April showers bring May flowers and like many this year, we have been more excited than usual to step out into our gardens and enjoy the wonders of nature. There is so much design to appreciate in gardening. The composition and ever-changing visuals of the gardens themselves, as well as the thoughtful beauty that goes into all the tools of the trade. This month we're sharing some of the best tools that bring us endless joy doing one of our favorite outdoor activities.

Terrain Gardening Apron by Terrain

 A gardening apron has never looked so stylish as this waxed canvas and faux suede one. It keeps small tools handy for effortless meandering around your garden or property tending to the endless little jobs that make gardening such a delight! 

$44 by Shop Terrain

 Sophie Conran Ultimate Tool Set by Sophie Conran

English designer and gardener Sophie Conran created these tools for use in her own garden. Emphasizing comfort and efficiency, each finely crafted tool is engineered with features that simplify everyday gardening jobs. Crafted from beech wood and stainless steel with brass ferrules and polished steel heads, they're beautiful objects of useful art that will stand the test of time.

$299.95 at Williams Sonoma

 William Morris "Bower" Gardening Gloves by V &A

Whimsical and fun, colorful garden hoses bring a burst of energy to an early morning watering session. Pink, lavender, turquoise and even shimmery gold, these hoses make a statement that utility can be joyful as well!

$179.00 at Garden Glory

Haw's Copper Watering Can by John Haws

Haws watering cans have been popular in English gardens since 1886, the year that Londoner John Haws patented his unique design for a “watering pot” with perfect balance. This beautiful sculptural piece is crafted of gleaming copper and ideal for tending plants in the house, on the patio or out in the greenhouse.

 $134.95 at Williams Sonoma

This month we want to highlight our favorite Canadian artisans and makers from across the country. We love supporting talented artists and businesses that value not only quality and craftmanship but also the health and well-being of their customers and the planet as a whole. Below are a few of our current picks.

The Woodshop on Fogo Island, Newfoundland

3rd Story Workshop, Halifax, NS

Luminaire Authentik Montreal, QC

Atelier Vaste, Montreal, QC

Shayne Fox Hardware, Toronto, ON

Queenie X Ceramics, Toronto, ON

Nicholas Hamilton Holmes, Hamilton, ON

 Kenton Jeske, Edmonton, AB 

Kate Duncan, BC

We are always interested in discovering new artisans and makers that focus on sustainability, hand-building, and eco-friendly materials. Here are some of our favorite online sources for beautiful items for your home that are thoughtfully crafted and earth-friendly.

Hinoki Wood Side Table by Okawa Hinoki Workshop

Handcrafted from sustainably harvested hinoki cypress wood, this modern side table is a true conversation piece. The half moon design features subtle curves as well as straight lines at the base, bringing softness and a modern sensibility to any space. Made in a fair-trade workshop in Japan that has perfected the art of furniture making over four generations.

$395 from The Citizenry

Luxury Natural Throw Blankets by Avocado

These throw blankets from Avocado Green Mattress are woven or knit without harmful chemicals, in your choice of cashmere, merino wool, organic cotton or recycled cotton. The natural colors have no added dyes and all other colors are set with natural dyes and metallic salts to have the lowest environmental impact possible. The perfect example of luxurious sustainability. Available in 10 colors.

$254 from Avocado Green Mattress

Savannah Rug by Armadillo

Alternating high and low piles has a sense of movement redolent of the African grasslands in this stunning hand-knotted wool rug. Inviting to touch and wonderfully soft underfoot, it makes an unbridled statement with its enviable tactility.  Armadillo uses natural materials and sustainable processes when producing all of its products, designed to counteract today’s throwaway culture and stand the test of time.

$1,490-$4,380 from Armadillo

Kanamota Table Lamp by SIN

Designed and handmade by Brooklyn based artist Virginia Sin, this lamp is named after Mount Saint Helena which is Kanamota in Native American. Its composed of uplifted 2.4 million year old volcanic rocks and glazed in a speckled white, representing the snowfall the mountain receives in the winter. The light bulb is included and represents the position of the sun.

$275 from SIN

Rainbow Twill Napkins by MÉNAGE À QUATRE

No need for disposable napkins with this set of 4 incredibly soft and elegant no-waste dinner napkins. These super soft burlap linen napkins are accented with a refined and fun edge wrapping, making them easy to keep track of! Made from 100% reclaimed fabric to be both stylish and sustainable, these are perfect for every day use.

$59 from Itemerie

About this time every year, Spring Fever sets in, and we find ourselves looking at all the color, all the pattern, and all the spirited, joyful things! This season is no exception, having been hunkered down in our homes for several months now, we're craving 'newness' like never before! Here are some of this month's favorites....sure to cure a case of this year's Winter blues!

Petals Hand Embroidered Floral Napkin by CKD Home

These floral napkins are made to order and hand-embroidered on 100% linen. The irregular floral pattern adds a touch of biophilic design to your table as well as a nice pop of vibrant color! The napkins are made to order which means they take 3-4 weeks for delivery. Well worth the wait we think!

$25 CAD per napkin from Candice Kaye Design

Cylinder Stool  by Reinaldo Sanguino

Venezuelan born and New York City based artist Reinaldo Sanguino creates one of a kind original ceramics, using clay as both structure and canvas. His ceramic pieces are known for their freely worked surfaces, variety of rich colors and patterns, which are integral to his forms. Sanguino creates startling directional pieces that reference New York City’s ineffable energy.

$4,000 at The Future Perfect

Leather Drawer Floating Console by BDDW

This sweet side table or entry piece is perfect for squeezing into a small space. Available in a variety of colors it is handmade to order, crafted from leather and detailed with delicate brass drawer pulls. BDDW is a small American Company dedicated to timeless design, expert craftsmanship and forward-thinking manufacturing. All pieces are designed by the company's founder Tyler Hays, and fabricated in his Philadelphia-based studio by a team of talented craftspeople.

Price upon request at BDDW

Eden Wallpaper by Maison C

Inspired by nature, literature, fine art and fantasy, Maison C designs dreamlike worlds on paper.  All of the illustrations are hand-drawn and painted by the founder of the company and are printed in an ecologically friendly manner in the USA. We are smitten with this pattern, Eden, available in 5 colorways, both fresh and moody, it is an elegant botanical that will stand the test of time.

Price upon request at Temple Studio

Harry Sheep at Salt by The Caza Project

These delightful pieces are artful, joyful and reminiscent of the countryside in Spring! Made from Beech and pine and finished with genuine sheepskin, they add a touch of whimsy and warmth to any space. Handmade to order, 6-8 weeks for delivery.

$725 CAD at Salt

The colder, darker days have us dreaming of island travel and the relaxed, elegant style of the Caribbean. Local teak and mahogany with rattan and caning details, mixed with soft whites and botanical prints speak to the ease and beauty of the islands. We wish to celebrate the style that has us dreaming of our favorite escapes right about now!

Sovereign Poster Bed by Tommy Bahama Home

This statement bed combines classic British Colonial design, with a hint of campaign and a touch of safari. The rich Tamarind finish offers glimpses of gold and crimson through its aged finish. The woven cane headboard and turned posts bring additional layers of a sophisticated interpretation of island style. Available in 3 sizes

$3,179 from Layla Grayce

Organic Cotton Sheet Set by Under the Canopy

The perfect accompaniment to a dark wood statement bed would be soft white organic linens. This sheet set is not only affordable but organic, responsibly sourced, fair trade, and cruelty-free and certified by the FSC and Weltrack. They are made with vibrant, nontoxic dyes and lightweight Organic Cotton that blooms and softens beautifully with every wash. 

$59 from Under the Canopy

Botanical Prints by BarbaryPress on Etsy

This triptych of 3 botanicals has been adapted from rare scientific illustrations and enhanced with an antique finish. While the price does not include frames BarbaryPress has framing options to choose from that make for an easy process! There is nothing quite like the sight of the first palm you see when you arrive somewhere exotic which is why we love the memories of those moments that these prints evoke.

$58 set of 3 from BarbarryPress Etsy

Folding Chair by Eichholtz

Elements of Campaign, Safari, and British Colonial styles combine together in this updated teak and cane folding chair. The frame features vintage brass details and a beautiful back and seat of natural cane. It easily folds for effortless storage.

$930 from Interior Deluxe

Rattan Wall Sconce by Arteriors

The Padma Wall Light offers a simple, yet chic Bohemian inspired look, featuring a natural Rattan shade set into an Antique Brass finished arm can be positioned at various angles. 

$705 from Lightology

T'is the season! While this year the holidays certainly look different for most of us with different types of smaller gatherings, it feels as though it is more important than ever to embrace the holiday spirit and to find ways to connect and entertain ourselves and each other. For December, we've selected some of our favorite pieces to enhance and embrace small gatherings at home!

Root Table by Brother's Dressler, Toronto

Custom, price upon request at Brothers Dressler

These custom tables by Toronto studio Brother's Dressler are available in a variety of finishes form warm woods to wintery white. We love the root base; a beautiful, biophilic reference to nature.

 Adina Bar Cart by Crate and Barrel

The Adina Bar Cart makes our December list for it's elegant mix of materials. White concrete and antiqued brass make for an unexpected combination! We love a bar cart for this season in particular, as it provides both a surface and transport to 'zoom' laptops around the living room, for easy virtual connection with family and friends.

$599 + shipping at Crate and Barrel

 Red Fox Faux Fur Throw by JosFur

$240 CDN + shipping at Etsy

Sumptuous comfort! What more can we say? This faux fur might be the most gorgeous one we've ever seen! Rich color and a faux foxtail trim make it a delightful and comforting additional to the season.

Village Candlesticks by SChapados

$44.95 CDN + shipping at Etsy

These handmade wooden candlesticks will make the perfect village scene for minimalist holiday decorators! A series of these cascading down a dining table, or across a console will add warmth and visual interest with a nod to traditional holiday decor.

Margot Crystal Drinkware by Felicia Feferone

Prices vary at Fferone Design

The Margot Collection is Felicia Ferrone's maximalist line of glassware. A modern take on cut glass, the Margot Collection inverts tradition with intricate interior detail. Each piece is hand-formed without the use of molds by master glassblowers. We love the celebratory aesthetic of these stunningly sculptural pieces!

With the darker, colder months upon us and so much uncertainty continuing to be felt around the world, its a great time to turn our focus to hygge. This Danish concept of creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people is the perfect way to add comfort and connection to our everyday lives.  This month we're sharing our favorite ways of bringing hygge into our homes to embrace and enjoy the upcoming winter season.

Mr & Mrs Teapot by Sue Pryke

We are big tea drinkers and even small moments like pouring a hot cup of tea brings us joy especially when its dark outside at 4pm. This clay fired teapot by Sue Pryke balances the natural beauty of oak and ceramic to create a beautiful, pared back simple aesthetic. Functional and elegant, they are handmade in the UK and comes in 3 dreamy colors. We are also eyeing the coordinating porcelain mugs.

£125.00 from Sue Pryke

Sherpa Atticus Armchair by Anthropologie

This cozy yet stylish Sherpa chair would be the perfect spot to enjoy that pot of tea!  A masterful combination of Ash wood, cast iron, wrapped leather coils and textured Sherpa creates a comfortable and contemporary piece that will likely become a favorite spot to relax.

$998.00 from Anthropologie

Pantry Candlestick Set by Farmhouse Pottery

A simple way to create that warm, comforting, and relaxed atmosphere in your home is to start with candles.  We love grouping candles together to create a glow, a great way to embrace the darker days. This set from Farmhouse Pottery is sustainably harvested from New England Ash and with both rustic and modern elements they add an easy sophistication to any table or mantel.

$435 from Made Goods

Recycled Italian Cashmere Throw by Williams Sonoma Home

A cashmere throw is a definite must-have for colder months. You can feel even better about wrapping yourself up and getting warm and cozy with these since these are eco-friendly and crafted with reclaimed wool.  Meticulously woven in Italy by highly specialized artisans in a reversible plain weave, these throws are supremely soft and come in a variety of colors. 

$299 from Williams Sonoma Home

Indoor Ethanol Fireplace by Planika

If you are looking to add both warm and ambiance to your home this bio-ethanol fireplace from Planika is our recommendation. It creates the feel of a wood burning stove but uses Fanola Fuel which burns without emitting smoke, soot, or ash and is carbon neutral. The minimalist fireplace produces golden flames and distributes warmth via remote control, and includes a glass screen for safety.  Super easy to use and would be a great way to add hygge to a variety interiors.

Pricing starts at $3,058 from Planika

The studio is currently working on a few bathroom projects so we thought it would be a perfect time to share some pieces that may inspire your own bathroom reno or update. Changes can also be small! Swapping out items such as linens, accessories and lighting can make a big difference to how your bathroom feels and functions. We love these innovative, sustainable, and beautifully handcrafted products that make for a unique space!

Bolgheri Basin by Antonio Lupi

This freestanding pedestal sink aims to celebrate the beauty of Italian landscapes. The basin comes in a variety of colors that pay homage to Tuscany: Gran Cru, Oleo, and Ceruleo. Made from reconstituted natural cork bound with natural resin, the base supports the basin crafted from Cristalmood – an innovative resin material. The result is a sleek and sustainable fixture boasting texture and contrast.

Price Upon Request from Antonio Lupi

Terrazzo Mirror by Alberto Bellamoli

Italian industrial designer Alberto Bellamoli created a collection that brings together metal and glass to transform terrazzo into usable, everyday products. The designer handpicked all stones for the terrazzo base which is a composite material made of marble, pigment, and marble dust cemented together. It's a simple yet unique way of reinventing Italian traditions to create a beautiful and functional piece.

$159.95 from Beam BK and Danish Design Store, available in 3 colors

Lloyd Chair by Crump & Kwash

This is a studio favorite! By employing skilled local artisans to hand-craft their thoughtfully designed pieces, Crump and Kwash are committed to manufacturing “contemporary, heirloom furniture.” The scale and the design details of this chair are what make it so delightful! Available in a variety of wood, metal and leather finishes the chair can be tailored to your space. We love Lloyd’s artful, sculptural quality and can see it as both a side chair in the corner of a bathroom, or a one-off piece of sculptural furniture in any room of your home!

$1,350 from Crump & Kwash

Glass Soap Dispenser by Bloomingville

The combination of the gradient glass, classic honeycomb pattern and elegant gold pump would make a lovely addition to any vanity.  At an affordable price point, this refillable dispenser is a lovely eco-friendly solution in place of the plastic disposables and it will immediately add a touch of luxury to your space.

$22 from Royal Design

Tempo Flush Sconce by Atelier de Troupe

Handmade in Los Angeles, these sconces are available in satin or blackened brass backplate and handblown opal glass. The glowing orb set against the brass square, is a simple, minimal composition that creates modern impact and interest. The harmonious geometry and soft diffused light will gorgeously illuminate your vanity and will have you daydreaming of more mirror time.

$900 from Atelier de Troupe

This month we are focusing on our love of texture. Using a variety of textures within a room is one of our favorite ways to create richness and depth. A beautiful balance of textures brings out the unique personality of a space that might otherwise feel underwhelming and flat. Here are a few of our favorite pieces to elevate the spirit and vibrancy of any home.

Hoku Mirror by Nicole Hollis for McGuire Furniture

This stunning and daring mirror is made with woven and fringed lampakanay grass, a beautiful example of how designer Nicole Hollis mixes classic and innovative techniques and materials. Hoku meaning “night of the full moon” in Hawaiian is a nod to inspiration drawn from far away travels. Available in both natural and black.

$2,097 from McGuire Furniture 

Thumb Cup by Hanselmann Pottery

We get an incredible amount of joy from how comfortable these Thumb Cups are to hold while having our afternoon tea or evening cocktail. Hand thrown and hand glazed by Hanselmann pottery in New Mexico, their stoneware connects craftmanship, tradition, and design. Each cup holds approximately 12 ounces

$30 each from Hanselmann Pottery

Zigzag Pouf by Domkapa

Structure and curves come together to create the unique and beautiful shape of this zigzag pouf. With comfort as a first priority, Portugal based Domkapa melds classic elements with modern influences to create simple yet standout pieces. A great choice to use as an additional layer of texture and personality to your space. Shown in velvet, made to order.

$325 - $545 from Domkapa

Black and White Pillow by Tisserand Dakar

One of our personal favorite brands is Tisserand Dakar from West Africa. Carefully crafted patterns are beautifully hand woven to produce luxurious home decor. This black and white branch-art bogolan accent pillow and bed runner are no exception. The pillow is currently available for purchase through our sister company Studio Marlowe.  

$175 CDN via Studio Marlowe  contact: venus@studiomarlowe.ca for details

Brooks Table Lamp by J. Randall Powers for Visual Comfort

The modern cylindrical crystal base and wide-angled shade of this table lamp is minimal yet contemporary. We love the contrast of materials between the crystal and the detailed hardware. It provides ample diffused light to the surrounding space and is a perfect addition to a variety of settings.

$569 available at Circa Lighting and McGee & Co

Welcome to the Marlowe RoomxRoom blog! 

Each month we'll feature some of our favorite objects, furniture, and fixtures from all around the world, as we aim to help you discover your own design identity! 

This month's collection features some of our favorite artisanal pieces from projects past and present. We prefer to work with local designers and makers every chance we get. We love the quality and luxury of hand-made pieces and we celebrate the ingenuity of the people who create them.

Arcade Table by Crump and Kwash, Baltimore City, MD

We love this sculptural multi-purpose cast concrete beauty by one of our favorite U.S.-based studios!  Suitable for both interior and exterior applications, it comes in several delightful colors and works as both a table, and extra seating!  

$1650 + shipping at Crump & Kwash

Fornace Brioni Terra Cotta Wall Tile by Cle Tile, San Fransisco, CA

Our favorite artisanal tile studio recently launched a collection of traditional terracotta and glazed ceramics in collaboration with architect Cristina Celestino. This special collection of dimensional geometric wall and floor tiles are created by hand in Gonzaga, Lombardy, Italy, the small town where terracotta originally hails from! The collections "delve into themes of classical architecture with nods to renaissance grottos and Italian gardens, and a subtle playfulness enhanced by clean modern forms."

$35.00 per square foot at Cle Tile

Highwire Pendant by Anony Studio Toronto, Canada

Anony Studio made a splash on the international design scene with this ceiling fixture that was debuted at the Toronto Interior Design Show. Designers from all over were gushing over its elegant simplicity and stunning diffuse light. We used this pendant, a single drop in a powder room as the piece de resistance and it still amazes us how it single-handedly carries the room's design to the next level!

Price upon request at Anony Studio

Primitive Vases by Leanne Ford for Crate and Barrel

We love when retailers collaborate with artisans to create approachable, affordable and design-savvy pieces for our clients! This collection by designer Leanne Ford is no exception! "While these pieces are refined and polished, they're not meant to be or feel too perfect," she says. We love the nod to Japanese ceramics and the wabi-sabi tradition!

$30- $50 per piece at Crate & Barrel