IDS12 Highlights

Last night, the 2012 Interior Design Show held its annual gala party downtown Toronto at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. I had the pleasure of browsing the booths, mingling with designers and snapping shots of the newest finds in design. I’m just scratching the surface here, but here is a selection of some designers and manufacturers we’ve come to love, and some that are brand new. The show is definitely a must-see for anyone interested in design. It’s open to the public this weekend, Saturday February 28th to Sunday February 29th, so be sure to check it out if you’re downtown this weekend! Click here to buy tickets — only $19 if you purchase online.

Along with almost 300 exhibitors, House & Home has a great booth where live Online TV episodes will be filmed over the weekend — stop by and watch! And while you’re in the booth, pick up a few of our back issues or sign up for a discounted subscription. Plus, catch Lynda Reeves at the main stage on Sunday at noon, designer Tommy Smythe and Mark Challen at 1:30, and Suzanne Dimma and Brian Gluckstein at 3:00. There’s tons to do and see at the show!

Designer Mazen El-Abdallah showed off his home in an H&H Online TV video a while back, and his showcase this year proves he still has it. This long marble dining table can double as a work surface in a small condo, something he did in his own home. And this worn leather sofa has classic lines and a vintage feel — timeless!

Toronto designer Jill Greaves has also been featured on Online TV. Her showcase was full of soft greys with fun pops of Hermès orange and blue. I loved these extra-thick floating shelves in a brushed finish.

Miele unveiled a new washer/dryer combo that is easy on the environment and the eyes.

This booth designed by architect Dee Dee Taylor Eustace was right on trend. This soft grey plaid duvet from Hästens would instantly update a bedroom for spring. They paired it with punchy orange — definitely the trend colour at this year’s IDS.

Casalife had several raw wood furniture pieces that would add a rustic feel to a modern space. Add a pair of these tile-inspired charcoal grey throw pillows to your sofa or bed for added texture.

The 28 Series pendant by Vancouver lighting designer Omer Arbel gets me every time — it’s still on my wish list.

AM Studio specializes in custom lighting, and had some gorgeous pendants on display in their booth. I wasn’t the only one snapping photos of this glass number. It’s quite large, but would fill a spacious, industrial loft nicely.

H&H editors source from Snob for art, accessories and furniture with a global feel. Owner Denise Zidel travels frequently through Africa to gather her carefully curated finds, then brings them home to her east-end shop to repurpose, refurbish and sell (with a story, of course). These Halo pendant lights are each the shape of a different waist — 25 Africans participated in the project, and each name is engraved inside their ring. Zidel then made each ring into a light fixture. She gave me the bright idea last night of hanging two on either side of a bed as reading lights — brilliant!

This nickel tub has a classic shape and gorgeous finish — a winning combination. Plus, it’s made from recycled copper and hand-hammered by artisans. Native Trails wowed with this particular tub.

Wetstyle also had some beautiful tubs on display. Their Be Collection tub looked the most comfortable, and I love the wood board to prop your book on.

Variations of orange were everywhere, and Dekla impressed with these burnt orange cabinets.

Stone Forest had this simple bamboo sink on display, and I found even more bamboo versions on their website. Clean lines, renewable materials and smart designs had this company standing out from the crowds.

These large-scale wall tiles from Mettro Source would look sharp as a backsplash in a contemporary white kitchen.

And lastly, Amala Carpets had this ruby runner that would add a hit of bold colour to an entryway.

Be sure to check out IDS12 this weekend for even more great finds, talks and exhibitors!

Photo credits:
1-3, 5-15. Gwen McAuley
4. Miele