By Joanna Lee, Modern Mix Vancouver writer
Modern furniture emporium, West Elm (2947 Granville Street), opened its second Canadian location in Vancouver’s prestigious South Granville area on September 13th. Located at West 14th and Granville, West Elm is adjacent to its sister stores, Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and Pottery Barn Kids. The home furnishings retailer offers a diverse mix of and upscale home furniture, decor, and accessories designed to suit small, urban spaces. One could see an array of compact dining sets, sofas, easy chairs, tables as well as a colourful mix of organic bedding, linen, patterned cushions and throws. The Vancouver store also carries art and accessories created by local artisans through its partnership with Etsy.
From silver-rimmed glassware and hand-painted dishware to stylish trinkets and chic accessories, the Brooklyn-based store is also known for carrying pieces that are influenced by global designs and eco-friendly styles that are affordable and appealing to those looking to spice up their everyday at-home look. “West Elm Green” is the line featuring environmentally-friendly products and similar to its other locations, the Granville location has been designed with green materials using energy-saving lighting and reclaimed fixtures. Their commitment to being eco-friendly is also evident as the Vancouver store is also keeping inventory on-site so that customers can purchase products quickly to eliminate unnecessary travel.
On the eve of its grand opening, the media had the chance to view west elm’s Fall collection which includes an assortment of colourful handmade crafts, textiles, and other items influenced and inspired by South Africa. Also unveiled was West Elm’s new Mix and Match Dining collection which features several options for table tops and bases to allow for shoppers to customize and create their own dining pieces.
The store was literally jam-packed as shoppers scooped up an array of home furnishings, with partial proceeds of sales going to local organization, Arts Umbrella. The enthusiasm and excitement for the opening was definitely displayed with all the energy and excitement amongst the crowd. Although items are already highly affordable, one will be delighted to find that many items are already marked down and ready to call your home, their new home.
For other modern furniture store postings on Modern Mix Vancouver, read up on Ikea in Richmond and CB2 on Robson Street.
