Shop Here: Torp Inc.

Editor’s note: This feature story was published in spring 2014. For up-to-date info, refer to our Torp Inc. store listing.

This massive showroom is chock full of mid-mod eye candy. The bright open concept space – a credit to upstairs neighbour Taylor Smyth Architects – is dedicated to Scandinavian design pioneers. Torp’s expansive inventory of everything for the home – accessories, furniture, even windows and doors – comes courtesy of owner Arne Nordtorp. And it’s unlikely you’ll find someone with more expertise. As Denmark’s honorary consul general, Nordtorp led the AGO’s 2008 SuperDanish interior design project, which asked Frank Gehry to populate his renovated space with select furniture and lighting from 11 Danish companies.

Seven brands are offered here, including Muuto’s colourful bowls and vases, along with its Mondrian-inspired shelving system; and Georg Jensen’s stainless steel and silver cutlery, candle holders and pitchers, which shimmer in glass display cases. The shop’s diversity and craftsmanship is further reflected by sculptural oak and ash PP Møbler chairs and tables, designed primarily by Hans Wegner; and elegant and exceptionally insulated custom doors and windows from Pro Tec – its latest addition.

SHOP HERE FOR: Mid-century and contemporary heirloom-quality furniture, of which PP Møbler is a leader. Its collection of seamless chairs, tables and benches, featuring bentwood and cord seats, is crowned by the iconic Teddy Bear chair ($18,095), whose arms and upholstered frame were created for ultimate comfort.

BEST BET: Muuto’s irresistibly quirky accessories. The Dots wall hangers, oversized polka dots that come in multiple colours and sizes ($169/5 pcs), is a delightful solution for the foyer. The glass-blown Same Same But Different tumblers ($55/3 pcs) hold 300 millilitres, but because of their varying shapes, some appear to hold more than others – and will surely get your guests talking.