Bloghunter: Cambie Design II

In my previous post I shared with you what I was up to last summer, so this week I want to tell you about what I am doing this summer. As you read in my last post, my time in Newfoundland has played a critical role in building Cambie Design. Long before Cambie was even an idea, my time spent in another important place sparked my interest and developed my love for art and design. Having a mother from South America has given me the fortune of living in and travelling extensively around Peru since I was only months old. Most of my mother’s side of the family still live in Lima, of which many have a creative background or career. I come from a family of interior designers, architects, sculptors, make-up artists, painters, and good old-fashioned art lovers. Essentially, I have grown up spending time in homes and studios that could double as art galleries, or make the cover of your favourite design magazine. This exposure has played a tremendous role in my appreciation for being surrounded by beauty.

The elements often used in interior design in Peru have been of great influence to me. Concrete is a common material used in the construction of buildings and is often left exposed. Walls are typically painted white and floors are either concrete or hardwood making the structural elements very raw and natural. I find this to be the perfect canvas to display one’s treasured finds. Peruvian textiles are rich and colourful and are essential items in Peruvian décor, contrasting beautifully against the neutral backdrops. I love the philosophy of filling your home with items that are unique to you, filled with character and have a great story to tell. And that is exactly what I am doing this summer.

Alongside many talented designers, I am a part of an amazing summer marketplace called The Spot on Queen. Located in downtown Toronto, The Spot takes place every weekend this summer, rotating ten local designers and their work weekly. You will find a range of handmade clothing, jewelry, housewares, artwork, edibles and vintage goods. Cambie Design is contributing to The Spot on Queen on the following weekends:
July 20th-22nd / August 10th-12th / August 17th-19th

I am selling the vintage furniture and accessories that I handpicked in Newfoundland last summer and brought back with me to Toronto. I remember every single person that I purchased these things from and the experience that is unique to each piece of furniture. Every item that is for sale has a story that I love sharing and I hope each new owner holds the same enthusiasm.

I am also selling beautifully crafted alpaca wool blankets from Peru. I was in Lima last year when I met a talented artisan at a local market and fell absolutely in love with his textiles. I am very familiar with alpaca wool and its thermal qualities, but I have never come across throws so rich in colour and versatile in patterns. They are a perfect accent to any room – an inviting throw for the end of your bed or to snuggle up with on your sofa with a favourite book.

I consider myself a curator of sorts, and I am so thrilled to be offering the beautiful and interesting items I have collected throughout my travels to Torontonians. In a city of cookie cutter condos, I am confident that these items will set you apart and spark conversation in your home. I will also give you a great story to tell! You have got to come by The Spot and say hello! All of the details about the market are explained in the last image.

- Camille