In the heart of Toronto’s bustling Ossington Street, a new haven has emerged for travelers and design enthusiasts alike. The Monos store, designed by the acclaimed Canadian studio Ste Marie, offers a dreamlike interior that transports visitors to a serene, spa-like atmosphere.
Drawing inspiration from the Japanese concept of “mono no aware,” which celebrates fleeting moments of beauty, Ste Marie has curated a space that aims to evoke awe, discovery, and the joy of travel. The studio’s vision is to create a multi-sensory experience that connects guests to the essence of wanderlust and adventure.
As you step into the store, you are greeted by an olive tree standing proudly in front of a vertical lightbox, casting a warm glow over the space. The minimalist design of the store, characterized by serene beige tones and stone display shelves, is reminiscent of the welcoming ambiance found in Portuguese bed and breakfasts known as “pousadas.”
One of the central features of the store is a Turkish rainbow onyx counter, adorned with veins of blue-grey and orange, that serves as a focal point for the space. A water feature flows from the countertop, cascading into a lower basin, creating a harmonious connection between nature and humanity. Waxed plaster walls and monoliths of split-faced cottonwood limestone frame the central installation, adding a touch of earthy elegance to the interior.
The beige color scheme, extending from the ceiling to the flooring and across the wall displays and lighting elements, creates a sense of continuity and tranquility throughout the space. Cove lighting illuminates the stone shelves where the luggage products are elegantly presented, inviting guests to explore the curated collection of accessories for the mindful traveler.
Hidden behind taupe curtains, the back-of-house areas maintain a sense of mystery, while full-length mirrors strategically placed in the corners give the illusion of a larger space. The thoughtful design elements in the store aim to create an immersive experience that transcends mere retail shopping, inviting visitors to embark on a visual and tactile journey through the art of design and hospitality.
Ste Marie’s expertise in crafting unique and engaging interiors shines through in the Monos store, adding another feather to their cap of successful projects. With a portfolio that includes a diverse range of hospitality and retail spaces, the studio continues to push the boundaries of design and creativity in the Canadian landscape.
In a world where travel and exploration are more than just activities but an integral part of our identity, spaces like the Monos store offer a glimpse into the transformative power of design. As we navigate through the store, surrounded by the gentle surrealism and cultural influences that inspired its creation, we are reminded of the beauty that lies in the fleeting moments of life and the joy that comes with embarking on new adventures.
So next time you find yourself strolling down Ossington Street, take a moment to step into the Monos store and immerse yourself in its dreamlike interior. Who knows, you might just uncover a piece of your own travel story waiting to be told amidst the olive trees and rainbow onyx surfaces.
