This year marks the 10th anniversary of Studio North, the Interior Design Show’s tribute to young Canadian designers. The exhibit features talented up-and-comers who share convention-floor space with stores, suppliers and global industry leaders. Here is some of the stuff—both affordable and outlandish—that we’re excited about.
Roshan—The Candle Stand ($39–$49)
Tahir Mahmood, Toronto
These candleholders from the fast-rising Mahmood feature a playful colour palette of glossy reds, oranges, greens and blues mixed with rich, dark wood. Surprise: There’s a dinner bell housed in the post.
Fence ($135)
Six Point Un, Quebec City
The Fence hangs on the wall for clever storage of keys and mail—a cheeky way to keep the “white picket fence” dream alive in the age of condo living.
Fundy cushion ($65)
Lori Harrison of Conscious Design Living, Toronto
During a trip to the east coast, Harrison was inspired by paint flaking off an old shed. Lovely interpretation.
Spiral Nest pendants (from $300)
Zac Ridgely, Toronto
One would be nice. A few would be nicer.
Neon tungsten lamp ($TBD)
Antoine Laverdière Design, Montreal
The mellow light emitted from Laverdière’s tungsten lamp is warm and inviting. It’s reason to question the energy-saving bulb.
Cross III dining table (from $4,500)
Brothers Dressler, Toronto
Brothers Jason and Lars Dressler have built a reputation for having a heartfelt love of salvaged materials. We heart their Cross III dining table with with criss-crossed wood and metal legs.
Manila rope light by Alex Jowett (from US$450)
Atelier 688, Toronto
An incredibly durable material, manila rope ensures the light will stand the test of time (and continue to look awesome).
Paddle (US$190)
Contact Voyaging Co., Toronto
This basswood paddle brings a little city chic to the great outdoors.
Stroll wallpaper (made to order)
Mushaboom Design, Nova Scotia
The designers at Mushaboom were inspired by the public gardens of Nova Scotia to create their new Victoria line, a lusciously hued collection of wallpaper.
Three: An Explodable Chair (from $2,400)
Fishtnk Design Factory, Toronto
The chair has removable components with magnetic joinery so it can be taken apart easily to become three cushions. Voila—an explosion!
The Tyndall Table ($1,500)
Thom Fougere, Winnipeg
Having won an award for best new prototype for his Bench Rack at last year’s IDS, Fougere is back debuting this table. Planed Manitoba prairie tyndall stone sits gracefully on thin steel legs. The beauty is in the surface—a must see.
IDS12 runs Jan. 26–29 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W., 416-599-3222. Tickets are $19 from interiordesignshow.com or $22 at the door.
