New At Ikea - My Faves

The 2010 Ikea catalogue arrived in the mail a couple of weeks ago, and I finally had the chance to browse through it today - it's always interesting to see what new items the designers have come up with. I'm not endorsing top to bottom Ikea decor, but I will admit that sometimes the pieces just "work".

In my home I have three key Ikea pieces - an Bjursta sideboard in my living room which I use as an entertainment unit, along with an Expedit bookcase for open display, plus I have a Torsby sideboard in my kitchen to store large items. For me, that's enough Ikea for one home, however, every season there are some fun & fresh accessories. Below are my favourites from the new catalogue.

Small Lack Shelf

This shelf is just 11 3/4" (30 cm) wide which makes it perfect for display in small spaces. I can imagine using three shelves vertically, and placing a single sculptural piece on each shelf. Available in red, black or white and only $6.99 each!!

Grapefrukt Planter

Technically designed for use as a planter, this vessel could also be used on a kitchen counter to hold cooking utensils. Also available in red, black or white and priced at $7.99 each.

Savern Bathroom Series

Hanger, $4.99/pkg of 2

Toilet Roll Holder, $14.99

Towel Holder, $12.99

This bathroom series is chrome plated, and includes eight co-ordinating accessories - these three pieces are my favourites. I love the sleek, modern design and the price points are totally affordable.

Check out all of Ikea's New products here.

Birthday List

With another birthday looming, I've been asked for a birthday list, and apparently I think my friends & relatives are multi-millionaires. So here is my Fantasy Birthday List:

Singer
Precision 7444

Coach Madison Collection

'Sabrina' in Yellow

Tiffany Beads
18k Gold, 8mm

Christian Louboutin
Black Ballet Flats

All Expenses Paid Weekend
New York City

Leon's at the Roundhouse

This past July 8th, Leon's celebrated the Grand Opening of a store in downtown Toronto at Roundhouse Park, which lies immediately south of the Rogers Centre. The new location shares occupancy of the Roundhouse with neighbour Steam Whistle Brewery, and eventually the building will also house the Toronto Railway Heritage Centre.




Although the initial proposal to open a Leon's at the Roundhouse was met with disapproval from many Torontonians, the project went ahead as planned and the final results are nothing short of brilliant. The architect has taken great pains to avoid any alteration of the original structure - the showroom has been seamlessly incorporated into the building.




In light of its location, this new Leon's offers contemporary furnishings designed to suit small downtown condominium dwellings. The selections are hip, urban and modern - not exactly what you'd expect from this traditional furniture retailer. I highly recommend checking out this location, since it offers a chance to shop while you appreciate a part of Toronto's architectural history.

Allan Gardens Toronto

This summer, more than ever before, I am enjoying the serenity provided in the tranquil gardens of Toronto. My most recent visit was to Allan Gardens, located south of Carlton between Jarvis and Sherbourne. This area of the city has developed a bad reputation in recent years, but once inside the conservatories, the world outside fades away. The city of Toronto is currently implementing a revitalization program for Allan Gardens. Hopefully this plan will make the park an even more enjoyable place to visit for Toronto residents and tourists alike.

Entering the core of Allan Gardens

The Palm House, Built 1910

Toronto Horticultural Society

Founded in 1834 under the patronage of Sir John Colborne, lieutenant-governor of Upper Canada (1828-36), this was the first horticultural society organized in this province. Established to encourage the introduction and cultivation of improved varieties of fruits, plants and vegetables, its first president was the Honourable George Markland, inspector-general of Upper Canada. An oval of five acres was donated to the society by the Honourable George W. Allan and on September 11, 1860 the Horticultural Gardens were opened by the Prince of Wales (Edward VII). Additional land was leased from the municipality of Toronto in 1864 and in 1888 this park was turned over to the city. It was named Allan Gardens in 1901.

Entering the Cool House Conservatory

Inside the Tropical House Conservatory

What a beautiful pattern!!! And a soft, velvety texture!

Read more about the Heritage of Allan Gardens here.

Find out more about the Revitalization Plan for Allan Gardens here.

All photos by cherishtoronto.

Anthropologie Shops at Don Mills

I've been to Anthropologie a few times now, but for those of you who haven't had a chance to stop in, here are some photos of the Shops at Don Mills location:

Located on Clock Tower Road

A Good Selection of Unique Small Housewares

Colourful Bedding

Extensive Collection of Knobs for Cabinets & Dressers

So pretty!!