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

With change always comes a letting go, and on July 7^th we transitioned from Roomy Interiors into Condobox – a new concept to focus more on helping condo owners furnish their space [and build their dream box].

As part of our ‘face-lift’ celebrations, we chose to feature the artwork of 7 local artists, for under $700.00, in our showroom. It was a great way for us to not only celebrate our new concept, but to support and to celebrate the vibrant arts culture in our community.

[evolution] whats new?

Condo owners can now purchase a Condo Box package with their furnishings and design time included. With the expertise of the Box’s interior Designers, clients are guided through making all of the difficult decisions that come along with creating a functional living space.

Investors and realtors who are looking to stage a unit can now find a better solution with our Condo packages. Potential buyers will see beyond the empty shell of a suite, choose and modify the packages to their liking and imagine themselves living life in their new condo fast and easy!

Stop by our showroom at 232 King Street East for more information about our services and products or check us out online at www.condobox.ca.

[build your dream box]

Festival Tower

2011-08-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

There are plenty of new condos in Toronto but none quite compare to the development by Daniels at 80 John St. One of the Condobox's most recent listings is this brand new 577 square foot "Monroe" unit with a huge 126 square foot balcony.

It's located in the heart of the city in a luxurious building with 5 star services and top of the line amenities including a meditation garden, cinema and spa.

Designed by the Condobx, all furnishings were sources from our Canadian suppliers. It was furnished with sleek, modern living in mind. The design allows you to entertain comfortably both inside and out. The large sectional seats 5, while additional seating can be found at the desk area, in the kitchen and on the patio.

The bedroom is fully equipped with extra storage solutions. The tall dresser gives plenty of storage while the bed has 2 large drawers that open on either side. The closet has also been re-finished for the best potential

use of space.

ABC's of condo window coverings

2011-08-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

Living in a downtown Toronto condo has plenty of advantages. You can find your own personal refuge right in the thick of things, just steps to your favourite shops, restaurants and favourite activities. However, in many instances, buildings are so close together that privacy can become an issue. Making sure that you have the right window treatments is paramount to ensure that you feel comfortable in your own home.

While there are plenty of drapery and blind options on the market, some are more suited to certain applications than others. Here’s just a quick overview...

Roller blinds are a very popular choice for condominiums. They have a clean modern design and are available in a variety of opacities which range from complete black at 0% to 1%, 5% etc. Openness, depending on how much light you would like to allow through.

Vienna blinds have a honeycomb structure which is a little more transitional in design. They allow for privacy when both open and closed and can be purchased in light filtering and total black out models. These tend to be a little higher in price than roller blinds as their manufacturing and final product is a little more complex than a standard roller blind.

Drapery panels are also a very popular choice for many. They very quickly soften a room visually and can bring lots of colour and character into a space. I often use drapery panels in conjunction with roller blinds for clients who want the esthetics of the one, and the practicality of the other. Drapery can be purchased in pre-made panels or custom made from your choice of fabrics.

While roller blinds, vienna blinds and drapery panels are all available in many different colours, it’s important to remember that most condo boards insist that the backings of your window treatments are white!

Preparing for your first grandchild

2011-07-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

Hearing the news that a baby is on the way is always exciting but is especially so when it’s your first grandchild! There are so many details to consider however as a designer, I always begin by thinking about how the design of a home will have an impact on how easily people will live in it.

The arrival of a first grandchild is both exciting and stressful but there are simple design principles that can be implemented to make sure that your home is ready for all of the fun activities that are sure to come!

First thing first, babies do spend a lot of time on the floor until they are able to run and play. Making sure that you have the right kind of carpet is essential. This beautiful shag run feels great underfoot but can act as a magnet trapping in it pretty much anything that falls to the floor. Shorter pile rugs are better but if shag is what you prefer, make sure you have a great vacuum!

I find a lot of clients inquiring about what colours and materials should be used on a sofa when there are kids in the home. While lighter colours are always much more sensitive, if white is best for you, I’d probably suggest leather. This way, whatever is spilt can be quickly wiped away before it’s properly absorbed. In terms of fabrics, always refer to the manufacturers label to see the cleaning code and abrasion rating to determine whether or not it is a good fit for your space.

Of course, with children of any age come lots of toys. These clever storage ottomans are a great way to tuck away toys of all shapes and sizes. You can even colour coordinate ottomans for individual grandchildren as your family grows!

Last but not least, young and old, everyone in the family will love to look at the memories you’ve created together if you have a photo collage. Simple frames can be mounted to your wall in organic or symmetrical ways to reflect your personal style. It’s so easy to quickly update them too when you capture a fun moment shared with loved ones.

Summer in the city!

2011-07-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Summer in Toronto is upon us! The weather is fabulous, the days are sunny and warm but the nights can sometime still have just a hint of chill in the air. On those night especially, nothing beats sitting around a fireplace!

Ethanol fuel burning fireplaces are all the rage for condominium dwellers. With plenty of styles to choose from, they are available in indoor and outdoor models, wall mounted, free standing and even table top versions. The Ethanol fuel burns clean and is environmentally friendly.

This is the Prague fireplace which is currently on display in our showroom. It is a wall mounted version that is so easy to install, all you need are a couple of screws! Even when not lit, it’s quite the conversation piece with its modern, clean lines.

Below is the Milan, a free standing unit which is easy to move around your space depending on how you are entertaining. It’s design is spectacular as it practically floats above the ground!

This table top fireplace is called Venise. It’s perfect for setting the mood for an outdoor dinner party on your terrace. What could be more perfect that a warm summer night with cocktails and friends around a cozy fire!

With so many new condominium developments popping up around the city, it’s easy to be tempted to move to a new space. All of these fireplaces can be brought with you to be enjoyed wherever your life should take you!

Bringing Nature Indoors

2011-06-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

Inspiration for the design of your condo can be found in so many different places. One source that many are intrigued with surrounds us all ... nature! As a designer, I often contemplate different ways of bringing the outside into my client’s homes. While this can be done through colour, light and the clever use of mirrors, one obvious way to do this is by simply using a floral motif in the space.

This piece of art is by Celeste Brunel, a wonderful Canadian artist who takes her photographs, super-saturates the colours and then has them printed onto metal. Extremely graphic and modern, it’s a great way to liven up any living space. www.celestebrunel.com

This trip-tich by Danielle O’Connor Akiyama is a watercolour that integrates Western and Japanese paint techniques. The flowers are practically dripping from their canvases and the colours are soft and sensuous. More of a “transitional” piece, this type of floral is appropriate for modern or contemporary spaces. http://www.danielleoconnorakiyama.com/

If you are more of a traditionalist, then of course there are floral prints that are perfect for you too! The fabric used on this drapery frames the window and compliments the otherwise neutral decor beautifully. And don’t forget, if your partner is less than a fan of florals, it’s perfectly fine to add some stripes into the mix. A little compromise actually can have a great impact on the design of your space!

Non-Conventional Storage

2011-06-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

Amelie Sectional - with storage and a pullout double bed

Diva Lounge - with a pullout double bed

Esque Bed - hydraulic lifting mechanism provides storage underneath

Nicole Bed - drawers provide storage

Small spaces call for creative storage ideas and multifunctional furniture. Having a sofa with a pullout bed is great, but a sofa like the Amelie with a pullout bed and storage is even better. Don’t have enough room for a sofa? Try a small, backless lounge, for example the Diva, that can fit under a window and can pull out a double bed for guests.

My bedroom doesn’t have room for a queen bed, let alone a dresser, so a storage bed is the perfect alternative. A lifting mattress on the Esque provides mattress-size storage under the bed or drawers on each side of the Nicole bed are perfect for clothes, shoes and books.

Amelie: starting at $4500

Diva: starting at $1755

Esque: starting at $2400 (queen)

Nicole: starting at $2800 (double)

The Rustic Feel

2011-05-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

There is no doubt about it that the rustic, and salvaged wood furniture pieces are what people are after...so hot right now!

This cool adjustable table had a base which allows the table to go up and down, and while everyone has fun guessing what it is from, the builder also does not know the origin. His guess is that it was from a piece of machinery. The salvaged wood tables also give that perfect mix of rustic and modern with its salvaged top, and sleek base.

Not looking to spend a fortune?

These pieces give off that rustic feel without breaking the bank! readily available, Any of these accents will give that perfect barnyard touch to your space.

Top Photo: Adjustable Table $1350. Salvaged top Console $920. Both available at the Condobox

Bottom Photo: Le-Trunk Lamp $315. Baxter Cube $370. Antwerp Console $475

"Here! Take My Seat"

2011-05-11T13:43:00.000-07:00

Tired of feeling like guests are always fighting for a seat when you invite them over?

I have been to so many parties where as fun as it is to all stand around in the kitchen, I just want to sit down! The reason people often stand around in a condo is because there is often not enough room for everyone to take a seat. Let's maximize our comfortable guests by bringing the party into the living or dining area and having additional seating for all.

These little stools are easy to fit around your condo, use them in your entrance way, in the corner of your living room or bedroom, or as a coffee table. Then, when your friends come over- let them rest! Position them around the living area or add to the dining table, and Viola! I have 2 myself as my coffee table, and I never fear my tiny condo is too tiny for a party :)

Light It Up

2011-05-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

When moving and designing your home it's so easy to get caught up in the big, obvious pieces. By the time you've picked out a sofa, coffee table, dining table, bed... Something like a light fixture can easily go overlooked. If it works and lights up a dark space, it can wait. From personal experience (other than my kitchen, my place still has no ceiling lights and I've been living there for three years) I know that this wait can be a long one.

So, I'm on the hunt for new lighting. Looking at beautiful interiors I am always drawn to the lighting, probably because it makes a subtle but strong impact. I still haven't decided if I want something simple and sleek or a big statement-maker. I've posted some of my favourite so far.

Clockwise from top left: Krustallos Light $315; Wave Light $1300; Steel Wrap Light $375; 3-light Chandelier $535

Wallpaper is Back!

2011-05-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

Go for a subtle print in a bedroom or to create a light and airy space.

We currently feature this peacock feather wallpaper in our showroom!

Create a bold statement with a bright colour.

A strong and masculine pattern works well in a living room or den.

Classic prints work in any room and don't go out of style.

Why not try something different on a few walls? It disappeared for a while sometime in the 90s, but these days wallpaper is back in a modern way. What's really great is that it easily spruces up a wall with a pattern or design. A bold coloured wallpaper on one wall can be a really cool accent piece and a simple pattern on several walls can bring together a room or open-concept space.

Keeping Spring in Mind with an Airy Custom Bench

2011-04-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

It's a cold and cloudy day here so we're trying to stay optimistic and not let the weather bring our moods down! This custom bench definitely helps - the white lacquer finish is light and the trees and birds on the fabric remind us of warmer, sunnier days. To top it off, the bench has a drawer for storage and sits on four wheels so it can easily be rolled around to brighten up every room.

Product Information:

Price: $1200
Various finishes and fabrics available

Brighten Up Your Workspace

2011-04-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

Today someone came in to the showroom looking for various pieces, one in particular, an office chair. She was so happy to see that we offered a wide variety of fun office chairs that weren't your typical boring black office chair.

Just because your work may be serious, doesn't mean your office has to be. Time to have fun with it! Brighten up the space and make it a place you want to be. We have a large variety of fun office chairs options, all available in different colours to choose from.

1. Lider Plus in Purple $315. 2. Marlon Office Chair in White $275. 3. Director Chair in Terracotta $430. 4. Soho Office Chair in Red $545 5. Patara Office Chair in Blue Wool $480 6. Dwell Chair in Black $160

Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining

2011-04-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for these silver stools to bring us a smile on this dreary rainy day!

Just in at the Condo Box- the perfect little accessory for your condo! They can be used as stools, a side table, or grouped together as a coffee table. How can you resist!? The trouble will be picking your favorite.

Prices range from $265-$315.

Custom Bed: The Nicole

2011-04-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

As a design firm and furniture retailer that has been at the forefront of Toronto’s design market for the past 8 years, we thought it would be fun to start a blog!

With that being said, our first post is of our custom Nicole storage bed. This has been a favourite of ours for a long time now. In the past, we’ve chosen to do a white lacquer frame but this season we decided to switch it up a bit! Grey is the new white.

Product information:

Twin - King available

Design to specifications-

Colour, headboard height and fabric customizable