Our Faves at IDS Toronto ‘23
You asked and I’m delivering! I’ve rounded up my favourites from our visit to the 2023 Interior Design Show in Toronto.
There were plenty of exhibitors we loved for practical reasons, and maybe I will write a separate post about that. But this summary is all about who INSPIRED me the most (in no particular order). I promise I tried to narrow it down…but I couldn’t leave any one of these off the list.
Leave a comment with your favourite and enjoy!
1- OBAKKI
Why we love them: As some of you may know, I used to work for a social enterprise that focused on employment opportunities and income security for women around the world. We brought their artisan goods to market in North America and built lasting relationships. Before I even knew Obakki was a purpose-led brand, I was in awe of their stunning products and knew there was something special here.
Favourite product: Can I say all of them? I definitely love the Oaxacan Clay collection.
2- CELINA K STUDIO
Why we love them: Earthy, delicate and organic. There is something mesmerizing about these stone-like ceramics and I love that the mix of both practical objects and art pieces. They offer a familiar and welcoming sensory experience and I couldn’t take my eyes off of them.
Favourite product: This was a really tough choice but I keep coming back to the Graffiti Liquid Dispenser. Such a sweet item to hold oil or dressings or milk for tea time.
3- OBJECTS & IDEAS
Why we love them: Clean, minimalist lines, handcrafted and elegant. These pieces are truly inspirational- conceptual art in the form of furniture. I also love that each piece has customizable options.
Favourite product: The Viking Bench. This piece is simple & practical but doesn’t sacrifice on design.
4- LIGHTMAKER STUDIO
Why we love them: Original lighting, handcrafted in Canada. Sophisticated but cool. On trend yet timeless. Just YES.
Favourite product: The Betty Sconce. I love the updated take on a mid-century design and that you can customize the back plate and glass finishes to suit the needs of any space.
5- SUZANNE FARIS
Why we love them: Funny story, I used to buy goods from Suzanne for a retailer I worked for several years ago and I’ve been a big fan ever since. I was thrilled to meet her and see her new product line in person at the show. Suzanne is a true creative, always dabbling in something new with her small batch design method, and doing it so well each time she does.
Favourite product: We love Suzanne’s playful terrazzo-topped tables that are handcrafted at her shop in St. Thomas.
6- PARVA FABRICA
Why we love them: First off, they had the most beautiful booth of the entire show (IMHO). They were partnered with a few other brands and knocked it out of the park. Second off, the brand name means “Little Workshop” in latin as that’s adorable. Finally, their home and lifestyle goods are ON POINT with locally handmade and all natural options.
Favourite product: Everything. But if we must choose, The Masseria tableware collection…and the Japanese towels.
7- BLACK ROCK TILE STUDIO
Why we love them: I’ve been watching “For the Love of Kitchens” on the Magnolia Network and admiring the way Devol Kitchens create their signature line of perfectly imperfect handmade kitchen products. Black Rock studio immediately reminded me of this incredible craftsmanship. Handmade in Toronto, every tile is one of a kind.
Favourite product: This Hunter Green Subway Tile. I love the variation, the rich tone and the beautifully imperfect edges.
8- DRACHM APOTHECARY
Why we love them: Never in my life have I smelled something so wonderful. And never in my life have I been stopped in my tracks by bar soap. They were THAT good.
Favourite product: They were all dreamy, but the Cypress Cedarwood Bar Soap takes the cake for me.
9- FINEFOLK
Why we love them: Simple furniture with a distinct point of view. Katrina’s designs and advocacy for craft tug on our heart strings and are everything that is right with the world.
Favourite product: The Finefolk Chair. It’s what caught our eye and reminded us of how much we love traditional Scandinavian design.
10- GEON TILE
Why we love them: I’ve been a fan of Geon for a while. There were so many people huddled around the booth so we didn’t try to squeeze in, but didn’t need to because we knew how awesome they were already. It can be tricky to source unique product in Canada- I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said how much easier this job would be if we were in the US. So I applaud Geon (and their sister River City Tile), because they see this gap and are building something special for us folks north of the border. Not only that but with environmental and social responsibility at the forefront.
Favourite product: Their 100% hand-crafted authentic Moroccan Zellige tiles are to DIE FOR, we’re partial to Natural White.
11- MAHA ALAVI
Why we love them: This was actually one of the most exciting encounters at the show. It’s always a treat to see innovation and artistry in unexpected places. The unique forms in her hardware pieces brought me such joy, I am just itching use them in a design. I enjoyed reading the thoughtful and vivid design inspiration behind each piece on her website.
Favourite product: The Fauna Towel Bar & Roll Holder. I love the organic and feminine shape for such a utilitarian item.
12- MT. PROSPECT STUDIO
Why we love them: These sculptural clay and ceramic pieces by Jenny Santos were beautiful to behold. They blur the lines between something found in nature and a handmade object. The fungi wall installation at the show was a wonder and I’m so glad I was able to see it. I would love to have any of her pieces on display in my home or for a client project.
Favourite product: They are in the process of launching their online shop, but peeking at their Instagram account I am in love with their new work called Grace Vessel.
13- SEEDLIP
Why we love them: Absolutely nothing to do with interior design, but we REALLY enjoyed our Seedlip mocktails at the show. I love having an incredible non-alcoholic option available, these are definitely becoming a staple in my house. If you have time, read their story on the website, it’s inspiring.
Favourite product: Surprisingly (to me) I really enjoyed the Garden flavour, “a fresh, herbal blend of Peas & traditional garden herbs including Rosemary, Thyme & Spearmint.”
14- FLAX HOME
Why we love them: Linen is by far my favourite textile for bedding, and this company founded by 3 friends does it SO well. The products are thoughtfully designed in Canada and ethically produced, which I love.
Favourite product: While I genuinely want everything from the duvet and sheet sets to the robe, The Heirloom Quilt in Juniper stole my heart and is perfect for layering.