Mud Australia lands in T.O.
Australian ceramics brand Mud Australia brings its refined craftsmanship and minimalist design to Canada with a new retail showcase at Hopson Grace in Toronto.
“Toronto has this lovely balance of creativity and calm,” says founder Shelley Simpson. “People here have an authentic appreciation for design that feels lived in. Hopson Grace shares our approach, and it seemed like the perfect time to bring Mud to Canada in a meaningful way.”
Simpson sees an easy kinship between Australian and Canadian design, which are rooted in natural materials, honesty and ease. “Both places value design that feels lived with rather than styled. That quiet connection between beauty and purpose really resonates with me.”
With small-batch production and enduring forms, sustainability remains at the heart of Mud’s philosophy. “We’ve always told people to buy once and buy well,” says Simpson. “When you live with something daily, it becomes part of your story.”
As for the product in Canadian homes? “I can’t wait to see how people make Mud their own. I hope they feel the care and calm in every piece, that quiet bond between the maker, the object and the moment it’s used.” hopsongrace.com
Petit products
Meet Petit Endy, the brand’s new kids’ collection that pairs playful charm with refined design. The line features pint-sized mattresses, sofas, chairs and decor crafted with the same luxe fabrics and soft curves as its grown-up counterparts. Designed for nurseries, playrooms and reading nooks, Petit Endy proves that great design can start young. endy.ca
Flower power
When winter dulls the landscape, bringing flowers indoors becomes a quiet act of joy. “Fresh florals are an instant mood boost,” says Corrie Pollock Aronowicz, product developer at Tonic Blooms. “Studies show flowers reduce stress and spark happiness. You really feel that lift when the world outside is cold and grey.”
She recommends winter arrangements that mix lush layers and woodland textures. “Amaryllis always make a statement, but I love pairing winter greens like cedar or fir with soft blooms such as roses, chrysanthemums and even carnations. Yes, carnations are cool again!”
Her final tip? Treat blooms like skincare: Change the water daily, trim stems, mist if the air is dry and keep arrangements away from heat sources. “A little care goes a long way,” she says. “They’ll reward you with beauty that brightens even the darkest day.” tonicblooms.com
Montauk moment
Luxury furniture house Montauk Sofa has opened its flagship Toronto showroom at 8 Britain Street in the city’s design district. Spanning 8,000 sq. ft. across four levels, the space – complete with a rooftop terrace – redefines the showroom experience. Designed with Joseph Miller of Cohlmeyer Architecture, the 1920s heritage building has been reimagined as a modern, light-filled residence.
“Our goal was to create a space so inviting that guests never want to leave,” says founder Tim Zyto. With every piece crafted in Montreal, Montauk continues to set the bar for effortless comfort and timeless form. montauksofa.com
Painted
The paint world is buzzing with fresh inspiration for 2026
Zinsser, the brand behind perfect primers for more than 175 years, is celebrating the unsung hero of every colour story: Pure white. Before any bold hue shines, it all begins with one flawless base coat.
Sico Paint offers its own distinctly Canadian pick: Boreal Forest (6167-83), a deep green inspired by the country’s expansive woodlands. A celebration of national pride and a renewed connection to nature.
Dulux Paints introduces its first-ever Canadian colour of the year, Pine Forest (DLX 1134-7). “It’s a grounding evergreen tone, rooted in optimism and strength,” says Mitsu Dhawan, marketing director for Dulux.
Sherwin-Williams has named Universal Khaki (SW 6150) its 2026 colour of the year. It’s a warm, adaptable neutral that works anywhere.
Benjamin Moore’s Eco Spec line champions sustainability with zero VOCs, low odour and exceptional performance. Ideal for nurseries, bedrooms and wellness spaces.
Wish list
Whether gifting or indulging, these lifestyle finds bring a little luxury home
- Luxe the smart kettle in damson blue. $300. linenchest.com
- Enamel cookware. $160. homesense.ca
- Forage bookend set. $49. urbanbarn.com
- Carry-On in terrazzo. $299. monos.ca
- 5 Appetizer plates in winter garden. $40 (set of four). indigo.ca
- Volt 2 electric indoor pizza oven. $949. ooni.com
- Book club stemless wine glasses. $30 (set of four). indigo.ca
- Personalized linen cocktail napkins by House of Gleason. $69 (set of four). etsy.ca
- Wooden wick candle in moonrise by Milk Jar Candle Co. $45. well.ca
- Close to you lounge chair. $1,750. sundays-company.ca