Mettro Source
Sean O’Neail and Myriam Velasquez opened their uptown boutique showroom in 2003 after visiting Spain, where an emotional connection to a tile and space matters just as much as aesthetic appeal. Hand-selected tiles have unique textures – New World looks and Old World qualities. Offerings range from ceramics resembling hand-combed limestone and end-grain porcelains that look like weathered wood to mother-of-pearl stunners that add a splash of bling. Having seen the devastating impact of quarrying, the owners have opted to carry more sustainable porcelain but will still source stone tile if a job calls for it. The best part? You get to sip an espresso while perusing samples.
SHOP HERE FOR: intimate showroom expertise and unique, high-quality Spanish and Italian tiles for flooring, wallcoverings, counters and fireplace surrounds. The laser-printed Sunset Boulevard mosaic ($85/sq. ft.) With tiles referencing pop culture – think Warhol’s Campbell Soup cans – is a sure showstopper. Each was individually hand-meshed in a small factory outside of Valencia.
BEST BET: Inalco’s stunning large-format (32" x 32") porcelain 80.4 tile ($21/sq. ft.). Thin and elegant, its 3D surface allows for minimal grouting and less upkeep. O’Neail calls it the Barcelona chair of tile. BY LEAH WONG
PHOTOS BY NAOMI FINLAY
Mettro Source
14 Raitherm Rd (Map It)
416 913 1722
MON-WED 9-5, THU 9-8, FRI 9-5, SAT 10-4
