Top 5 Must-Sees: Balloon Flowers & Interactive Wall Sconces: Discover More in Magazine-Land!

Introducing Canada’s Premier Balloon Florist: Ballooms

Imagine a bouquet that doesn’t wilt—a vibrant collection of balloon flowers crafted from 100% natural, biodegradable latex. This inventive concept comes from Ballooms, a Toronto-based studio that transcends traditional balloon art. In a recent conversation with Dylan Kwacz, the founder who affectionately refers to himself as the “balloon boy,” we explored the possibilities of expanding the balloon artistry landscape. Ideas floated around included more elaborate installations and potential collaborations with notable brands such as Lululemon, PowerPlant TO, and Aritzia—a few ambitions already realized by Ballooms. Clearly, this venture is on the rise.

Revolutionary Floral Accessories: Ste. Marg Scot

Could brooches become a fashion staple? While I’m no Carrie Bradshaw, Ste. Marg Scot’s oversized floral brooches certainly spark the imagination. This Canadian wool goods brand, recognized as the first gender-inclusive outerwear company using sustainable materials, has crafted a line of floral brooches that blend classic charm with contemporary style. Their entire collection, locally produced and made of 100% wool, is a fixture at high-profile design events like IDS Toronto and the One of a Kind Show. Featured here is the Peony Brooch in a delightful sky blue.

From the First to the Latest: A Mini Magazine Conference

All writers, designers, and magazine enthusiasts in Toronto, take note! Hosted by Issues Magazine Shop, this one-day event dives deep into the magazine industry’s current landscape through discussions with experts, indie publishers, and magazine founders. The previous conference in October was a hit, filled with engaging dialogues and an abundance of reading material. Remember to mark your calendars for the next gathering on March 22nd and celebrate the enduring power of printed media!

Interactive Lighting Innovation: Touch Point Sconce

Unveiled at DesignTO, the Touch Point Sconce by Toronto’s own Mark Khoury and Devansh Shah introduces a playful, interactive element to home lighting. This design operates on a unique mechanism where connecting a central disc to a pendant activates the light, which then dims as the pendant is pulled away, mimicking the dynamics of human touch, such as a hug or a handshake. Each sconce is custom-made, embodying a blend of artistic design and emotional resonance, making it a noteworthy addition to any living space.

Footwear Extravaganza: Fluevog

A discussion on exceptional design wouldn’t be complete without mentioning my favorite footwear from one of Canada’s leading designers, John Fluevog. His Spring/Summer 2025 collection includes the eye-catching Super Provog Inder Thick-Laced Sneakers, adorned with cheetah print and bold red and black laces—perfect for those who love to stand out. Fluevog has been a staple in Canadian and international fashion scenes since the 1970s, known for his vibrant and inventive designs. His home in Vancouver, designed by MA+HG Architects, reflects his creative ethos with its bright, angular architecture and stylish interior.