Ikon Sink by Blanco
Spacecrafted by Jan Kath
Oscar & Kennedy’s Q9 Series
The 18th annual Interior Design Show, which has become Canada’s best opportunity to see what top designers are showcasing, was held in Toronto in January. Opening its doors in 1999, this show has inspired more than 660,000 visitors, and this year, once again, it did not disappoint. I had a tough time narrowing down my favourite new trends in lighting, furniture, accessories and beyond.
Here are a few of the designs that impressed me the most:
Blanco IKON Sink
The IKON from Blanco made its debut at the show this year and was a definite showstopper. The apron-front sink has had a modern revamp, being made from Silgranit, a durable and gorgeous alternative to the more common ceramic, stainless or copper materials used. A sink is not normally considered the star of the kitchen, but the IKON is one that could definitely take that role.
Space 1 — Jan Kath Design
Inspired by distant galaxies, the Spacecrafted collection from Jan Kath is a stunner. Each carpet in the collection is a vivid take on outer space and is quite photo-realistic. Space 1 caught my eye because of its vivid colour palette and strong design. I would consider this artwork for your floors.
Addition — Garman Furniture (currently a prototype)
This was the second time I met Michael Garman of Garman Furniture. The first time was last year at IDS, when I was quite taken by a mirror he made using felt. This time around, it was this group of tables. What I love is the use of different materials from copper-plated steel, powder-coated steel, honed marble, to walnut — also, the diverse function with the way each table can be combined with others to create an organic table or divider in space is genius.
Q9 Chair — Oscar & Kennedy
At first it was the colour that caught my eye, then when I sat on the chair, I was shocked by how comfortable it was. Designed by Oscar Trainor and Kennedy Telford and hand-built in East Vancouver by Jared Mott, the Q9 chair is sleek and modern. It is designed to move with your body as the back almost pivots to accommodate your movements. It is a perfect office chair or a statement chair in a room, with its simple form and design.
Zig-Zag — Lightmaker Studio
This was love at first sight. A gorgeous vintage-brass wall sconce that is not only a light fixture but a piece of sculptural art for your walls. I also love the different light sources from single bulbs to the conical housing. It’s a perfect mix of mid-century and modern.
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