Planning on furnishing your condo? Check out our downtown Toronto furniture-buying guide to learn where you can find hot trends and great deals.
It happens every year. Fall arrives, and I find myself drawn to the city’s home furnishing and decor shops. The storefronts start calling my name, and I have no choice but to hit the pavement in search of a new ottoman, coffee table, or comforter.
I know I’m not the only one. When the temperature drops, Torontonians start spending more time at home—and getting ideas about how to make their condos and houses more comfortable.
This year, I wanted to make things easier for downtown shoppers. That’s why I’ve assembled this brief furniture-buying guide. If you’re thinking of doing some redecorating this fall, here are five furniture and decor shops you have to check out…
1) Kare Design
Kare Design is a Munich-based company that describes itself as “unique, non-conformist, and authentic.” Needless to say, the aesthetic you’ll find at its Queen West location is anything but ordinary. This 2,200-square-foot space is one the chicest showrooms in the city. Whether you’re looking for lighting, furniture, or textiles, I can pretty much guarantee you’ll find something that’s both ultra-stylish and perfect for your condo.
Need some time to think about that sectional or kitchen table you found? Check out Kare Design’s Roomplanner app. Available for iPhones and iPads, the app lets you see what furniture in the store will look like in your home.
2) BLVD Interiors
I couldn’t put together a furniture-buying guide without including BLVD Interiors. Just a few minutes west of Kare Design, this store definitely deserves a spot on your “must-visit” list. First off, it offers a wide selection of modern home furnishings. Whether you’re looking for a plush velvet chair or a recycled-wood table, you’ll find it here. Second, it’s affordable—perfect for all you budget-conscious shoppers. Third, BLVD Interiors is Canadian-owned. What’s not to love?
If you need another reason to visit this Queen West gem, consider the customer service. The staff really know their stuff, and they’re always happy to offer design advice.
3) Nirvana Home Collection
If you’re in the Yorkville area, check out Nirvana Home Collection. Located in Manulife Centre, this carefully-laid-out showroom offers all the convenience of department store shopping. More importantly, it’s full of seriously comfortable home essentials. I’m talking about ergonomic chairs, high-quality mattresses, and goose-down comforters. If you’re looking for quality, you simply can’t go wrong at Nirvana Home Collection.
4) West Elm
West Elm is the place to go if you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for. The popular retailer is operated by Williams-Sonoma, the company that also owns Pottery Barn. As you might expect, this one-stop-shop is a go-to for affordable basics. At the King West location, you’ll find everything from simple, modern furniture to accents such as throw pillows and potted plants.
Pro tip: you can visit West Elm’s website to browse their collections from home. Not only that, but I’ve found some great decorating tips there. A recent post delved into making the most of small spaces—a must-read for many Toronto condo dwellers.
5) Morba
Now for something totally different. The next store in my furniture-buying guide may not be for everyone. But if you’re the type who likes to do some digging to find unique home treasures, you’ll love Morba. When you walk into this eclectic Queen West shop, you’ll find yourself surrounded by funky furniture, retro glassware, and futuristic clocks.
My favourite part of Morba? The ceiling. I suggest looking up as soon as you walk into the shop. You’ll find an abundance of vintage light fixtures—including handmade Danish lamps—hanging there.
Searching for the perfect condo to furnish? I know the downtown Toronto market, and I can help you find your dream home. Contact me at 416-500-5360 or send me an email at rashid.notash@rogers.com.
