Wool blankets by OLEANA, at Urbanity
When the weather outside is frightful, curl up with a super-soft blanket by Norwegian company OLEANA. These bright throws are made of merino wool (pictured) or alpaca and reference both Nordic culture and the Silk Road in their patterns. Stop by Urbanity to find OLEANA blankets, knitwear, silks and coats to perfect your Scandinavian style.—Kristina Urquhart
More information:
URBANITY 2412 Granville St. 604-801-6262. www.urbanity.ca
Get inspired by the decor at Livingspace
Urban Inspiration
The up-and-coming Armoury District, just west of Granville Island, is a go-to spot for hot home shops and even hotter coffee. Livingspace (pictured) thrills decor and design aficionados with its recently opened multi-level location. Mint Interiors stocks cool collectibles and eye-catching light fixtures. And next door’s Café Bica offers an inspired setting to sip frothy lattes and nosh on freshly baked pastries.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
LIVINGSPACE INTERIORS 1706 W. 1st Ave. 604-683-1116. www.livingspace.com
MINT INTERIORS 1805 Fir Street. 604-568-3430. www.mintinteriors.ca
CAFE BICA $. B/L (M-Sa). 1809 Fir St. 604-733-8818. www.cafebica.com
Bird decorations from Homesense
Cheep Cheep Cheer
Even those who believe the holiday season is for the birds can’t resist adorable felt owls from Homesense ($4.99). Find more seasonal decorations that won’t break the budget at Sears and Christmas Street in The Bay.—Sheri Radford
More information:
HOMESENSE 493 Robson St. 604-683-4406. www.homesense.ca
SEARS Pacific Centre, 701 Granville St. 604-685-7112. www.sears.ca
THE BAY 674 Granville St. at Georgia. 604-681-6211. www.thebay.com
Not just for kids: the Contexture Designs mobile
Celebrate the annual fall salmon run in British Columbia with an eye-catching redfish mobile by Contexture Designs. Run by two Vancouverites, this local company was recently awarded Western Living’s 2011 Eco Designer of the Year award. Purchase this mesmerizing ode to the sockeye salmon, made from recycled paper and salvaged maps, at Vancouver Special or online at www.contexture.ca.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
Vancouver Special, 3612 Main St. 604-568-3673.
www.vanspecial.com
Gallant & Jones deckchair
Kick back and relax in a Gallant & Jones deckchair—designed and produced in Vancouver. This stylish addition to any outdoor space is made of North American Black Walnut wood and comes with a colourful selection of fabrics (including the Nefyn, pictured). Cool fact: the product names reflect places near and dear to the creators, including West Coast spots Jericho Beach, Kitsilano and Tofino. Purchase one of these oh-so-comfy loungers, an adjustable pillow and a footstool at Casa or online at www.gallantandjones.com.—Jennifer Patterson
Find an eclectic mix of dining, shopping and places for pampering on this stretch in historic Yaletown
By Jill Von Sprecken
Hamilton Street Grill. Photo by KK Law
SPLURGE ON STYLE
The bold graphic prints at iconic Finnish company Marimekko pack a punch on bright handbags, home accessories and fashions for the whole family. Or try the Goorin Brothers Hat Shop, a brand established in 1895, on for size. The stylish boutique carries a selection of toppers for men and women, ranging from classic to creative.
BEAUTY-FULL
In an area brimming with salons, Noir Lash Lounge has the niche market covered. Eyelash extensions, the only service offered, make peepers pop with styles ranging from au naturel to high drama. At Blo, a bombshell blowout is only a hairdryer away. There’s nary a pair of scissors nor a bottle of dye to be found, just salon-worthy locks in a snap. Guilt-free indulgence can be found at Frilly Lilly, where dessert-inspired beauty products, such as the “bathcake,” are (almost) good enough to eat.
SPOT-ON SEAFOOD
A converted brick-and-beam warehouse space is the backdrop for Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar, where innovative offerings, such as jellyfish and sea urchin, are always local and sustainable as well as beautifully prepared. Drop anchor at casual Rodney’s Oyster House for raw oysters and chowders that are sure to make a splash.
Society. Photo by KK Law
TOP TASTES
For a new take on small plates, visit Hapa Izakaya to sample Japanese tapas, sake and cocktails. At Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill, the extensive wine cellar is second only to the fresh ingredients and traditional flavours, which take centre stage. Try Hamilton Street Grill for steaks or the famous burger, served with aged cheddar and truffle mayonnaise. Sip cool cocktails and nosh on pad thai on Charm Modern Thai’s trendy patio. For other South Asian bites, try Simply Thai or Urban Thai Bistro. Hot spot Society serves creative comfort food with a twist, from spiked milkshakes to lobster shepherd’s pie.
DRINK UP
For inspired cocktails that will get your creativity flowing, check out Raw Canvas. An extensive menu of beer, wine and mixed drinks is served alongside the “painting pit.” Purchase a canvas and unleash your inner artist. If a caffeine buzz is what you’re after, try Argo Cafe for that perfect cup. Fair trade beans are roasted in-house and complemented with soups, sandwiches and baked goods.
BY NIGHT
DJs set the scene at George Ultra Lounge, the perfect spot to sip a classic martini. Built on a foundation of food, drink and graffiti art, 100 Nights is a lively venue with plenty of glitz and glamour. Trendy Afterglow Lounge combines sultry decor, beautiful people and libations—certainly a potent cocktail.
Hamilton Street is a 10-minute walk from downtown. Or take the Canada Line SkyTrain to the Yaletown-Roundhouse stop.
We're digging the lively green colour.
These cheery serving dishes are sure to take your hamburgers and corn on the cob to the next level, and because they’re made of sturdy melamine, you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged. The pièce de résistance? Each dish is a bargain at $2.99 to $5.99 a piece (colours and styles may vary). HomeSense, Bayshore Shopping Centre, 100 Bayshore Dr., 613-721-6451, and 1501 Innes Rd., 613-740-1299.
An exquisite chandelier from Braden Hammond Glass
Local artist Braden Hammond began working with hot glass in 2003, and it wasn’t long before his interest heated up. Some of his most awe-inspiring works of blown glass are his curvaceous, chandelier-esque lights (pictured). If these cool fixtures are a little large for a carry-on bag, take a look at his stunning glass marbles, including a line filled with colourful floral blooms. His work—jewellery, lighting, perfume bottles and decor—can now be found in stores and galleries across Canada. Pop by Gigi B and Circle Craft to purchase one of these unique pieces, or for a full list of retailers visit www.bradenhammond.com.—Jennifer Patterson
Summer looks from Anthropologie
Christmas came early for Vancouver’s fashion crowd with last month’s opening of Anthropologie. Peruse the racks filled with dresses, skirts (including the embroidered majestic medallions skirt, pictured) and swimwear. Once clothing cravings are satisfied, scope out the ornate bedding or stock up on a few art and design books.—Jennifer Patterson
Spend an afternoon exploring the sights and smells of Cambie Street between 17th and 19th avenues, a hotspot for great eats and the latest trends
By Carli Vierke
Cheese from Benton Brothers
The Local Gourmet
It’s foodies’ choice on Cambie. With both local and global fare, the restaurants, cafes and artisan shops offer a mix of flavours. Whether it’s gooey BC cheeses from the family-owned Benton Brothers or homemade tiramisu from Kreation cake shop, everything you need for the perfect epicurean feast is here. Feel like treating yourself without lifting a finger? Enjoy steak frites at the friendly French bistro Pied-à-Terre, or grab a slow-roasted pulled-pork sub to go at Las Tortas Gourmet Mexican Sandwiches.
Eye for Design
Suit up for a stylish stroll at Shop Cocoon, a boutique that features the latest trends in clothing, jewellery and handmade toiletries (think goodies such as hand-milled pomegranate soap), all crafted by local designers. For fashionable inspiration in the home and beyond, check out Walrus, a minimalist shop known for its fun, stylish lifestyle goods such as Scandinavian-designed lanterns or locally designed hot-pink rubber shoes. The space doubles as an art gallery and transforms one night a month into a packed cultural hub where Vancouver artists have their exceptional work showcased.
Ceramic birds from Shop Cocoon
Drink Up
No matter what type of buzz you’re looking for, you’re in good hands. At Beans coffee shop, grab a soy latte while getting cozy on one of the vintage couches or armchairs. For the beer connoisseur, Biercraft Bistro serves dozens of Belgian, imported and local beers. Develop your taste buds with a pint of the creamy Augustijn Blonde alongside a pound of fresh local mussels in a beer, cilantro and lime-butter broth. If you’re seeking libations to go, the Liquor Barn has a good selection of wine, beers and spirits from all over the world. Cheers.
Map of the Trinity Bellwoods area by Marlena Zuber
Marlena Zuber is a multi-faceted Torontonian: she draws, paints, works for a non-profit and is in an indie band. But it’s her informal cartography skills that are turning heads these days. Zuber’s charming yet realistic maps of favourite nabes—The Annex, Kensington Market, Harbourfront and Trinity Bellwoods among them—are a hot commodity. Pick up a framed map ($45 to $85) or a greeting card ($4 each) from Artistry Cards.
Award-winning artist Christine Flynn’s new boutique, Love the Design, offers yet another reason to venture to Leslieville. The aesthetically pleasing gallery-shop is where vintage and modern styles seamlessly co-exist in furniture, such as rustic dining tables and sofas, found objects like a 1920s doctor’s cabinet, and home accents including hurricane lamps and Italian dinnerware. Flynn’s photographic talents are also reflected here, in images hung throughout the space. From urban views of subway signs and hydro lines to pastoral landscapes and studies of horses and stags, her works alternate between intimacy and detachment. Flynn’s Love the Card stationery line also offers custom consultations on-site.
Handmade bowls from Fleet Objects
Local company Fleet Objects creates bright and simple handmade pieces that are the perfect addition to any home or office. Each multi-functional piece from the Pools line (pictured) can act as a jewellery box, decoration and flower vase. Purchase one—or several—at Vancouver Special.—Jennifer Patterson
Contemporary design at MINT Interiors
Add MINT Interiors to that growing list of need-to-visit home design shops. Situated just a stone’s throw from Granville Island, this bright, modern shop carries chic sofas, cool tables, luxurious lamps and cozy throws. The hot list: Alice in Wonderland-esque candle holders by Stephen Jones, Diamantini & Domeniconi’s modern interpretation of a cuckoo clock, and cushions decorated with colourful perched birds or delicate petunias.—Jennifer Patterson
A lovely modern look for the home: this side table is by Christian Woo
The city’s design scene inspires. Martha Sturdy moulds her in-demand resin accessories, while Christian Woo (www.christianwoo.com) streamlines the traditional side table (including Low Profile 2.0, pictured). Brent Comber (www.brentcomber.com) defies gravity with his massive cedar lanterns, and Judson Beaumont (www.straightlinedesigns.com) adds a dash of hilarity to his squid-inspired tables.—Jennifer Patterson
Get a gorgeous home with the furniture and accessories at Örling and Wu
Gastown’s coolest home decor shop, Örling & Wu, stocks everything needed to make an abode look as though it’s straight from a magazine. The creative owners opened up shop last year and used their art and design backgrounds to put together a collection of hard-to-find and unique pieces. The products are a mix of classic and contemporary European styles, with tableware, vintage-inspired furniture and whimsical wallpaper all on display. Stop by to check out some of the exclusive lines being carried, including textiles by the UK’s Cecil Beaton.—Jennifer Patterson
Charming home accessories at Gastown's Old Faithful Shop
Tucked away in Gastown sits Old Faithful, a rustic shop with loads of charm. Owners Walter Manning and Savannah Olsen gave a tip-of-the-hat to the general stores of an era gone by with a brick-walled space chock-full of cleverly crafted items. Having spent many years working in the retail industry, both Manning and Olsen decided it was time to open a place of their own and stock it with the types of products they found interesting. Rugged backpacks, handmade soaps, home-on-the-range dishware, lanterns, Opinel knives, books, cacti and candles—you name it, they’ve probably got it.—Jennifer Patterson
Decor divas flock to Parliament for gorgeous goods
One of the newest additions to Vancouver’s fashion-forward home decor scene is Parliament. Three friends started this chic store that offers items for homes both big and small. A cute touch: the store’s official mascot of an owl is available as a glass or silver figurine, a coffee mug, and salt and pepper shakers.—Jennifer Patterson
On the edge of Yaletown, this street brims with places to give your credit card a workout
By Sheri Radford
The Cross Decor & Design. Photo by KK Law
BEST BUYS
Discerning dogs lead their owners to Barking Babies for treats ranging from crystal necklaces to faux-fur beds to tuxedos—everything a pampered pooch desires. Bibliophiles flock to Book Warehouse for the local titles, current bestsellers and reference books, all marked down by at least 20%, plus the huge assortment of bargain books. Car buffs love to wander around Mini Yaletown, while geeks gather at Mac Station to ogle iPads and MacBooks. Everyone can find a reason to stop by Shoppers Drug Mart, which carries more than the usual pharmacy fare: groceries, DVDs and souvenirs, plus beauty brands such as Lancôme, Clinique, Clarins, Dior and Benefit. Bonus: the Homer location is always open until midnight.
HOME SWEET HOME
Before feathering your nest, first browse through The Cross Decor & Design. The well-edited collection includes elegant armoires, chairs, chandeliers, candles, bedding and bath linens. Find more fine furniture at EntreNous Interiors and luxurious lighting at Lightform. For a piece of artwork to tie a room together, visit Jennifer Kostuik Gallery.
Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar. Photo by KK Law
FINE FOOD
The building dates back almost a century but the menu is modern, with a focus on Pacific Northwest ingredients, at Brix Restaurant & Wine Bar. Ask for a seat on the heated, glass-covered, courtyard patio while you peruse the extensive wine list. If cocktails and martinis are more to your taste, head next door to Shakin’ Not Stirred.
The 1000 and 1100 blocks of Homer Street are a 10-minute walk from downtown. Or take the Canada Line SkyTrain to the Yaletown-Roundhouse stop.
Decor divas flock to The Walrus
They say home’s where the heart is, so just because you’re on vacation, there’s no reason to forsake your humble abode. Head to some of the city’s hippest home decor shops: Walrus (pictured), for the funky monkey candelabra; Vancouver Special, for a rainbow-coloured carpet from Danish brand Hay; Inform Interiors, for classic Eames chairs; and Parliament, for silver owls and nesting tables.—Jennifer Patterson
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