Cedar & Moss

Cedar & Moss is a stylish and wildly affordable lighting company from Portland, Oregon. It was founded in 2013, when former lighting designer and VP of Schoolhouse Electric, Michelle Steinback, couldn't find the perfect European cool but mid century inspired lighting for her own place. Wanting to blend familiar shapes with a fresh perspective and utilize great materials from the US, she's become one of those legends who's gone off to build a successful company out of her own basement. 

Her pieces are classic, refined and definitely on trend - I can see her designs working equally well in the pages of House & Home and Dwell. The tilt cone is probably my fave, with it's modern black and brass finish and a warm glow that cascades out of the adjustable shade. And the Alto Scone below is a total staple - it's so incredibly versatile and works just about anywhere.

Most fixtures on the site range from $75 to $300 and orders can be placed online to both Canada and the States. And if you are seeking a larger chandelier or statement making piece, Cedar & Moss has also recently expended their higher end offerings with Rejuvenation. Be sure to check those out as well!

Mobiles by David Ross

I love mobiles, and no, I don't mean just the ones that go into kids bedrooms. I like how they can add visual interest to an empty corner, adding a quiet moment in a perhaps otherwise ordinary space. When done right, they act as hanging sculptures, helping to draw your eye up, especially if you have high ceilings.

While there are few grown up versions that I admire, the one that truly stands out above all others is by South African designer and photographer, David Ross.

I've been coveting his work for a few years now, and I find his mobiles to be downright sexy. I know it's a bit of an odd statement to make when directed at a hanging object, but his designs feel cool, modern, and unexpected. I especially like how the one above has so many contradictions - the shape is quite organic, yet the matte black accents add edge and the brass details are refined and elegant. Each of his pieces feel carefully balanced, waiting for a gentle breeze to make it come to life.

I feel all of these would look at home in a sparse but ultra modern Parisian flat, and of course, since we are daydreaming, in my own bedroom.  If you are interested in acquiring one of his pieces, you will have to reach out to the only showrooms that carry his work, located in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town.

A Minimalist Bed for Minimalist Seekers

Since we recently splurged on a new mattress (which, btw, is one of the best purchases we have ever made, it's sooooo incredibly comfortable), we really needed to bite the bullet and also get a new bed frame. Our new mattress needs to "breathe", so slats were mandatory and my 15 year old frame from EQ3 just wasn't cutting it.

We wanted something low, not too heavy, and easy to transport down the line, since we are living on the third floor of a rental. Surprisingly, choices were pretty limited. Right off the bat, I knew I didn't want to do anything upholstered, so anything upholstered was out. Don't get me wrong - upholstered beds are beautiful, and many caught my eye, but anything that adds an extra bit of cleaning responsibility to my life, needs to get cut.

I found a few options that I really liked, the first being the American Modern Bed from DWR. I love it's simple and classic lines, it's canted headboard, and the fact that it's a formaldehyde-free product crafted out of FSC-certified solid maple. But coming in at $2,885 (US), and with a six week lead time, it was a bit much.

My next find was the Modernica Case Study V Leg Bed from The Modern Shop. It has a maple veneer finish, is handcrafted in California, and since each bed is engineered and built with six legs instead of the standard four, it's incredibly sturdy. At $2,199 the price was more affordable, and simply put, this frame is definitely not at risk for going out of style.

Another option that I considered was the Piers Wooden Bed, created by Urban Green Furniture in Brooklyn, which retails for a base $1349 (and also sold by Dwell Studio). It's classic and sophisticated, made of wood and veneers, and it features a surprisingly sustainable, non toxic and eco-friendly design. It also comes in 8 different finishes, so chances are it will match whatever interior you have designed.

Clearly by now you may have realized that I have a type, and I'm OK with that. While I liked all the beds above, I still wanted to find something a tad more streamlined, lighter and simple to set up. Enter the Min Bed from DWR.

I know - it's a metal bed, totally not what I thought that I would want, but it's so elegant and minimalist and perfectly suited to small spaces with it's barely visible design. Coming in at $985 (US), it's a smart choice for apartment living and I love it's sleek lines. Plus it was a snap to set up. Minus the fact that it was the hottest day on record and our A/C has been broken for a week and a half. I know we are going to love this bed for years to come, and when we finally get our own place and want to switch to a wood frame, it will have no problem finding a new home in a guest suite or a cottage. Oh and as an added bonus, it's curved design has ensured that our shins remain bruise free, which when you really think about it, is priceless.

Anna Karlin

Anna Karlin is one of those people you should probably hate - she's insanely talented, young, British, lives in NY, and is a total babe. But life is too short to hate, and I totally admire anybody who is doing what they love and and who is also doing it so well.

If you are wondering to yourself, who is this magical creature? Well you are in luck. Here are some examples of what Anna Karlin does so very incredibly exceptionally well.

Drooling over this lamp.

OMG she makes rugs too. And 100% wool.

Oh right, chairs too.

And the most super fun, 80s inspired stools. I will take all four. Please.

She also makes hand blown glass and works in brass. This decanter is beautiful.

In all seriousness, what kind of school do you go to in order to become so well versed in a million design mediums? Even her website is killing it. It's so good. I would not be surprised if she made it too.

From the looks of it, you can currently purchase her products direct (from her NY based shop - open appointment only) or you can order straight from her website as well. You can even get in touch with her to do custom pieces if you so fancy. And if you can afford it, I would really consider getting one of her pieces now, because with the amount of buzz she's already getting, I can only imagine she's going to blow up in a very big way.

Egg Collective

Egg Collective is a New York based design company that creates truly beautiful and exquisite furniture and lighting products. They use only the finest of natural materials (such as domestic hardwoods and stone) and allow all of their unsealed metal finishes to, over time, develop a patina.

The Russel Dining Table is brilliantly simple and available in walnut, natural oak, blackened white oak, and bleached maple (seen above). Coming in at 120" in length, it can seat 10 very comfortably, but custom sizing is available upon request.

One of my other favorites is the Fern table. This would be the perfect piece to put in a long entry beside the stairs, or perhaps in a living room that needed extra display space. Just like the Russel Dining Table, it is also available in different wood finishes. While the blackened white oak is a stunner (seen on their website), I can't get enough of light wood these days.

Another standout is the Margot George Chandelier, featuring hand blown glass and satin brass. I love the smokey look of the glass, adding another layer of sexiness and glamour.

I also enjoy how their side tables can look completely different when viewed at different angles. The three ladies behind Egg Collective certainly know how to keep things fresh and unexpected.

If you are interested in one of their pieces, feel free to contact the company directly or go to their online shop for more info. They can help you organize shipping and delivery, or if you are a New York native, they are open throughout the week and can be found at 304 Hudson Street.

Design Cheats vs Originals

When it comes to designing products, it's getting harder and harder to come up with original ideas that not only look beautiful and (hopefully) function well, but ones that will grab enough attention in an overcrowded market and actually sell.  I get it, it's a tough biz these days.

But what happens when designers "borrow" from others and create products that are direct copies or slightly altered versions of the original? One such product that I recently stumbled across is this Sonora Canyon Sling Chair from Ralph Lauren (left), which bears a direct resemblance to the Borge Mogensen "Spanish" chair (right).

Call me crazy but this is a total rip off of the original Spanish chair. Sure it's in a darker finish, it's missing the flat arms and they've added an extra piece on the base, but it's essentially THE SAME CHAIR.

What is even more astounding, however, is that the Ralph Lauren chair, priced at $5,625 is actually more expensive than the Borge Mogensen chair, priced at $4,950. I understand that a lot of "knock off" versions of many different products exist out there, but when they are priced higher than the original, that's just insane. So I'm not sure if I should technically call the Sonora Canyon Sling Chair a knock off, a replica or an homage to the original.  I'm just shocked that nobody has called them out on this yet.

Whimsical Textiles by Joseph Frank

I'm pretty sure I have a split personality disorder because I'm all about soothing, clean, minimalist rooms one minute and the next it's pattern and color all the way. I love loud spaces as much as calm spaces, and sometimes I'm sorry that my husband married a Gemini, because he's never quite sure what he's going to get.

Deep down in my core, I truly believe that you can inject a few bold patterns and prints into any decor without making you go absolutely crazy. The challenge, of course, is keeping a cohesive color palette and letting an in your face pattern take center stage.

I'm currently taken with fabric and wallpaper patterns from Swedish design icon Joseph Frank. So playful and fun, they are just waiting to perk up a tired or dreary looking space. I find this his designs are a fresher and more youthful take on patterns created by his idol, William Morris, whose work I adore as well. All these textiles are printed by hand, mainly in Sweden, on 100 percent cotton or linen. I would love to put a single cacti print cushion on a white slip covered sofa with a solid cushion, in yellow or pink, behind it - you don't need much else since so much is already happening there.

Now moving onto this wallpaper. The bottom left is my absolute favorite, as the flower stems appear to be climbing up and away. I like how the large flowers are in direct contrast to the tiny blue flowers, allowing your eye to really take in the larger florals and their shapes. It would look absolutely lovely in a family friendly entry, especially if it had white painted trim, high ceilings and glossy white painted floors for dramatic effect.

All these are available for online purchase from Svenskt Tenn, an interior design shop in Stockholm, Sweden, or if you live near New York, there is a shop in Tribeca called Just Scandinavian that carries Joseph Frank textiles as well. Canada, I hate to disappoint you, but as always, you can expect to pay hefty shipping fees. However, if you are trade, simply head to Kravet and place orders away to your hearts content.

One Fabric - Two Ways

I discovered this sweet Kerry Joyce flower power linen fabric last summer at Primavera, and I can't seem to get it out of my head. It comes in a few different colorways, but the stone and love pink are definitely my favorites.

I would love to use it as a window treatment in a modern girls nursery.  I like the idea of pairing this fabric with more natural wood finishes in oak or birch for an organic feel, while adding a few black and white geometric prints like the Aelfie rug in Optik Black for more contrast. And how amazing would it be if there was room for a pink sofa, obviously...

While the fabric certainly does veer "nursery-ish", I think it can also work in a more grown up and playful space. In the room below, it would add an unexpected dose of sweetness to the otherwise clean and minimalist vibe.  And it works so beautifully with the angel wing Ingo Maurer sconce that's available at Klaus. How gorgeous would two of these beauties look flanking a richly sculpted marble fireplace? Simply add some oak herringbone floors and this room is nearly complete!

Decorative Tiles from Bonnie & Neil

I'm officially going on record to proclaim my love for tile. I always have, and I always will, whether it's on trend or not. I love how a small section of patterned tile can add a huge dose of personality to any space, the way it connects with those who surround themselves with it, and how it can bring back a happy travel memory in an instant.

Maybe it's because I lived in Greece as a kid, and have fond memories of seeing plenty of sun drenched tiles at my feet, but the warmth and character that it can bring to any environment is truly extraordinary. And as much as I love wallpaper and paint, tile really can't be beat.

While I can daydream for hours about adding a stunning tiled floor in my future kitchen, I simply must make do in our rental for the time being. But that all changed when I saw these beautiful glue adhesive decorative tiles from Bonnie & Neil.

Whaaaat? No grout you say? Yes this is real. These hand screen printed plywood tiles can be glued or pin gunned directly onto your floors, walls, and anywhere else you see fit. Now, these are decorative only, so perhaps not the wisest idea to use them as a backsplash or as a floor in your bathroom. Use common sense please. And yet you can do so much with these. Want to make your own patterned custom coffee table? Just throw a piece of glass on top and you are all set. See?

Please note that before you rush out to order these, any order requires a 4-6 week lead time and you should contact the shop directly to discuss shipping costs since they are based in Australia. Perhaps it's worth going in with some friends and splitting the fees!

So you don't like sleeping on chemicals either? Great.

I've always had a crush on Hästens mattresses. The checkered pattern, the luxurious natural fabrics and materials made of horse hair and carefully selected Swedish pine, the unbelievable craftsmanship, and of course, the promise of the ultimate sleep experience.

These mattresses are the stuff dreams are made of, literally, if you have a kidney to sell or a 5% down payment on a house in the GTA. If only I wasn't so squeamish about selling off that one kidney...but I am, and I would like to keep growing that down payment for a house that I still probably will not be able to afford in Toronto. And yet my husband and I desperately needed a new mattress - ours is uncomfortable, sad, and pathetic - and so the search began.

We looked (and by we I do mean me) for months online to find a natural, safe, non toxic mattress that wouldn't cost us and arm and a leg. This was a tough search. I read countless comments on websites, any reviews I could get my hands on, articles with any mentions, forums, you name it. So many companies make claims to being "natural", or "organic", and the reality is that most of these claims are well, kind of fake. So how do you wade through these murky waters to find a mattresses that will actually be good for you and your family? I wish I could give you the perfect answer, but until these companies are actually held liable like other industries for making specific claims, it's really up to you to do the most research that you can and go with what feels right at the end of the day.

What I can tell you is that I finally narrowed it down to three choices - Obasan, Essentia, and Dormio.

While they were all good contenders, in the end we ended up going with Dormio mattresses, and we settled on their Premium collection. I loved the addition of the cloud like wool pillow top that makes you feel like you are basically sleeping on a comfy duvet. Their beds are made of organic latex (don't confuse this with the disgusting memory foam you will find in other mattresses - organic latex comes from the rubber tree and it is 100% natural), organic wool, and organic cotton.

They have many different mattresses at many different price points - you just have to find the one that works for you. And while some might think our mattresses was a definite splurge, to us it's more of an investment in our health and our future. We sleep in our bed 8 hours a day (if we are lucky), and this mattresses will last us for a good 20 years. It's completely customizable, and we can actually make changes to it as we grow. It's like a living and breathing thing that will adapt to our lifestyle for many years to come.

Also, the service that we received at this store was exceptional. Never once did I feel pushed into making a purchase, and my husband and I spent almost two hours testing out and learning more about their products. All of these mattresses are Canadian made, and we even purchased two wool pillows (they also have alpaca, kapok, buckwheat, and latex as well), a wool duvet, and some organic sheets to complete our new mattress set. Everything is being delivered in a few weeks and we absolutely cannot wait.

And just so everyone knows, this is NOT a paid advertisement. I actually liked the company so much, that I asked if they had a referral system, and they offered any of my clients or readers an extra 10% off on all of their products. So go now, while they still have sales!

The New Craftsmen

The New Craftsman is an online retailer that supports over 75 of Britain's finest craft makers. Items for purchase span many disciplines that give a contemporary take on specific skills and materials in textiles, ceramics, furniture, glassware etc. You can tell that everything is well made and that each piece is special. Just take a look at this coral mirror crafted in jesmonite from Eddy & Grice. I would love to use this in a powder room, above a marble fireplace, or even an entry.

Another one of my absolute favorites is this whimsical black and white hand blocked print by Cameron Short. It's beautiful and eerie all at once.

Last but not least, is the work of Laura Carlin, who is quickly becoming a well known young British artist. I really enjoy her charming illustration style, done here on ceramic tile. I would love to add these as an unexpected touch in a kids bathroom, perfect as a backdrop to a little soap niche in the shower.

While The New Craftsmen does ship internationally, be prepared for expensive shipping rates and duties. Perhaps it's better to make the trip across - it's a good excuse anyways.

Get in Line

The Line constantly wows me with it's beautifully curated selections on everything from home goods to art to woman's ready to wear.  I have no recollection how I came across their website, but I'm here to stay. They specifically tailor products on offer that are classic, minimalist, beautiful and I hope, long lasting. Prices are pretty broad - so either normal or wildly expensive, but you get what you pay for.

I also really enjoy their art selection. But be prepared for sticker shock here. This stuff is not cheap. This is my favorite piece by Max Snow and it retails for $8,000.

What is the most intriguing thing about the shop however, is how they sell their products. Not only are they an online retailer, but they also sell out of their "Apartment", located on the third floor of a building in Soho, where customers can shop the stylized home itself. They also host dinners, workshops (like ballet classes & how to throw together beautiful floral centerpieces), and allow their customers to interact with some of their designers. I know others who have done pop ups in the same vein, but what's great about the Line is that they do it year round. It's not a gimmick but part of who they are. They also ship internationally, and you can expect shipping fees to be calculated at checkout. But be prepared to pay duties, taxes and customs fees if you are ordering to Canada.

Horse Watches

All of my life I've been plagued by the awful inability to wear most jewelry. I'm highly allergic to anything other than gold, silver and titanium. My biggest problem is that I'm a sucker for gold, and won't wear anything else anyways, so jewelry purchases can get rather expensive, which means for me...pretty much non existent. For years I've been wearing a gorgeous gold Breitling watch given to me by my father, but since it's not something I want to damage or lose, I can't really have it in rotation everyday. I'm still on the hunt for an affordable alternative, but not much has popped up of late. Until I found Horse watches. Now IF I could wear stainless steel (these beauties are made with rose gold, but the back of them is stainless which means I'm still allergic), this watch would pretty much be on my left arm 24/7.

Horse watches are made in Sydney, Australia, by a cute couple carrying on the traditions of three prior generations of shoe cobblers. And yes, of course, they make shoes as well. But for me, it's their watches that have me smitten. I like how minimalist this design is. It's so clean and forgoes any embellishment, because when something is this beautiful, it's not needed. Here is another one of my top picks - this one is called "The Classic".

Light grey and rose gold and only $189 - how can you go wrong? If only my pathetic and sensitive body could be allergy free...but for now I can still admire these beauties from a distance. And if I so desire I can look at them at Likely General, one of my favorite stores on Roncesvalles in Toronto, where they are stocked but go quite quickly. Call in advance to see if they have any on hand or ask to be put on the waiting list.

The Adorable World of Orla Kiely

I first encountered Orla Kiely's products when I lived in London, was dirt poor, and I immediately wanted to buy EVERYTHING. I think I was browsing upstairs at John Lewis, hoping to score some deals on some bedding and towel options for my new place (and by new, I mean the ex council flat I had just rented along with 3 complete strangers where I was to be living in the smallest of 4 bedrooms, which may have been a closet with a small window), and wham, Orla's products hit me right in the face. The bright colors, patterns and whimsical prints made me feel happy and safe, and offered a cheerfulness that I so desperately needed.

Perhaps it's because I was completely exhausted, hungry, alone and about to head back to my new home, with it's impossibly tight quarters, and was dreading climbing back into the bed that offered stained sheets from the previous tenant (with an equally suffocating polyester duvet and pillow combo) that I handed over my credit card in complete disregard to prices that I couldn't afford, and treated myself to a lovely new queen sized set of pillow covers from Orla's line that I still have today.

While I couldn't afford the whole set, I finished off the bed with crisp white cotton linens and a down filled pillow and duvet, and topped it off with a teal cotton coverlet from Habitat. I dragged everything home, set it all up, and plopped on my new bed. I know it might have be silly to spend money on such a small luxury at a time when I probably ate one meal a day, but it was the only piece of comfort I owned and let me tell you, it was worth every penny.

I'm still a huge fan of Orla's today, and have since received a sugar container as a gift that I proudly display in my kitchen in Toronto, and I purchased "Home", Orla Kiely's book that came out earlier this year. And if you are not familiar with her designs, make sure to check out her website for a multitude of product offerings - everything from clothing to shoes to housewares. At this time, nobody that I know of stocks Orla Kiely's designs in Canada (with the exception of Chapters Indigo for her stationary / gardening goods), but if you are lucky enough to go stateside, she has a wonderful shop in Soho and of course, many shops in the UK. 

Boscia's New Stick Face Cleanser

I didn't really think I was going to talk about makeup or cleansers here, but it's hard to resist not writing about a natural beauty product that works, smell great, and is free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Plus did I mention it's made of bamboo charcoal? Yes that black stuff that looks like soot but actually has the power to absorb a variety of impurities and toxins from your skin.

I bought this little magic stick last week at Sephora on a whim, and I'm so glad I did. I already add charcoal sticks to help purify my water on the go, so I figured it was worth trying it on my skin. It's so easy to use - simply swipe, use a little water, lather up and rinse. And yes I can already see a huge difference - it's made my skin feel softer, brighter, and tighter. I only wish it came in a larger size to use on the rest of my body in the shower.

Oh Hay...

What can I say about Hay furniture. Well, first, I am a sucker for anything Danish, modern, simple, extremely functional and durable. Hay truly accomplishes all of these feats, and they are gifted with being Danish, so it's truly a win win for everybody. What is there not to love about Hay furniture? Just take a look at an example of a perfect Hay office chair. I love how the bright citron pops against the white shell with a base that's done in a soap treated oak. This chair would look just as good in an office, dining room or kids play space.

Another one of my absolute favorites is this exceptionally well crafted and classically designed dining room chair. It comes in a variety of different colors, but the black is so smart and stylish. I would love to use this on both ends of a black dining room table.

Clearly by now you've fallen in love with Hay chairs, but the company also makes sofas, tables, bookcases...too many things to show you here. I highly recommend you check out their website. Besides making super great furniture pieces, they also have a huge accessories line.

All of the above products can be found for purchase online at The Modern Shop which offers free shipping anywhere in Canada on orders over $99.

Juju Papers

Juju Papers are so incredibly simple and sweet you are going to want to put them up immediately. This relatively young wallpaper company comes from Portland, you know, that super hip, creative place where everything amazing is made? Not only do they make quirky and cute wallpapers, they are also made as naturally as possible, using only water based inks on sustainably harvested paper that's super durable. Oh and every roll is printed by hand.

The one above is definitely one of my favorites. It's light, whimsical, imperfectly perfect, fun and doesn't try to hard. The gold on white is a striking combo that for me, it simply can't be beat. I would jump to use this in a dining room, pairing it with a vintage teak table and blue accents. Or in a white and serene nursery to add a playful touch.

If you are feeling a bit bolder, I would go for this Sister's of the Sun print, in a striking navy and gold pairing. It would look equally great in a powder room or front entry. While I don't think anybody stocks this line in Toronto, you can order straight from the web, or if you are a design professional, contact the shop directly to ask about trade pricing and bespoke options.

Cynthia Rowley for J.Crew

I have a thing for J.Crew. Their designs are fun, fresh, and often timeless. Ever since they came to Canada, it's been so much easier for me to add their stylish pieces into my wardrobe. Which is quickly becoming a mini J.Crew shop, and I'm ok with that. But what I really really love about J.Crew is their collaborations. I've always thought that boring, bland, and uninspired wetsuits needed an upgrade, and I instantly fell in love with Cynthia Rowley's designs when they debuted last year.

Of course, this year she has done it again. I love the bright colors - it just feels SO FRESH. Do I need this right now in my life? Not necessarily, but I do wish I had this when I used to wakeboard many years ago. Perhaps I need to start up again.

Suite One Studio

Ok...so I've been slightly obsessed with Suite One Studio's pieces for a little while now and I don't think I will be stopping anytime soon. These gorgeous and delicate porcelain beauties make  lovely gifts and are such special treasures. Just take a look at these stunning dessert plates with a rose watercolor swirl.

I love how Lindsay produces small batch short runs in her own studio and you can tell just how much thought goes into everything she designs.  The small ring dishes are perfect for a bedside table, or on your vanity in the bathroom.  Speckles of gold are the perfect touch.

But I also adore her larger platters - this lace cheeseboard really is a showstopper. If you want to snag one of her covetable pieces, make sure you check her site often, which is restocked every Tuesday.

Emily Green

Emily Green is a Melbourne based artist who makes the most awesome necklaces I could ever have imagined.  I am basically obsessed with her designs. I don't know how she finds the perfect pairings, it's as if the 80s and 90s fell in love, and somehow they ended up making really awesome beaded necklaces in super cool punchy color combinations. It's soooooo incredibly hard to choose just one. Just try. You will spend an hour flipping back and forth finding THE ONE.

I love the clay and brass combinations, and I'm also a sucker for her marble and fruit gelato inspired ones.

Not only does Emily make necklaces, earrings and prints, she also makes contemporary stacked pendant lights developed in collaboration with Melbourne designer Dale Hardiman. I love how simple and stylish these designs are. They come in different shades to suit any interior, and I can pretty much see them working in any setting - over an island, in the bathroom, above the bedside table, you name it, it works. Unfortunately, I don't know anybody who carries this in Canada, which is a real shame. You can try contacting Leif, one of my favorite online shops in the US, who carries her necklace line.