Thursday, August 28, 2008

John Fluevog shoes

Shoes. Let’s get some shoes. John Fluevog shoes, that is. Freshly opened this month is John Fluevog’s world headquarters that popped up in his old stomping grounds of Gastown in Vancouver, BC.

Back in the 1970s, Fluevog set up shop along these cobblestone streets only to become one of the world’s most popular shoe designers, with fans ranging from Madonna and Marilyn Manson to Robert Altman and the Scissor Sisters.

Some have called his work “rebellious footwear” while others call the art-deco inspired styles “fashionable yet functional.” Either way, his shoes are a mainstay on the international footwear scene and with the new flagship store open, he’s making himself quite at home.

The store itself is a magnificent two-story parking lot turned cathedral with huge glass windows overlooking Vancouver’s railyards and the North Shore mountains as a backdrop.

With displays made from “reclaimed old growth wood, propped up by salvaged pipe from the Alaska pipeline,” the space is environmentally conscious as well as beautiful. Portuguese shoe leather adorns the back wall while a “Green Wall” is being planned where plants will grow up the side of the neighbouring building.

For more information, visit www.fluevog.com.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

JP Purveyors Home

Asian influences have been a staple in design for more than a decade. But, there are few stores that manage to combine these elements in a modern context.

JP Purveyors Home sources fully-refurbished and rebuilt Chinese country furnishings and accessories, in addition to carrying a vast array of affordable non-antique gift items, accessories and home fashions from around the world.

Amongst the antiques are an edited selection of armoires, chests, cabinets, chairs, occasional tables, and sideboards. Each unique piece has been hand-selected and expertly finished by craftsmen in China before arriving in the store. Since they’re a direct importer, they’re able to offer pieces at lower prices - enabling shoppers to enjoy a piece or two in their homes.

JP Purveyors Home believes that creating a beautiful and comfortable home is important. Home is a place where you love, a place that will contain some pieces from this store.

For more information, visit 634 Queen Street West (Toronto, Ontario), or www.jppurveyors.com.