Ethel-20th Century Living

Ethel needs a new home....

2012-01-27T12:48:00.003-05:00

For the past few weeks, we’ve been holding off on buying any new inventory for the shop. Our customers keep asking “when are you getting new stuff in” and we’ve been telling them that we do this every January, to help clear out old energy and to encourage new.

This year it’s different. Ethel is looking for a new home and we’re not buying any new inventory as we don’t want to have to move it.

We love Leslieville and would love to stay here, in our cozy space at 1091 Queen St. East, where the store has been located for the past 14+ years. However, our new landlord has other plans for the building so we find ourselves surfing MLS for retail space for lease, and we have our friends, family and trusty real estate agent Nancy Wilson of Remax, http://www.nancywilsonteam.com/, helping us search for Ethel's possible new home.

We’re hoping to stay in the east end, as this is where our customers know to find us, but we could be looking at setting up shop in a totally new neighborhood. We keep hearing interesting things about St. Clair West, and even Gerrard and Jones has it's potential. We'll keep you all posted and make sure everyone knows where we're headed.

Ethel's motto is “Life is too short for Beige”, which means we’re open to possibilities and new adventures. Wish us luck on this next step on our journey. (and if you know of any great retail space in a busy neighborhood, let us know!)

See you at the store (wherever that may be!)

Lollipop, lollipop. oooh, lolly lollipop!

2012-01-15T13:51:00.004-05:00

We just got in this gorgeous set of 6 dining chairs and we are in love!

They are so reminiscent of the Robin Bush Lollipop seating (see above), but instead of a metal tandem base, these beauties are solid wood and were made in Milverton, Ontario by the Honderich Furniture Company. They've been reupholstered in maroon leather and are priced at $900 for the set of six.

Lollipop Lollipop, oooh lolly lollipop!

See you at the store!

Winter is finally here!

2012-01-13T14:18:00.012-05:00

We got our first serious snowfall of the season today and we’re so happy that winter is finally here. The snow makes us want to curl up in a comfortable chair by the fire, drinking hot chocolate (or hot toddies!) and dream of tropical vacations, or even building a snowman.

Why don’t we try this chair for curling up in?

Gorgeous refinished teak chair with new cushions in the classic Eames Circles pattern.

Chair is $895

UPDATE: Chair has sold!

How about this classic Canadian Beauceware mug for hot chocolate?

Mug is $8.

Oh, you have someone to share your hot chocolate with? How about a couple of these vintage yellow ware barrel mugs? Or would these work better for hot toddies?

Barrel mugs are $8 each or all three for $20.

If you really need to go out into the cold, why not do it in style? Our vintage clothing gal Shannon has a few fur coats here at the store. No need to feel guilty wearing these furs...they’re vintage!

Fur coats are $200 each. More available at the shop.

If fur isn’t your style, try one of these vintage knit toques or berets?

Knit hats are $10 each.

Don’t forget to keep your feet warm!

(my boots, not for sale!)

See you at the store!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T16:54:00.003-05:00

It's January, and that means cleaning up and cleaning out the store. After closing for a few days to spend time with our friends and family, we came back with lots of energy and ideas for 2012.

We spent the last couple of days packing up the remnants of the vintage holiday merchandise and taking down the tree, and now we're focussing on remerchandising the store. So if you feel like helping out, come say "hi" and buy something, so we don't have to pack it up or move it!

Happy New Years from everyone here at Ethel!

Boxing up Christmas

2011-12-27T12:39:00.004-05:00

It's the day after Boxing day, and that means it's time to clear out Christmas. We're not at all insinuating that you take down your twinkle lights, dismantle your tree and stow away your decorations till next year (that's done on New Years Day in our house, accompanied by a larger than normal hangover and larger than normal cups of coffee). Instead, it means Ethel is putting all Christmas decorations (vintage and new) on sale, so WE don't have to box them up and stow them away till next year. So if you didn't pick up any Whigby ornaments and cards, or vintage baubles and satin lustres, now's your chance. All Christmas merchandise is 50% off, so stock up for next year!

See you at the store!

Holiday Ethel

2011-12-24T14:35:00.004-05:00

Well, it's Christmas Eve and we're busy helping all those last minute shoppers find vintage goodies for their loved ones. Whether it's a set of vintage cocktail glasses, handpainted ornaments (like the ones your Grandparents had!) or a pair of groovy 70's lucite candlesticks, giving vintage means you've put thought and love into your gift and we know the receivers will appreciate it!

We'll be closing early today so we can go home to enjoy some holiday cheer while we wrap our last minute gifts. We'll be closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day and back in the shop on Tuesday December 27th. Next week, we'll be open from the 27th to the 30th and closed on New Years Eve, New Years Day and January 2nd.

We wish you and your family lots of love, wonder and joy this Christmas and and much health and prosperity in 2012!

MERRY CHRISTMAS from your friends at Ethel!

Canadian Pickers in the house!

2011-12-20T13:39:00.005-05:00

We got a phonecall from History Television last week, asking if we were interested in having the Canadian Pickers, Scott Cozens (left) & Sheldon Smithens (right), come by on Monday to film an interview with Rogers Television in our store. Of course we were interested! We love this show as these two are not only funny but they really get into the history of their picks and do a lot to educate people about the vintage and antique marketplace. It's all about getting your hands dirty and putting in loooong hours if you really want to find the good stuff, something we know too well here at the shop!

Anyway, they were here this past Monday morning and were not only charming but also very interested in how I got into this game, and we swapped a few stories about some of the great stuff we've found over the years (and since have sold.)

The new season debuts January 9th at 10pm, on History Television.

http://www.canadianpickers.com/

New Modernism Magazine is here!

2011-12-13T13:52:00.002-05:00

We just got the Winter 2011-2012 issue of Modernism Magazine in, just in time for Christmas!

Featuring a cover story on a funky "Lautner-esque" concrete shell house in Japan, there's also lots of great features inside, including a collectors guide to Charley Harper art, a profile of a Cliff May house, and a story on the British textile company, Edinburgh Weavers. Also in there are their regular listings of upcoming art and design shows. We also have a few Fall 2011 issues left so get them before they're all gone.

See you at the store!

Furniture under the tree

2011-12-07T16:15:00.011-05:00

We try not to buy too much furniture going into the Christmas season as we find most people aren't going to put a danish teak dining table under the tree for their sweetie, but sometimes we just can't resist.

We just got in a near mint condition bedroom set in solid walnut. The headboard & matching footboard is a double (and comes complete with rails), and would be perfect for a smaller room.

Bedframe is priced at $195.

The dresser is 6 1/2 feet long and is in pristine condition.

Dresser is $495

UPDATE: Dresser has sold!

UPDATE: Dresser is back in store

(it wouldn't fit up the stairs in the home of the person who bought it!)

UPDATE: Dresser has sold (again) and DID fit up the stairs of it's new home so it's not coming back this time!

There are two matching nightstands (not shown) with some sun fading on the top surface, but otherwise in great shape. They're priced at $85 each or $150 for the pair.

UPDATE: nightstands have sold!

The matching desk is perfect for a small space. You can see the mirror for over the dresser on the right side of the desk. It weighs a ton (solid wood backing!) so we thought it would be safer not to hang it in the store.

Desk is $350, desk chair is $75. Mirror for dresser is $95.

UPDATE: Mirror has sold!

If you've got room for all 7 pieces (bedframe, large dresser, mirror, 2 night stands, and desk & desk chair), we'll sell it all for $1200.

We also got in this darling little vintage 50's chair that was re-upholstered in the 80's in this unfortunate fabric.
We would love to reinvent it with the help of Princess Perfect, but we'll sell it "As-Is" for $75.

Lastly, we got in this late 60's kitchen dinette set.
We normally don't go for the kitschy kitchen chrome dinettes, but we thought there was something elegant about this one, with the black tapered legs, brass details and highbacked chairs. Right now the table has the leaves out so it has a small round top, but with the leaves in, it sits 6. We're just waiting for the rest of the chairs to come in tomorrow.

Dinette set w/ 6 chair is $195.

UPDATE: Dinette has sold!

So if you love furniture as much as we do, and have room under your tree for a teak dresser or two, come by and check it all out.

See you at the store!

New Atomic Ranch is here!

2011-12-01T15:22:00.003-05:00

We just got the Winter 2011 issue of Atomic Ranch in, and as usual, it's chock full 0' mid-century goodness! We're even quoted on page 68, in their Ranch Dressing section. We help a reader from Vancouver identify what turns out to be an Adrian Pearsall chair.

Other features include a story on Tucson's Indian Ridge neighborhood being named to the National Register of Historic Places (lets see if we can do the same for Don Mills here in Toronto!), and a profile of Hans Wegner, the designer of the Wishbone chair and PapaBear chair.

UPDATE: This issue is all sold out!

So come by the shop and pick up your copy. We also have a few copies left of the fall Modernism Issue!

See you at the store!

Kitschy Christmas!

2011-11-27T14:14:00.017-05:00

We're still recovering from Holiday Wanderlust, and while all the cookies and cider were all gone by 9pm, the crowds stayed much later! The night was a total success and we were so happy to see so many people out supporting small businesses and sharing our Christmas cheer!

Cookies before the crowds came...they were all gone by 9pm!

We still have lots of vintage ornaments and Whigby ornaments left too, but if you're looking for something more kitschy, Ethel's your gal!

How about this vintage ceramic lamp with the original chartreuse 2 tiered fiberglass shade? Perfect for a rockabilly lounge, or film noir bedroom!

Lamp is $125

If you're going to a lot of holiday cocktail parties, then what about a set of vintage cocktail glasses for the hostess?

Set of 6 Pop Art Stars & Stripes - $30

Set of 6 Frosted highballs with red, white & blue straws, cherries and ice cube pattern - $30

UPDATE: Both sets of cocktail glasses have sold!

Or how about this decanter & shotglass set? Who said basketweave had to be granny?

Decanter set - $24

UPDATE: Decanter set has sold!

If you're the one throwing the cocktail party, then you need this vintage drinking game to get your guests in the holiday spirit!

Vintage "Bottoms Up" drinking game - $20

(Just make sure your guests are OK to drive after playing!)

For the gals (or guys) at the office, how about this pair of vintage 60's Pop Art coffee mugs from Japan, in electric green & blue? Their morning cup of coffee will never be so cheery!

Crazy Daisy mugs - $6 each.

If you're buying for a workaholic, then how about a vintage desk caddy? These cork desk organizers are very 70's executive. All you need is some thumbtacks, a wide tie and polyester suit!

Desk caddies - prices vary

UPDATE: desk caddies have both sold!

If you're shopping for a bookworm, how about a stack of vintage pulp novels? So trashy!

Pulp novels - $4 each or 3 for $10

If all else fails, you can stick with classic red and green.

Art glass, decanters and goblets - prices vary

So remember, kitsch is always good for Christmas!

See you at the store!

Keeping a green Christmas...

2011-11-20T12:31:00.006-05:00

I received the email below from a very dear friend this morning and it really made me think why I am so proud to be an interior designer and vintage store owner.

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Canadians with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of Canadian labor. This year will be different. This year Canadians will give the gift of genuine concern for other Canadians. There is no longer an excuse ......that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by Canadian hands. Yes there is!
It's time to think outside the box. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?
Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local Canadian hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, Canadian owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down their credit cards on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Canadians with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the Canadian working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining Canadian pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging Canadian small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Canadians, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine. THIS is the new Canadian Christmas. Spread the Christmas cheer here....

Buying vintage is a great idea in so many ways not the least of which is that your gift will have virtually no carbon footprint, will be unique and will tell the world you have great taste!

If your friends and family aren't comfortable living with vintage (and really, haven't we all worn handmedowns at least once in our lives?) then maybe they'd like some interior design help. We offer gift certificates for our design services as well as our online only Take-Out Box service. Check out our sister site to see how you can give good design for Christmas!

http://etheldesign.com/design/Home.aspx

Or, come by the shop and talk to us in person. We love talking about design and are always happy to meet new customers and clients.

See you at the store!

Red and Green never go out of style!

2011-11-18T17:36:00.005-05:00

We're almost ready for Holiday Wanderlust here at the store. We set up the Christmas window, and this year we decided to go a little more oldschool. Last year we did "I'm dreaming of a Pink Christmas" and this years theme is "I'm dreaming of Christmas past..."

We filled the window with vintage toys and games, and a gorgeous teak lounge chair, newly reupholstered in the Eames Circle fabric.

Teak lounge chair is $895

Games and toys - prices vary

The vintage aluminum tree is an Ethel classic, but instead of going mod like we did last year, we went traditional with red and green balls (and the odd turquoise one...Ethel's favourite colour).

We also set up our Ethel Design window to promote our interior design business.

Hanging those letters so they hang evenly was a challenge!

It is getting cold out there, and what's the best remedy for cold weather? A tiki drink to remind you of summer (or in anticipation of a tropical getaway planned for February or March?)

We just got in a whole box of vintage tiki mugs for all you tikiphiles out there.

Tiki mugs are $15 each.

See you at the store!

Are those Jingle Bells I hear?

2011-11-16T16:47:00.006-05:00

Leslieville's Holiday Wanderlust, the annual kick-off to the Christmas season is almost a week away and we're busy getting the store ready for the festivities.

We've been getting out all the vintage Christmas ornaments and carefully unpacking them.

Oooooh...sparkly....

Vintage ornaments - prices vary

We also just got in our Whigby ornaments and boxed card sets.

They've added a Mountie, a Canada Goose, a Stubby, and a Polar Bear to the collection this year so come by and check them out.

Ornaments $16 each.

Boxed Cards $15 each.

We'll be putting in the Christmas window before the weekend but we promise to not start playing Christmas music until the night of the party!

So come by on the evening of November 24th and share some Holiday cheer. Who knows, maybe even Ethel herself will make an appearance!

See you at the store!

Out with the old.....

2011-11-05T16:11:00.003-04:00

It's time to get the store ready for the holidays; and to make room for all of the lovely vintage goodies we have lined up for you, we need to find homes for some of our favourite pieces.

This re-upholstered Throne chair was the highlight of our "I'm dreaming of a Pink Christmas" holiday window last year. This chair is fit for a princess, or even Prince (the purple one!).

Originally priced at $2400, it's now on sale for $1800. Won't you give this mod, majestic, chair a home?

Check out this Italian chrome lounge chair and matching ottoman.

The chrome frame is oh-so-70's and the original navy blue corduroy upholstery is in great shape.

Originally priced at $1495, it's now on sale for $900.

So if you need something fabulous to sit on, come by and check them out!

See you at the store!

Ethel's been busy!

2011-11-03T10:55:00.005-04:00

Things have been crazy busy around the store lately. We were at the International Homeshow for four days last week, promoting our new interior design business, Ethel Design. You may have even caught us on Breakfast Television a week ago! If not, here's the link:

http://video.citytv.com/video/detail/1244166076001.000000/thursday-7am8am/

(We're on at the very end of this clip)

I also was on Sun News, talking about our design menu. Click here to see me in too much TV makeup!

http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/video/designing-your-home/1247767733001

Anyway, we're back in the store now and getting ready for the holidays, and the annual Leslieville Holiday Wanderlust party! We're officially launching Ethel Design that night, so come by the store for some cider, homemade cookies, and of course, holiday cheer!

See you at the store!

Ethel Design is famous!

2011-10-20T13:18:00.005-04:00

Our design business made it into our local Metro paper this morning!

Yup, that's us. Jordana Leventhal on the left and me, Shauntelle LeBlanc, on the right.

We'll be at the International Home Show at the International Centre (near Pearson Airport) next week, from Thursday October 27th to Sunday October 30th. We'll be presenting our "Take-Out Design box" on Saturday at 5:30pm and Sunday at 2:30pm. Come visit us at booth 168 and we'll talk!

We've also added a link to the Ethel Design Inc. blog on our blogroll so you can follow our adventures in building our interior design business.

See you at the HomeShow and see you at the store!

Mid-Century doesn't just mean Mad Men

2011-10-19T16:39:00.007-04:00

We hear the term Mid-Century Modern so often that it's easy to forget there were a lot of design styles from the mid-20th century. It's not always about Womb chairs and danish teak, you know!

One style often overlooked is Mid Century Modest (big shout out to Pam Kueber at Retro Renovation for introducing us to that term!). This refers to the more modest style of furniture that the average family lived with, usually smaller in scale to reflect the smaller houses from that period, and slightly more traditional. Not everyone lived in a post and beam ranch style in the 50's, although Hollywood would like us to think so.

We just got in this buffet and hutch pair that screams Mid Century Modest.

UPDATE: Hutch has sold! (buffet still available)

UPDATE: Buffet has sold!

Each piece is small, in comparison to the low, sleeker teak versions that were popular about a decade and a half after this set was made. However, we love the diminutive proportions of this set and think they'd be perfect in a small condo or in a typical Toronto bay and gable. Manufactured by McLagan in Meaford, Ontario, the buffet features a diamond hatch pattern on the central door and the hardware is sooo reminiscent of the late 40's. Don't you just love the Deco pulls?

Each piece is $495.

If the early 50's is too kitschy for you, then you'll love the pop of this Rosenthal tea set.

Designed in 1969 by Wolf Karnagel, the pattern is "Mondial" and the set features a teapot, sugar bowl, six teacups & saucers, a soup tureen, six double handled soup bowls & saucers and five bowls. We're not sure if June Cleaver would have such a fashion forward set in her sideboard, but we think you might!

Rosenthal Mondial tea set is $350.

UPDATE: Rosenthal set has sold!

So whether it's Modern or Modest, it's always Mid-Century.

See you at the store!

Red, Orange and Yellow aren't just fall colours!

2011-10-16T13:38:00.005-04:00

Just got in three of these late 60's-early 70's pendants, in fiery orange, red and yellow textured acrylic. Right now they're pretty dirty and in need of a good cleaning, (and even have some dead bugs lodged in the seams and sockets), but otherwise are in fantastic shape. As soon as we have them all cleaned up and rewired, we'll post some pics. We think they'll look fabulous over a modern breakfast bar, or even in a shagadelic style rec room.

Come by and check them out.

See you at the store!

UPDATE: Pendant fixtures have sold!

Vintage Magazines for sale!

2011-10-05T12:39:00.007-04:00

For all of you out there who collect the Atomic Ranch and Modernism magazines, we just got a few back issues in and they're for sale here at the store for $6 each. Some of the Modernisms are over 10 years old and have great pictures and articles and, of course, who doesn't love ANYTHING by Atomic Ranch?

So stop by and stock up on your back issues.

See you at the store!

UPDATE: All Atomic Ranch backissues are sold, but still some Modernisms left

Ethel Design is here!

2011-10-02T14:37:00.006-04:00

As you know, we've been really busy around here lately. We are hard at work launching our interior design business, and of course, looking for fabulous finds to bring into the store!

We just got this vintage Coca-Cola sign, and while we usually don't do Coca-Cola memorabilia, we thought it was an excellent way to advertise our interior design services.

Our design services are based on a menu and the price depends on the size of your space.

We'll be posting about the Ethel Design Inc website as soon as it's up and running, which will have a more detailed version of the menu, along with our portfolio, but in the meantime, if you're looking for some interior design help, give us a call or drop by the store. We're your friendly neighborhood design shop and we're here to help.

See you at the store!

Ethel gets a facelift!

2011-09-28T15:00:00.009-04:00

First of all, we apologize for the lack of posts this month. We've been sooo busy with our new design venture AND reconfiguring the shop so we have more workspace for our design projects. Yes, you heard it, Ethel Design Inc. is finally up and running and we're already on project #2 with our first client! We partnered with our friend (and former co-worker in another life) Jordana Leventhal and we spent most of the summer working on our business plan and design menu. We unofficially launched at the end of August and it's been full steam ahead ever since. As soon as the Ethel Design website is up and running, we'll post a link.

To accomodate this addition to the Ethel family, we finally reconfigured the store and set up our new (vintage) desks. Plus, I was tired of everyone asking if my prized baby blue 1960's Steelcase metal desk was for sale so we figured they wouldn't ask if I was actually working on it!

First set was to clear the area out where the new store desk would be set up. Then my husband hung vintage op art graphic wallpaper that we've been saving for a special occasion. I guess Ethel's facelift is a very special occasion!

Then we moved the old cash desk into place, and refaced it with more vintage wallpaper, this time a crazy daisy pattern. Don't you love how the turquoises, blues and greens all work together?

Finally, we moved Jordana's new (vintage) 1970's metal steelcase desk to her workspace in the back area of the store. That way, if she's kneedeep in design work, she'll have some privacy and I can stay upfront and help all the customers!

All these changes mean some of the signature Ethel pieces are for sale. Yep, that's right, the famous light fixture that used to hang over the cash desk is now up for grabs.
It's two pieces, a vintage industrial pendant from Norway and the mirror "halo" that hangs indepentently around it. We're hanging a $350 price tag on it.

We're also selling the vintage office credenza that was our back counter.
This credenza was made in Canada by Tempo, is 7' long, weighs a ton and has tons of storage. It's priced at $995.

UPDATE: Credenza has sold!

We're also letting go of the bright blue plastic pop mirror that used to hang behind the cash desk. This mirror was manufactured in Finland by Finnmirror and is very Verner Panton!

Mirror is priced at $125.

So come by to see all the big changes at Ethel and ask about our new Design Menu.

See you at the store!

New Modernism Magazine is here!

2011-09-14T13:04:00.003-04:00

Just got in the Fall 2011 issue of Modernism Magazine, and it's packed full of vintage goodness, as usual!

This issue contains features on George Nelson, living in a Round House (I wonder if Chuck Norris lives there, due to his fondness for roundhouse kicks?), Mexican Deco graphics, and modernism in India.

So drop by the store and pick it up, and if you haven't grabbed the latest Atomic Ranch, there's still a few left.

See you at the store!

DIY Dining

2011-09-09T14:31:00.008-04:00

Sometimes all it takes is a little elbow grease, a little love, (and maybe some help from some qualified professionals), and a sad, tired piece of furniture can be as good as new. Take this vintage 1960's walnut dining set for instance.
The chairs are solid with a graceful upholstered back insert, despite the not so fabulous striped tweed fabric.
This would be an easy fix by our friends at Princess Perfect Upholstery.

The table is sturdy, and has a gorgeous grain, despite the water damage due to being stored on it’s side in a damp basement.

The damage has caused some swelling and some of the veneer to lift, but this can mostly be remedied with a stripping, sanding glueing, clamping and refinishing. This set is a diamond in the rough and is waiting for someone to love it enough to polish it up and give it a good home!

Dining set (As-Is) $250

UPDATE: Dining set has sold (to an adventurous young lady who's going to take on the refinishing herself!)

Black and White world

2011-09-03T16:10:00.007-04:00

Ethel loves old movies, especially film noir. Sometimes black and white can tell a story better than a riot of colour, even though a steady diet of grey tones can leave one a little cold. We love colour in the store but sometimes it's nice to bring a little of that black and white home.

We've had this vintage shelving unit in the basement at the store for a while, but only just have had the room to set it up on the shop floor. It was custom built in the 50's for the home of a toy shop owner by the same person who built the store fixtures for the toyshop. It's modular and has really nice brass door pulls, and we love the contrast of the black and white doors against the blondewood cabinet frames.

The unit sells for $1395.

Peeking out on one of the cabinet shelves is this framed 70's owl (are there any other kind?) in tones of grey, black and white.
This glamourous fellow would look perfect in a space filled with smoked glass coffee tables, lucite light fixtures and shag rugs.

Framed owl is $65

Check out this vintage 1940's black and white chalkware lamp with oversize whipstitched shade. It looks like it's from the set of a film noir, maybe on the end table in the living room of the femme fatale, waiting to be used as a murder weapon! It weighs a ton so it's heavy enough!

Chalkware lamp is $125

Speaking of lamps, we finally crossed a project off our store to-do list. With the help of HandyBro (my brother-in-law Paul), we were able to install this shelf to feature all of our lamps with no shades.
On their own they look sad and orphaned, but grouped like this, they look quite elegant, we think. Now all they need is someone to adopt them and find them some lampshades.

See you at the store!

New Atomic Ranch is here!

2011-08-31T13:29:00.003-04:00

We just got in the Fall 2011 issue of Atomic Ranch, and as usual, it's chock full of vintage goodies!

A profile of designer Isamu Noguchi, a "pets on mid-century furniture" photo contest, and of course, lots of stories on mid-century houses and the owners that love them!

So drop by the store to get your copy before they're all gone.

See you at the store!

More Meow!!!

2011-08-27T16:16:00.006-04:00

After our feline post a few days ago, we ended up with more kitties in the store!

For those of you not familiar with Witco, it’s a company that manufactured wood decor, generally made out of red cedar with dark walnut stain, back in the 50’s & 60’s. Specializing in carved furniture and wall art, this company was best known for it’s polynesian and jungle style furniture and accessories. In fact, the Jungle Room in Elvis’s Graceland is entirely furnished with Witco. One of the most popular and sought after wall art pieces from Witco, is the world map, with the continents being carved out of wood, mounted onto a painted blue background. They also did viking ships, tiki masks and quite a few variations on the feline form.

This trio of kitties is priced at $225 and is stamped Witco on the back

We also got in yet ANOTHER panther lamp. Well, this would could be a cougar, or maybe a mountain lion... we’re not experts in big cats of North America. All we know is it’s as kitschy as all get out, and we hope it gets along with the other three big cat lamps in here!

Cougar lamp is $65

So, if you love kitties as much as Ethel, come by and say “hi” (or meow....)

See you at the store!

Let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic....

2011-08-22T23:55:00.005-04:00

We always say that orange was Frank Sinatra's favourite colour, but today, it's Ethel's favourite colour. Not everyone will agree with his politics, but we can all agree on his last message.

"My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world." - Jack Layton

RIP Jack. We'll miss you.

Meow!

2011-08-20T13:06:00.009-04:00

Ethel loves her animal friends and while we don't currently have a store cat (remember Edyth?) we do have other kitties to keep us company around the store.

We love this vintage ceramic panther lamp, complete with it's original shade. Perfect for that rockabilly lounge or that exotic jungle room!

Panther lamp is $125

If you like your felines a little more domestic, check out this folk art pen & ink drawing. 5 cats instead of one, and they don't shed!

Cats by Pat is $45

UPDATE: Cats have sold!

If these cats are a little too abstract for you, how about this pair of big eyed friends? By kitschy "Big Eyed Art" artist Gig, these prints are from the Donald Art Company and are mounted on half inch thick corkboard with a hole for hanging. Perfect for that 70's Brady Bunch bedroom.

Pity Kitty and Pity Puppy are $15 each

UPDATE: Big Eyed kitty & puppy have sold!

If the big eyes are making you sad, then how about this black cat screened pair of salt & pepper shakers? This wooden set would add some feline fun to your knotty pine kitchen!

S&P shakers are $12 for the set

UPDATE: Salt & Pepper shakers have sold!

So, remember, it may be a dog eat dog world out there but kitties are always our friends!

See you at the store!

Daniel Boone rides again...

2011-08-13T16:59:00.004-04:00

We have a knack for finding the right homes for our vintage goodies.

This cool biker dude walked in the store with his wife, and while I doubt he was interested in 50's prom dresses, I knew he'd love this fringed buckskin coat we had at the clothing pop-up. I pointed it out to him, and he said he'd been looking for one! Once he tried it on, it was a no-brainer.

So it just goes to show that there's a buyer out there for everything. Also, his wife bought some vintage chalkware fruit, and she told me she had a big collection at home, so it also goes to show you that you can't judge a book by its cover!

See you at the store!

2 days left for vintage fashion...

2011-08-13T14:21:00.003-04:00

Only two more days left for the House of Shaude Vintage Clothing pop-up shop!
Shannon would rather sell it instead of pack it all up on Sunday, so come on down and make her an offer on that 50's prom dress, hawaiian shirt, 70's sequined disco top or vintage rhinestones!
See you at the store!

Beaded glamour!

2011-08-11T11:59:00.006-04:00

We just can't get over all the lovely vintage clothes here at the store!

Today we're featuring a pair of cashmere/angora beaded sweaters, straight from the 50's.

Check out this gorgeous pale mocha coloured sweater, with coordinating beading in brown, and gold, with brown satin piping.
Our favourite is this pink number with white satin piping, and coordinating beading in pearl and silver.

Each sweater is fully lined with invisible hook and eye closures and satin piping around the cuffs, collar and edges. The beading is around the cuffs, collar and edges on both, and is in near perfect condition.

The sweaters were both made in British Hong Kong and are a small fit, but would work beautifully as a shoulder shrug over a dainty summer cocktail dress (or one of the vintage 50's prom dresses we have right now.
Each sweater is $85.

UPDATE: mocha sweater with brown and gold beading has sold!

See you at the store!

Chrome for the Home

2011-08-10T14:23:00.006-04:00

We just got in two of these groovy 70's chrome framed arm chairs.
Manufactured by Patrician Furniture Company out of High Point, North Carolina,

this pair of glamorous beauties would look great in a swanky bachelor pad or sophisticated 70's inspired space. We're pricing them at $250 each or $400 for the pair.

UPDATE: Chrome frame chairs have sold!

Also, only 5 days left for the House of Shaude vintage clothing pop-up shop! So if you're in the market for a little tropical fun...

Hawaiian shirts - priced between $10 to $40 each

Or if you're headed out to do a little cowpunching out on the range...

Western shirts - prices vary

Come by the shop and check out the vintage fashion. Hey, you may not have room for a new sofa, but there's always room in the closet for a little vintage fun!

See you at the store!

Ethel's closet

2011-08-06T16:10:00.004-04:00

First day of the House of Shaude vintage clothing pop up shop and things are flying out the door!

We have our eye on this gorgeous hand embroidered shawl in black and fuschia.

Shawl is $250.

Wouldn't it look fantastic over this vintage pink prom dress?

Prom dress is $150

Or perhaps we could funk it up with a a stylin' vintage Biltmore hat.

Biltmores from $35 to $50

We also have lots of hawaiian shirts for the tiki lover, western shirts for the cowboy, eighties glam for the high powered executive and 70's sequins for the disco queen.

So drop by the shop and check it out.

See you at the store!

Legs L'amour

2011-08-02T14:49:00.004-04:00

We just got this lovely leggy lounge chair in and we wanted to show it to you.

Originally in a 1960s orange weave, it had seen better days and needed some Ethel (and Princess Perfect) love. We went with a hard wearing dark green chenille corduroy with a coordinating pattered box cushion for the seat. We love the legs on the outside and think it gives this otherwise masculine chair a sexy edge.

It's priced at $1200.

You can come see it this weekend at our vintage clothing pop-up sale!

See you at the store!

If this desk could talk...

2011-07-29T14:01:00.004-04:00

Last night, after closing the store, we went to assemble this desk in it’s new home.

Well, not this exact desk, but one exactly like it. We originally posted about it back in March (see Atomic Desk post). This boomerang shaped Peter Lovig designed Danish teak desk had been in our personal collection for years. In fact, my husband, Dave LeBlanc, wrote many a column on modernist architecture and heritage preservation for the Globe and Mail at this very desk. Here it is, in his office at our old house.

Back in January, when we moved from our 60‘s suburban backsplit to our downtown condo, we had hoped it would work in the new office area, but it was just too big. So into the store it came, where it languished, unassembled and in pieces, in the basement until we had room for it on the store floor. Finally, a few weeks ago, we had room to set it up, so my patient husband assembled it, like he had done many times before, and once it was all set up, it didn’t take long to get lots of notice.

And on Tuesday of this week, it sold!. Once Dave had disassembled it for the last time, it was picked up by movers and delivered to it’s new home, and last night we went to assemble it, as Dave knows this desk inside and out, and he wanted to make sure it was done properly to ensure the customer was happy. It now sits in the reception area of Primevista Television, the production company behind award winning lifestyle and interior design programming such as Sarah’s House, Sarah 101, Design Inc and Room Service. Who knew Sarah Richardson liked Danish Modern?

So, like many of the heritage buildings my husband writes about, the same can be said for the furniture in my store. Every piece has a story.

For more stories, drop by Ethel and see for yourself.

See you at the store!

Vintage clothing from Ethel!

2011-07-25T11:56:00.004-04:00

Ethel loves vintage style for your home, and now you can have vintage style for your closet too! Join vintage clothing buyer and stylist, Shannon Davies, in the Ethel retail event space (located in the back of the shop) and she’ll share her fashion secrets!

Hint: life is too short for beige..and one can never have enough bracelets!

We'll be selling 50’s, 60,s 70’s vintage clothing for all occasions, along with vintage accessories, jewellery, and vintage baby clothing.

August 6th to 14th.

Cash only

See you at the store!

Ethel's fans!

2011-07-24T12:50:00.003-04:00

We absolutely love it when we get compliments on the store. After all, what gal doesn't love a good compliment? We especially love it when we get customers who tell us they've posted about the store on their blog, or read something nice about us on another blog that prompted them to come down to Leslieville to check us out in person!

Today, we had a couple in, who are currently living in Toronto, but originally hail from Atlanta, Georgia. Great accents, and great taste too, as they left with a bagful of goodies! Before they left, the gal gave me her card and said she's posted about the store on her blog. So big shout out to Jamie R Kern and her adorable blog, that's now been added to our blogroll on the right.

Spread the positivity people and it will come back to you!

See you at the store!

Wedding Bells

2011-07-23T13:28:00.013-04:00

Summer is the time for weddings. We even have one coming up here in the store! Jordana Leventhal, our new interior design partner is walking down the aisle next Sunday and we couldn't be more excited for her!

If you're headed to a wedding this year, why not forgo the typical "on sale at the Bay" crystal dish wedding gift and give the bride and groom something unique that they'll actually use!

How about a set of vintage 40's melmac for their patio? Cheerful AND pratical!

Melmac pieces priced individually

UPDATE: MOST of the Melmac has sold, only a few cups 'n saucers left

If the happy couple's entertaining style is more of the libation kind, this gorgeous set of 8 dot highball glasses would be sure to add sparkle to their newlywed cocktail parties.

Dot glasses & carrier - $55 for set

UPDATE: Dot glasses & carrier have sold!

Maybe the happy couple can't afford an exotic honeymoon, but with this vintage "Women of the Ndebele" Tretchikoff print, they can feel like they've been to Africa!

Tretchikoff print in original frame - $75

This mint condition 70's era fondue set from Eatons has never been used and comes with everything the newlyweds need for a swingin' 70's style fondue party. All they need to add is the shag carpet and Mantovani on the hifi. The purple, green, yellow and red plates have matching fondue forks and will liven up any awkward dinner party.

Fondue set - $65

UPDATE: Fondue set has sold! (and being given as a wedding gift too!)

If fondue isn't their style, we have lots of fun and funky dishes for more conventional dinner parties, or even for lunch when the new mother-in-law makes an unexpected visit!

Ben Seibel Iroquois plates in Lazy Daisy pattern - $10 each.

UPDATE: Ben Seibel plates have sold!

If the happy couple really are looking for a crystal candy dish, why don't you give them one with a little more colour?

Italian art glass dish - $35

This little pink darling will work in any young bride's boudoir, and there's lots more in different colours available in the store.

UPDATE: Pink Italian art glass dish has sold!

So before you cave and give cash, think about giving some colour!

See you at the store!

Cocktail time!

2011-07-15T16:47:00.003-04:00

We REALLY need to stop buying vintage barware for the store. Everyone's going to think Ethel is becoming an alcoholic!

Although, it is almost the cocktail hour....

See you at the store!

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

2011-07-13T13:57:00.014-04:00

Ethel loves old movies and has a soft spot for Sergio Leone, the king of the Spaghetti Westerns. So imagine how happy she was when we found this sofa and chair set, straight from circa 1960’s Italy!

The cushions are reversible so you have basic brown tweed, or manly man plaid.

We think Clint would approve.

Sofa is $495, chair is $295.

UPDATE: Chair & sofa have sold!

From the same house came a set of three matching solid wood coffee tables. Made in Elmira, Ontario from 1959, we’re guessing this trio has seen it’s share of cocktail parties. Each table is in great shape, with some surface wear, (some worse than others.).

The tall square table has a small spot of veneer damage, seen here.

Tall table is $175.

The low round table has the same elegant legs as the square tables and is just shy of 36" in diameter.
It has some marring on the surface finish, which would disappear if you were to strip and refinish it.

Round table is $175

UPDATE: Round table has sold!

The low square table has the same elegant legs as it's brothers, seen above.
However, it seemed to have fared worse over the years, with some gouges in the corner.

Low table is $75.

UPDATE: Low table has sold!

To complete the Italian Stallion look, how about this pair of horses?

Horse art is $175

A label on the back proudly declares it is a "Turner Wall Accessory" , which could explain why we were told this same art was used on the set of I dream of Jeannie.

If you love the orange but you're not a horse person, how about this small resin coated abstract?

Orange abstract is $75.

UPDATE: Art has sold!

Small enough for table top, it can add a pop of colour anywhere.

If cats are more your speed, how about this pair of stylish felines?

Similar to Witco, this pair of elegant wooden kitties are mounted to a burlap backing and are framed in a simple wooden frame. Meow!

$95 for the pair.

UPDATE: Kitty cat art has sold!

So If you’re looking for something good, something bad or even something ugly, we’re sure Ethel can help you out!

See you at the store!

MORE MUSTARD!!!!!!

2011-07-09T13:26:00.005-04:00

Just got this delicious orange/mustard 50's sofa in.

Original upholstery with a lovely 3 button detail on each side. Very Dick Van Dyke!

It's priced at $595.

UPDATE: Sofa has sold!

We're also unpacking a whole load of gorgeous vintage ceramics, dishes, art glass, pottery, art and lighting and we'll post pictures as soon as it's ready. But for a sneak peek, come by the store!

See you at the store!

Bowling for drinks!

2011-07-06T14:48:00.011-04:00

Whats the only sport you can play while having a cocktail? No, not darts... we’re talking about BOWLING!!! Which is why there’s so much vintage bowling themed drinkware out there.

Fun bowling facts:

5 pin bowling was invented in Canada and is also known as “duck pin” bowling
we had our wedding reception at a bowling alley
The above fact does not in any way indicate that we are good bowlers

We do, however love to bowl and we love cocktails, so it’s a match made in heaven.

Check out this set of four “roly poly” bowling glasses. Perfect for a Big Lebowski White Russian!

Set of four roly polys in carrier for $24

UPDATE: roly poly set has sold!

This set of four Collins glasses would work for beer or highballs. It all depends on how well you’re bowling that night!

Set of four Collins glasses for $20

UPDATE: Collins glasses have sold!

If you prefer 5 pin, then there’s this pair of highball glasses for $6 each

This is not a real bowling ball, but a cocktail set holder. No shot glasses included as we think they were smashed in a fit of anger over a bad bowling score!

Yours for $15

If you need to sober up after too many beers during the game, how about this pair of stemmed pyrex 5 pin theme coffee mugs?

Mugs are $12 each, ashtray is $28

Check out these vintage bowling trophies. Switch out the nameplate and your friends will think you’re a pro!

Trophy prices vary

So even if you’re a terrible bowler, you can drink like one!

See you at the store!

Ethel has Pride!

2011-07-02T11:59:00.007-04:00

Ethel's favourite colour is turquoise, but she loves all the colours of the rainbow! So we're celebrating Pride Week by doing just that. Embracing diversity, colour and our friends in the LGBT community, and of course, good design.

We're not sure how our new mayor feels about all of this, but he's invited down to Ethel to discuss. He could learn a thing or two about good design anyway!

Maybe he'll learn to have pride in the entire city, not just the part he lives in.

See you at the store!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-06-30T17:26:00.002-04:00

Ethel is nothing if not patriotic, so we are closing the store tomorrow, Friday July 1st, to celebrate Canada Day. We will be back open on Saturday July 2nd.

Happy Canada Day everyone!

Tiki Party time!

2011-06-29T15:26:00.014-04:00

We’re a few days into summer and it still feels like early spring around here. Or maybe October. But we have a way to beat the cool weather...throw a tiki party! Light some bamboo torches, put the Martin Denny on the hifi and get ready to get leid!

First, you’ll need a few mugs.

How about this guy?
Doesn’t he look angry? Angry because you’re not drinking!

UPDATE: Angry tiki mug has sold!

How about these colourful characters?
You’ll be seeing rainbows after having a Zombie or two out of these fellas!

UPDATE: Trio of mugs have sold!

This one even tells you what kind of drink to serve!

(All tiki mugs priced at $15 each)

You’ll need an ice bucket to keep the drinks cold

(Ice bucket priced at $25)

A cocktail shaker or two to show off your mad mixology skillz.

(Shakers priced at $16 each)

You’ll need some swizzle sticks to spear the pineapple and maraschino cherries for your newly concocted tropical drinks.

(Swizzle sticks 10 for 25 cents, coconut mugs are $12 each)

UPDATE: All 3 coconut mugs have sold!

If you want to get a little musical, how about a pair of bongo drums to pound away along with some vintage exotica records or Don Ho.

(Vintage souvineir bongo drums priced at $24)

If you have designated drivers, then you can serve them some Hawaiian punch from this vintage pineapple juice jug and cups!

(Plastic pineapple pitcher & cup set priced at $24)

UPDATE: Pitcher now being sold with set of 6 yellow pineapple cups for $30 and orange & green mugs being sold separately

UPDATE: Pineapple pitcher & 6 matching yellow pineapple cups have sold! Orange & green cups still available

UPDATE: All pineapple cups have sold!

To give your space that “exotic” atmosphere, how about a pair of vintage paint by numbers? Ooooh, scary tribal drummers!

(vintage paint by numbers are $40 each or $75 for the pair)

Or a pair of masks for that politically incorrect “jungle” vibe.

(Masks priced at $20 each)

UPDATE: Both masks have sold!

If there’s one thing to tie it all together, it's an authentic tiki bar!

This one is priced at $1500 for the bar and four stools, and is available for rentals as well.

For more tips on throwing an awesome tiki party or backyard luau, please visit the following websites, all run by friends of Ethel:
http://www.maitaionline.com/
http://www.facebook.com/people/Tipicular-Fixins/100001419652105
http://www.fraternalorderofmoai.org/Ohana/

See you at the store!

Tiki Time!

2011-06-28T17:49:00.002-04:00

We're back from our week away and very happy to be back in the store. I think Ethel missed us!

Anyway, we were in upstate New York, in Lake George for the annual Ohana - Luau at the Lake festival. It's a gathering of tikiphiles from across the US and Canada, and we had a blast! We even met some Torontonians that we hope become friends of the store too!

Anyway, we're back with lots of stories so drop by the store and we'll tell some tall Tiki tales!

See you at the store!

Ethel taking a few days off

2011-06-23T12:59:00.002-04:00

As circumstance would have it, we're away for a few days and our usual gal is under the weather so Ethel is taking an unscheduled vacation. We hope to have the store open on Saturday and Sunday.

Please accept Ethel's apologies for any inconvenience.

Ethel loves Dads!

2011-06-19T12:29:00.004-04:00

Today is Father's Day so go give your dad a hug and tell him how much he means to you. It'll be the best gift he could get.

(chalkboard design done by Dave LeBlanc, our dear sweet hubby and father to our little Isaac the cat!)

See you at the store!

Liz Taylor would approve

2011-06-18T16:05:00.003-04:00

We've just added a few more friends to our blogroll that specialize in vintage costume jewellery. We've often thought about starting to sell vintage costume jewellery in the store, but we're not sure if it would fly in Leslieville. Besides, Ethel won't let us sell any of her really nice pieces!

So instead, if you're looking for a bit of vintage bling to wear, please check out our friend Gay Isber's website for her company called The Sugar Factory, and our new friend Barbara Schwarz's company called TruFaux Jewels. Both ladies know their stuff and can help you find that perfect piece to finish off that perfect vintage dress.

See you at the store!

Letting go....

2011-06-17T12:56:00.002-04:00

Sometimes it's hard to let go. Sometimes it's easy.

We've had these chrome frame club chairs in the store for longer than we care to remember so it is time to let them go.

We've marked them down to $75 each and we are sooo hoping we don't have to carry them back into the store by the end of the weekend!

Come by and check them out and maybe you'll help us let go.

See you at the store!

Father's Day Fun!

2011-06-15T15:09:00.006-04:00

Father’s day is this weekend, and instead of getting him yet another necktie, why not get him something he can really use, like some vintage barware!

Does Dad fancy himself the next Tiger Woods or Jack Nicklaus? Forget about a tee time! How about a golf themed ice bucket and strainer instead? That way he can make himself a drink to forget about his bad golf score.

Ice bucket is $18, strainer is $8.

If your dad prefers indoor sports instead of being out on the links, then how about a set of vintage bowling glasses? Even if it’s all gutter balls for Daddy-o, he can drown his sorrows with a drink!

Prices as marked

If Pops isn’t much of an athlete, and prefers to watch sports instead of actually participating, then you can’t go wrong with this vintage Plycraft Lounge Chair.

A popular knock off of the Eames Lounge Chair, the big difference is the tilt mechanism, the colour of the leather, and the visible hardware. But for our money, just as comfortable. This version is in terrific shape, with the original brown leather upholstery, and comes with the ottoman.

Chair & ottoman priced at $695.

UPDATE: Plycraft lounger & ottoman has sold!

If he doesn’t even like sports but prefers a good read, then how about a few vintage pulp fiction novels? The covers are better than the story but don’t tell Dad!

Pulp novels are $4 each.

So come by the store and get Dad something fun for Father’s day. He deserves it!

See you at the store!

New Modernism Magazine is here!

2011-06-15T13:53:00.003-04:00

Just got in the Summer 2011 issue of Modern Magazine and as usual, it's chock full o' vintage goodies!

Featured in this issue are stories on vintage 60's British fabrics (think Carnaby Street meets Ray & Charles Eames), Saarinen's Miller House, now open to the public, and lots more.

We also still have a few copies of the Summer 2011 issue of Atomic Ranch so if you haven't picked that one up yet, then come by and get both for some poolside reading.

See you at the store!

Ethel has a craving for Danish...Teak

2011-06-10T15:55:00.009-04:00

Lovely sunny day here in Leslieville, so we decided to put a few more things out on the sidewalk to see if we could find them homes.

Here we have a pair of Danish teak dining chairs perched on a Danish teak storage cabinet, with a single teak desk chair on the right. The dining chairs are $75 each, or $100 for the pair, the storage cabinet is $100 as well, and the desk chair is $50.

UPDATE: Storage cabinet has sold!

UPDATE: Desk chair has sold!

You remember this pair!

The lovely chrome club chairs with the snappy red upholstery! Well, it's time for them to go so we've marked them down from $250 each to $150 each or $250 for the pair. They are perfect for that smoking room man cave! Between them is the Saarinen style coffee table base (in need of a top). It's priced at $75.

UPDATE: Red chairs have sold!

We also got in a really nice Danish Teak bookshelf with storage below. Priced at $395, it's perfect for your modern space.

UPDATE: Bookshelf has sold!

So if you need some Danish in your life (and not the pastry kind!) come by Ethel.

See you at the store!

From Bare Bulb to Groovy Time!

2011-06-08T15:09:00.006-04:00

Do you recognize this?

It’s that basic bare bulb light fixture, most commonly found in laundry rooms, unfinished basements and in bathrooms in cheapo rental apartments.

If you have one of these and you are past the student solution of a trip to chinatown for a paper lantern to disguise it, then you may just want to jazz it up with one of these vintage 1960s spun acrylic “spaghetti” ceiling shades.

These were all the rage in basement rec rooms back in the Brady Bunch days, as you just needed to screw in a light socket mount to hold the shade into the ceiling socket, then screw in a light bulb, and presto, instant grooviness!

We have five in stock right now, two with pink swirls, two with green and one in caramel. We have four of the accompanying socket mounts, so one shade could be repurposed for a table lamp or even a vessel for a dayglo flower arrangement (that’s up to you!)

They’re priced at $45 each and will help you groove up your Blando Calrission laundry room or rec room reno. Greg Brady would approve.

See you at the store!

UPDATE: Three of the fixtures have sold...only one pink and one green one left!

Ethel on Film!

2011-06-03T15:51:00.005-04:00

Back in January, we were interviewed by Nicola Waugh, a Ryerson student who was working on her thesis project, entitled "Embodied Artifacts: Memory, Nostalgia and Mid-Century Objects". Well, Nicola is done her thesis film and she sent us a link.

This short film perfectly encapsulates why we love mid-century design, both for it's longevity and it's positivity.

Here's a link.

http://vimeo.com/24285433

(again, you have to cut and paste as we still haven't figured out how to imbed video links from the web).

Check it out and let us know if you agree.

See you at the store!

Hot enough for ya?

2011-06-01T14:12:00.009-04:00

We have been complaining about all the wet weather we've been having lately here in Leslieville but it seems summer has finally arrived, with a vengance!

It was not quite 30 degrees here yesterday, but felt closer to 40 with the humidex! We're not complaining as Ethel loves the heat (she's planning to retire to Palm Springs one day).

So with summer time fun in mind, today's weird Wednesday post is about all things barbecue.

If you're planning lots of outdoor dining and don't want to risk the wedding wedgewood on the patio, then you need some vintage melmac.

This miracle material was all the rage in the 50's as the concept of indoor/outdoor living became more popular. Still being made today by companies like Precidio, we love the vintage melmac best, for the variety of shapes, styles and pastel colours. Prices vary, so come by the store to check it out.

UPDATE: Thermos bowls in middle of middle shelf have sold!

If the man in your life is a hardcore griller, then forget the novelty apron and chefs hat, and treat him to one of these vintage Stoyke barbecue themed trays, or the vintage divided ceramic platter.

Small square tray is $25, the large platter is $35 and the ceramic platter is $15.

UPDATE: All three BBQ platters have sold!

If your man is a little too ambitious with the lighter fluid on the charcoal briquettes, you may have to call the fire department!

Or you can just call these two Mr. Sock Monkeys, driving a vintage Fire Chief pedal car. They might not know how to put out the fire, but they'll be the life of the party!

Monkeys are $60 each and the pedal car is $150.

UPDATE: Pedal car has sold!

And if it's still too hot, grab yourself a vintage thermalware bowl and dish up some ice cream.

$15 for the set of 6 thermal ware bowls (seen on the right), and the ice cream is a vintage cardboard cut out.

So stay cool in this heat with some vintage fun!

See you at the store!

New Atomic Ranch is here!

2011-05-27T12:58:00.002-04:00

The summer 2011 issue of Atomic Ranch just arrived, and as usual, it's filled with so much mid century goodness that we think we may put off remerchandising the back room in order to read it cover to cover!

Featuring stories on butterfly roofs, travel trailers (oh how we love the gleam of a vintage airstream sailing down the highway!), landscaping ideas and of course, lots of great ads for great stuff.

We also have one copy of the spring 2011 issue so if you've missed that one, pick it up.

See you at the store!

Rock Stars at Ethel

2011-05-25T14:04:00.006-04:00

Ethel likes to surround herself with smart, creative people as she believes you are judged by the company you keep.

One of those creative types is our friend Dustin Rabin. Dustin is a photographer, who's portfolio features everyone from Sir Richard Branson to Dita Von Teese, to the Beastie Boys, Billy Talent and the Foo Fighters. He's even been known to shoot a wedding or two, if the couple are really good friends of his!

When Dustin wanted to use the store for a photoshoot a few weeks ago, we didn't hesitate to say yes. He needed a retro living room environment and since we have lots of groovy living room furniture here, it was a perfect backdrop.

His subject was a band called White Wives, and while we've never heard their music, Ethel was sure they were nice polite boys who would treat the store with respect.

Here are a few of the band's favourite shots.

Don't they look like they're having fun, playing records on the vintage turntable, playing checkers and reading Fortune Magazine?

For more of Dustin's work, please check out the link below. We've also added his site to our blog roll on the right as well.
http://www.dustinrabin.com/
For more info on White Wives, here's a link to their site.
http://www.wearewhitewives.com/

You can let us know if Ethel would like their music!
See you at the store!

Victoria Day weekend sale

2011-05-19T15:01:00.003-04:00

We're gearing up for our second annual Victoria Day long weekend sidewalk sale here at the store, and we're hoping all you Ethel fans come out and take some vintage goodies home with you!

We've got some vintage 70's patio furniture, vintage kitchenware, Plastic Pop lighting, lounge chairs, and whatever else will fit on the sidewalk in front of the store! We're clearing out to make room for some store changes (all good!) so come by the shop this weekend and check it out.

The sidewalk sale starts Saturday at noon, and will finish Monday at 5.

See you at the store!

New Whigby!

2011-05-17T12:09:00.007-04:00

It's no secret that Ethel loves Whigby, and we're doubly excited about their new card line as we think it suits Ethel to a T.

Don't these ladies look like they're on their way to meet Ethel for lunch?

Who doesn't love a good grilled cheese sandwich?

Owls are ALWAYS popular!

And of course, our favourite party invites are back in.
We'd be scared to say no to this party!

So drop by the store to check out the rest of the Whigby line.
See you at the store!

I want to live at Ann Margarets house!

2011-05-16T11:53:00.005-04:00

Just a quick note for all you Saturday Night Live fans out there. If you watched the Ed Helms hosted episode on Saturday May 14th, you hopefully stayed up through the whole episode to catch the last sketch. It was brilliant! Here's a link if you haven't seen it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=re5nivclhQA

(you have to cut and paste into your browser as Ethel hasn't figured out html yet!)

Who doesn't love Kristen Wiggs Ann Margaret? And who doesn't love that set!

Anyway, theres a hallway portion on the right side of that set that has a pair of vintage harlequin musician plaques in turquoise and orange (Ethel's favourite colours). We have a pair almost identical to them at the store!
The ones on TV were rectangular, however ours are diamond shaped, and are priced at $30 for the pair.

Drop by and check them out, and maybe we'll be playing a little Ann Margaret to set the mood.

See you at the store!

Ethel goes International!

2011-05-13T12:37:00.005-04:00

Sometimes we fantasize about all the great trips Ethel gets to take while we're running the store for her.
We can imagine her lounging at the beach getting some sun, ordering the cabana boys around.

(Vintage teak folding deck chair $95)

UPDATE: deck chair has sold!

Or riding horses in Arizona, wearing her best Calamity Jane costume, ordering the cowboys around.

(Vintage souvenir ashtray - $15)

or Oklahoma, where she'll be wearing her best Annie Oakley costume, ordering the cowgirls around!

(original cast soundtrack on vinyl - prop rental only)

Or perhaps she's strolling the boulevards and back alleys of Gay Paree, looking for romance, ordering the snooty french waiters around.

(Vintage Paris street scene print - $45)

Or in sunny Spain, taking pictures of the bullfights with her handy Brownie Fiesta, ordering the matadors around.

(Vintage Brownie Fiesta camera w/ original box - $22)

UPDATE: Brownie Fiesta camera has sold!

Perhaps she's swimming in the ocean with the help of a pair of vintage flippers, ordering the fish around.

(Vintage multicoloured rubber diving flippers - $40)

Well, wherever she is, we hope she's having the time of her life!

(Vintage Snider ball clock - $45)

UPDATE: Snider clock has sold!

Here in Leslieville, however, it's coffee time!

(vintage Made in Japan ceramic coffee pot - $20)

See you at the store!

Rockford Styles

2011-05-06T15:46:00.008-04:00

While Ethel has always been about mid century design, sometimes she lets it slip about her love for the 70's too, especially big masculine leading men like James Garner, star of TV's The Rockford Files.

In fact, we've often referenced the Rockford Files in the store, to describe big masculine furniture.

Take this gorgeous sideboard we just got in.
With the chunky pedestal leg supports,
inlaid tile top

(we can't make out the signature on the tile but we're guessing Danish!)

and parquet style doors, we think this piece is totally Jim Rockford's style.
So if you're a little teak-ed out and are craving a little bit of 70's manliness, then come by the store and check it out. It's priced at $1395.

See you at the store!

Weird Wednesday - what is it?

2011-05-04T16:12:00.006-04:00

It's the middle of the week which means another instalment of Weird Wednesday.

Today, we have this.

At first glance, this looks like a chic International style office building, maybe one that Don Draper would work in.
Here's another view.
If you can read the writing, it is indeed a vintage electric can opener!

Judging by the design, we'd peg this General Electric beauty at being from the late 60's. Wouldn't it be perfect in your modern kitchen? It can go home with you for $12.
See you at the store!

Big Red and Orange Crush

2011-04-29T16:33:00.010-04:00

We missed posting a Friday sale last week so we have a really good one for you this time.

This pair of chrome framed red vinyl chairs have been in the store for quite a while now. One even spent some time at the hair salon next door (http://fusshairstudio.com/) as a dryer chair. The salon just renovated and so now the chair is back with it's brother. We love the Deco stylings of this pair and think they'd be perfect in an old school smoking lounge, a big masculine loft space or even as lobby chairs in a chic office. They're priced at $250 each, or $400 for the pair.

UPDATE: Red chairs have sold!

If your tastes run a bit more feminine and you don't have the room for a big pair of chairs like this, maybe you'd like this darling pair of orange case glass boudoir lamps.

This pair leans more on the ornate side but the bright orange keeps them modern. We think they're a little Sweet Charity and a little Barbarella! $65 each or $100 for the pair.

UPDATE: Orange lamps have sold!
See you at the store!

Visitor from planet Dansk

2011-04-27T13:01:00.006-04:00

This little wooden fellow landed at Ethel a few weeks ago.

At first, we thought it might be a small sculpture by Toronto's Sorel Etrog, or perhaps a little wooden alien from the planet Dansk. Upon further inspection (and a little help from Google images!) we determined he's actually a pepper mill, designed by Jens Quistgaard for Dansk.

He's priced at $35 and would look great in your modern kitchen.

UPDATE: The pepper mill has sold!

See you at the store!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-21T16:58:00.003-04:00

Ethel will be open Good Friday, April 22nd from 12 to 6, Saturday April 23rd from 12 to 6 and closed Easter Sunday April 24th. We'll be back to regular hours on Tuesday April 26th.

Happy Easter everyone!

Illustration by Glen Mullaly

Weird Wednesday - 70s shower time!

2011-04-20T15:03:00.006-04:00

Ethel is not just about fabulous vintage furniture, lighting and accessories. Sometimes we get something in that doesn't quite fall into any of these categories, but is so cool/unique/unexpected that we couldn't resist it. Therefore we're starting a new feature here on the blog, and we're calling it Weird Wednesdays.

Every Wednesday we'll feature something in the store that doesn't quite fit the Ethel mold, but we thought it was fun and we hope you do too.

Today's specimen is a matching vintage 1970's shower curtain and window curtain, from Simpson-Sears Ltd in Toronto.

This set features a mod pattern called "Starburst Brown", made up of brown, black , cream and gold circles on an opaque background.

Unfortunately, there's only one shower curtain panel at 34" x 74", but this would still look cool as an accent to a plain opaque curtain underneath. The window curtain has two panels, 34" x 48" each. Neither the shower curtain or window curtain has been used and still have that lovely fresh vinyl smell!

This set would instantly update your tired chocolate brown bathroom fixtures, or give a swingin' 70's vibe to your salle de bain.

We hate to break up the set so we're pricing the pair at $25.

UPDATE: Shower curtain has sold, but window curtain is still available for $10

See you at the store!

Friday fun!

2011-04-15T16:24:00.014-04:00

This friday we're showing off some of the new goodies we just got in, plus some lovely things that we would like to go out!

If the weather forecast for the weekend has you down (it's supposed to rain all day Saturday!), you could stay in and play boardgames. Take home this vintage Calgary Stampede Chuck Wagon races game for $20,

or this circa 1976 Careers game by Parker Brothers for $18.
Being a cowboy or a movie star is just a toss of the dice away!

UPDATE: Calgary Stampede game has sold!

If you can't wait for April showers to bring May flowers, then bring home this vintage Ingram daisy wall clock to cheer you up.
It'll brighten up your kitchen for $45, and it doesn't need watering.

If you love the clock, then you'll love this set of four 1970s Tupperware canisters in bright sunny yellow.

With the patented "burp" lid, these'll keep your flour, sugar, tea and coffee fresh!

UPDATE: Tupperware canisters have sold!

If the blues have got you blue, then you need this oversized blue glass snifter.

Perfect for a Blue Hurricane cocktail or maybe a new home for your goldfish! Cheaper than Murano glass at $35.

If you like your cocktails on the small side, then this darling little set is perfect.

Cocktails for four, so remember to share. The set is yours for $30.

UPDATE: Cocktail set has sold!

See you at the store!

Ethel on Facebook!

2011-04-10T13:59:00.002-04:00

Even though we are a vintage furniture store, we have to keep up with the times so we finally set up Ethel's own facebook page!

If you're on facebook, check out the page for updates on stock and what's happening in Leslieville. Try the link below, or hit the widget on the right.

See you at the store!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ethel-20th-Century-Living/177906975590059

Sapphire for sale!

2011-04-08T13:16:00.004-04:00

We're starting something new here at Ethel today. Every Friday I'm going to post something that, while Ethel loves it, it needs to go.
Today I'm featuring this set of Sapphire dishes by Crown Lynn of New Zealand.

This set has the following:
4 cups
7 saucers
1 creamer
4 small espresso cups
4 dessert plates
5 sandwich plates
4 bowls
7 dinner plates
1 platter
While it's not a complete set, and there are a few chipped dishes, it's a steal at $20 for everything. So if you're a dish queen like Ethel, come by the store to check it out!

UPDATE: Dish set has sold!
See you at the store!

Diary of a Danish Modern Sofa

2011-04-06T16:04:00.010-04:00

Sometimes when we find furniture for the store, it needs a lot of work before it can go on the floor for sale.

Take this three seater danish modern sofa frame.

When we first found it, it was in rough shape. The webbing was all gone and the frame was dried out and needed some repairs. After trying to fit it in our hatchback, we had to call Princess Perfect to pick it up, which saved us a step as Lisa Jo was able to do the necessary repairs in order to get it ready for cushions.

Once the repairs were done and new webbing was installed, we picked fabric for the simple box cushions that work so well with this style of frame. We went with a nice neutral army green khaki, perhaps to honour the battle this sofa frame endured before being rescued by us!

These are the cushions, waiting to go on the frame.

When the frame was delivered this afternoon, it needed to be oiled.

See the difference? This wood was thirsty! We're pretty sure it's not teak, but possibly walnut. Teak oil works on both (as well as rosewood and any tight grain hardwood). We applied the teak oil with Bulldog brand superfine steel wool, always going in the direction of the woodgrain, to ensure the oil gets forced into the grain and does its magic. For you teak owners at home, try to do this at least once a year to ensure your teak pieces live a long time and don't dry out. Remember, wood is organic and needs to be fed!

Once the frame was all oiled up and looking much better, we put the new cushions on.

Now this sofa is ready for the shop floor, and hopefully will go home with someone soon! Priced at $1295, it won't last long so come by and check it out. It's really comfortable.

See you at the store!

Spring cleaning!

2011-04-01T16:20:00.008-04:00

It's time for spring cleaning here at Ethel, so we're reducing the price of some of the bigger pieces in the store to make room for fresh stock, some of which is already making it's way into the store.

In fact, we just took delivery of this gorgeous chrome frame Le Corbusier style sofa with all new faux leather cushions and webbing. It's a collaboration with Princess Perfect as she had the frame but needed somewhere to showcase it. We love the caramel upholstery and we think it totally modernizes this version of a 20th century classic. It's priced at $1800.

UPDATE: LeCorbusier style sofa has sold!

Of course, there can only be room for one yellow sofa at a time at Ethel.

You've all seen this mustard vinyl sofa before. It was originally priced at $595 but is now $450.

You may also know this gorgeous glass topped dining table. Originally priced at $895, we're reducing it to $600.

So jump into springtime and come out to Leslieville.
See you at the store!

Time for teak

2011-03-29T17:30:00.010-04:00

Here's a lovely teak sofa frame with the original rubber webbing. We want to get cushions made for it, but sometimes the fabric we pick is not what our customers would pick. So we're asking all you readers out there to let us know what you'd like to see on this sofa before we send it out to the upholsterers. Do you like solid or pattern? Vinyl or fabric? Piping or topstitching? Or would you rather make that decision yourself and save us a trip to Princess Perfect?

Right now the frame is priced at $300 as-is (no cushions), but if you trust Ethel to pick out the fabric, then we'll send it out.

UPDATE: Teak sofa frame has sold!

We also got in this teak coffee table/bench with the sexy tapered brass legs.
It does have a few dark spots,

but would make an excellent front hall boot bench, and if your front hall bench is as covered in bags and purses as Ethel's then you won't even see the marks! It's priced at $250.

Also new this week is this pair of end tables with magazine shelves below.

They're priced at $65 each or $100 for the pair.

UPDATE: Pair of end tables have sold!

UPDATE: White vinyl chair & vintage deco telephone have sold!

And if teak isn't your thing, then you might like this little grey side table with black metal hairpin legs.

It's not an Eames wire base table, but it's close! It's priced at $150.

See you at the store!

Farewell Liz...

2011-03-23T11:13:00.003-04:00

This past Christmas I was given the book Furious Love, by Elizabeth Taylor. This book is about her life with Richard Burton, in all it's tumultuous, passionate glory. I haven't read it yet as I've been waiting for things to calm down at the store and the new condo to truly enjoy it. I think I'll start it tonight.

RIP Dame Elizabeth...

Atomic Desk

2011-03-21T12:02:00.005-04:00

As you all know, Ethel is one of the only stores in Toronto that sells the magazine Atomic Ranch. In the "Ranch Dressing" section of the latest issue, there's an inquiry about a desk that looked very familiar to us. In fact, it's a desk that we will be putting on the store floor for sale as soon as there's room to set it up, but we thought we'd give you blog readers a sneak peek.

Designed by Peter Lovig Nielsen in the 50's and manufactured by Hedensted Mobelfabrik in Denmark, this gorgeous boomerang shaped teak desk is a true work of art and we can't wait to show it to you. Unfortunately, it's disassembled in the basement, as we're waiting for room to properly showcase it on the store floor. So, you'll have to be satisfied with some web pictures we found of the same desk.

Don't you just love the flip down door revealing the mod graphic mirror? What a great hiding place for your secret stash of scotch, or vintage Playboys! This desk is meant to sit in the middle of a room so it can be enjoyed from all angles.
With three drawers there's plenty of room for work stuff too.

Once we have it on the store floor and all assembled, we'll be pricing it at $1295, as there are some issues with the legs, but overall, the desk is in fabulous shape. We think, once it's assembled and showcased in the store, it won't last so come by and see it before it goes.

See you at the store!

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T14:37:00.008-04:00

Today is St. Patricks day, which means all things green, so we thought we’d highlight some of our favourite green things around the store.

Gorgeous Swedish glass vase

Collection of green tinged West German pottery

UPDATE: Both vases on the right have sold (small avocado green vase and textured vase)

Leaf shape Royal Haeger ashtray (Smoking isn't green, but this ashtray is sooo cool!)

Collections of Italian glass decanters, cocktail sets, goblets and candy dishes

1970's Tennis player print (Bjorn Borg perhaps?)

Green is one of Ethel’s favourite colours and not just on March 17th. Living the vintage life is one of the best ways to be green. All your furniture is well made and well loved and has zero carbon footprint. So come by the store and be green with Ethel!

See you at the store!

New Modernism Magazine is here!

2011-03-16T14:18:00.004-04:00

It's a sign of spring when the new spring issue of Modernism comes in.

With features on the Kaufmanns of Fallingwater, Eileen Gray (hooray for Deco!), the Dansk designer Jens Quistgaard, and tons of gorgeous photos of all things modern (we're currently drooling over the Palm Springs house tour photos), this magazine will help you get into the mood for spring.

Plus, we have also have some Modernism back issues if you really need to get your mid-mod fix!

See you at the store!

Pink Boomerangs!

2011-03-10T15:41:00.008-05:00

We’re continuing with our project cleanout and today we have a 4’ x 8’ sheet of vintage pink boomerang Formica laminate.

The popular boomerang pattern was first introduced in the 50’s and was originally called “Skylark”. It has since been reissued every few years in different colourways.
It’s currently available through Formica only in Charcoal, but the Aqua version is still available till they run out of stock.

This version is from a late 80’s reissue and is in pink, a colour no longer available. We think it would be perfect for a vintage style pink powderoom or even an Airstream trailer makeover.
As you can see, this sheet has been rolled up, but will flatten out with a little perseverance.

There is a few chips on the edge, but shouldn’t be a problem if you’re thinking of using this for a small job.

The price for the sheet is $50.

Come by the store and check it out.

See you at the store!

UPDATE: The laminate has sold!

Ethel's getting a facelift

2011-03-08T11:08:00.003-05:00

Our apologies to our customers lately. The store has been a bit more messy and disorganized than we'd like and we know Ethel has higher standards than that!

So we're heading into spring with a new attitude and new store look.

For a while now, we've been plotting the store revamp and we are almost there. We're getting a new sales desk that will accommodate the growing interior design business side of things, and once the desk is in place, we know the rest of the store will follow suit. So bear with us while we rearrange, rejuvenate, renovate and give Ethel a much needed nip & tuck!

The good news is, all this work means we're clearing out even more furniture so there will be lots of deals to be had. Drop by the store and help us make room for the new and improved Ethel!

See you at the store!

Springtime Sneak Peek

2011-03-04T17:32:00.008-05:00

Here's just some of the tasty treats we just got in for the weekend.

Three Royal Haeger USA Triple Step Candle holders, Melmac soup bowls, vintage Vegas dice clock.....

UPDATE: Vintage Vegas clock has sold!

UPDATE: Orange & white ashtray has sold!

UPDATE: Yellow Royal Haeger candle holders have sold!

Fiestaware disc pitcher, ball pitchers and creamers, coral ceramic salt and pepper shakers.......

UPDATE: Fiestaware disc pitcher has sold!

Teak Table lamp, West German pottery, and so much more.

In fact, we hadn't unpacked it all before we sold a few pieces already!

UPDATE: Teak table lamp has sold!

It's all so colourful and don't we need a bit of colour to brighten up this dreary winter? Ethel thinks so!

Come by the store and get your dose of springtime colours.

See you at the store!

New Atomic Ranch is here!

2011-03-01T13:04:00.003-05:00

We just received the Spring 2011 issue of Atomic Ranch, and as usual, it's chock full o' midcentury goodness!

Featuring stories on a Palm Springs modern house, a profile of the Eames duo and their legacy of good design, modern landscaping ideas for people with pets, and lots of design inspiration.

So come by the shop and pick up your copy before we're all out. And while you're here, we still have a few issues of the last Modernism Magazine left too.

See you at the store!

Friends of Ethel

2011-02-26T13:21:00.005-05:00

From time to time we like to add blogs and websites to the Ethel blogroll. Ethel has a lot of friends in the design community, and she likes to share their creative stories with you. Today we added the website for Jerome Markson, one of Toronto's original Modernist architects, as well as a link to the Heritage Toronto website. Heritage doesn't always mean gingerbread trim and crown moulding, and Toronto hasn't always had the best track record for preservation of Modernism, so we hope that if you are a mid century fan, you'll give these sites a read.

We also added links to the Doll Factory website. The Doll Factory is a fabulous store here in Leslieville (just across the street from Ethel), which opened in 2006 by Toronto dress designers Damzels in this Dress. This flagship store features cocktail to day wear and everything in between, all with a cheeky retro twist. It's exactly the kind of store Ethel would shop in!

We also added links to a few of our favourite housebloggers, such as Door 16, and cool 50's lampshade company Meteor Lights as well as a link to our favourite upholsterer Princess Perfect.

So check out the links, and if you're in the neighborhood, we'll see you at the store!

Ethel's Design Diner

2011-02-25T16:32:00.006-05:00

As we've hinted in the past, Ethel is not only a fabulous vintage furniture, lighting and accessories shop, we also offer interior design consulting too. We've been building our client base and will be posting some before and after shots of some our projects, as soon as there are "after"shots to post!

Anyway, we've been working on a Design Diner menu with our friends at Viva & Co, that will that detail the services we offer, and allow our customers to get more familiar with what we can do for them. It will be set up menu style, with Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner options.

Here are the two options for the cover. We love them both but would love to hear feedback from our customers on which one they feel best embodies the "spirit of Ethel".

Option one is a classic diner style sign on a teal background.

Option two has a textured background with a more formal font style.

Which one do you like? Let us know.

Also, since the interior design side of things has ramped up, we've been looking to improve our workspace here at the store. We've been looking for a vintage cash desk that has desk work space, as well as enough storage to allow for all the design tools we need to do our job. Sure, we could design something brand new and have it built, but we like the challenge of finding something vintage and giving it a new lease on life. It's what Ethel is all about. So anyone out there has a lead on some groovy used store fixtures or even a big ole MadMen style reception desk, let us know. You'll be doing Ethel a favour and she'll repay you with good karma and a big store discount!
See you at the store!

Project Clear Out continues.......

2011-02-16T13:07:00.007-05:00

Since we've designated February "Project Clear Out" month, we have another DIY dream for our customers.
Today we have some vintage 50's retail display shelving, (and yes, that is sections of the vintage bowling seating you see next to it..)

9 shelves to be exact, finished in a fabulous industrial teal green metallic powdercoat with deco style brass railing around the front and sides. These shelves were originally purchased at the famous King Sol's on Queen West, and were originally meant to hang on an angle for product display. They're 13" deep by 47" long and are in great shape considering their age (the photos show a lot of dust but that's easily taken care of).
$10 each or $75 for the lot. Pick up only, but don't worry, they're not heavy.
These would look fabulous in a kitchen reno to hold your vintage Fireking or Fiestaware, or a groovy loft space to hold your art glass or retro tin toy collection. Or you could use the railing to recreate that famous scene from the movie Titanic with your Jack & Rose Barbie dolls...that's your business!
You may ask why we aren't using these in the store, and while we do love them, we'd rather pass the project onto you.
Come by the store and have a look, and don't forget to ask about what other "projects" we have for sale.
See you at the store!

Bowlerama!

2011-02-09T16:35:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our February Project Clean-out theme, we have another fabulous deal for sale for our DIY savvy customers.

Today we have some vintage bowling alley seating.

In the classic two toned turquoise and white heavy duty fiberglass, this bowling seating would be perfect for your front hall, backyard patio or basement bowling alley.

There's six sections altogether, three in white and three in turquoise. Three are bolted together with legs making a three seater bench, two more sections are bolted together with a central leg, and a single white seat is on it's own. On the end of the three seater, there's a Brunswick Bowling embossed nameplate, so you know this is legit!

Right now we have the loose seats propped up with spare chair bases, but with a few nuts and bolts you could put together a 6 seater bench, or keep the three seater bench and make a tree swing out the rest! It's up to you.

This set is vintage so there is some wear on the fiberglass but keep in mind, there's been a lot of bowlers butts on these seats so they've held up remarkably well. Also, we think some of it was used outside, hence the corrosion on one set of the legs and the staining on some of the seats.

The entire set is priced at $250.

UPDATE: Bowling seating has sold!

We also have a selection of vintage bowling trophies to impress your friends, and bowling themed cocktailware for the after-bowling get together.

Come by the store and check it out.
See you at the store!

DIY Project of the day

2011-02-03T16:46:00.008-05:00

As promised, we're going to be posting a few "projects" for sale every week. These are things that we've bought for the store and then realized they need a little more work than we have the time or resources for. In other words, DIY deals for our customers!

Today we have a set of four kitschy 50's chrome dinette chairs.

Well, at least there's seats and backs for four chairs but only two chairs with the chrome frames.
Isn't the vintage vinyl with the metallic fleck spectacular? It's so kitschy, we almost wish Ethel had a diner that we could use these in!

Anyway, the chrome frame is not an uncommon frame style so finding frames with less than stellar upholstery to switch out should be no problem.
One of the loose backs has some damage, but this would be covered by the back supports of the frame, once you've found one.

The entire set (two complete chairs and seats and backs for two more) is priced at $200 and would be perfect for your kitschy kitchen!

UPDATE: Chair set has sold!

Stay tuned for more projects.

See you at the store!

More projects on the way!

2011-02-01T14:21:00.001-05:00

We've had such good response to our Project sale, that we'll be posting a few more items later today. Remember, sweat equity isn't just for your house!

See you at the store!

Project Sale!

2011-01-30T15:03:00.008-05:00

When looking for furniture for the store, sometimes we find a deal we can't pass up, and once it's in the store, we wish we had passed it up! We're talking about those pieces that end up projects. Right now we have more of these than we have room for, so if you're handy and are looking for a good deal and aren't afraid of a challenge, then come by the store.

We have this cute pair of vintage teacup chairs that are in need of a good upholstery job, and a new coat of paint.

We love the shape and think they're oh so modern, but we just don't have the time to work on them. They're priced at $100 each or $150 for the pair.

UPDATE: The teacup chairs have sold

If you like the chairs, then you'll love this Saarinen style coffee table base.

The paint is in great shape, all it needs is a new top. You could salvage a piece of marble, or maybe a nice peice of dayglo laminate. This baby is ripe for customizing! $75 for the base and it's yours.

If you're not afraid of a little sewing, then you'll love this LeCorbusier Grand Confort loveseat and matching two chairs (chairs not shown).

The cushions are in great shape, they just need new covers, as these ones are sun faded and worn out. Also, the frame and webbing are in good shape, but the frame could use a paint job. All three pieces for $400.

UPDATE: LeCorbusier love seat and chairs have sold!

We also have a few more projects in the basement, like the 60's walnut four chair dining set that needs refinishing and reupholstery and lamps that need lampshades. If you're brave enough, we'll take you down there to see yourself!

So come by the store and help us make room for new furniture, that won't need so much work!
See you at the store!

Vintage AND Modern

2011-01-29T15:02:00.008-05:00

Vintage doesn't always mean modern. And modern can look vintage. There's "mid century modern" and there's "mid century modest". Ethel tries to stay on the modern side of things, but sometimes we find something that isn't strictly "modern" but is darling and vintage.

Look at this poodle card! Kitschy 50's and sooo not modern, but soooo vintage!

He's part of this line of vintage greeting cards.

The top row are vintage 1950's diecut cards, and while they're not slick MadMen modern, they are adorable and would be perfect for the Donna Reed in your life. They're vintage deadstock (meaning they've never been used) and are priced at $6 each, and of course, there's limited quantities.

Fast forward 20 years, and you have the 70's stylings of the cards on the second row. Straight out of the disco decade, these cards are cute in their own way, but are definitely a different vibe than the 50's kitsch above. These are $4 each, and again, limited quantities.

Then we have something that is sooo totally modern, yet is very vintage.
This classic Saarinen marble topped dining table is at least 30 years old, yet looks right out of the pages of Dwell magazine. It's the 35.75" diameter version and was originally introduced in 1956 as part of the Saarinen Collection of dining and low tables for Knoll. This vintage modern version is priced at $1800 and would be perfect for your slick modern abode!

UPDATE: The Saarinen table has sold!

Anyway, remember...vintage isn't always modern, but is usually better than what's modern and not vintage.
See you at the store!

Upside-down Ethel

2011-01-26T10:41:00.003-05:00

Things have been all over the place at the store lately. With our big move (not Ethel, she's staying put), I've been back and forth between the store and the new condo, bringing furniture in, and moving furniture out, and as a result it's getting messy in here. But sometimes messy works...at least that's what we keep telling ourselves!

Also, we have a student filming in the store today for her thesis, which is about the relationships we have with objects from the past, specifically the mid century period. Her name is Nicole and she's majoring in communication at Ryerson.

We love selling vintage furniture, but we also like to educate people about it so we think this is a great opportunity to talk about why this period of design appeals to us so much. She'll be done by early afternoon, so feel free to drop by the store afterwards.

See you at the store!

Our move is Ethel's gain

2011-01-13T18:14:00.007-05:00

Well, as we said in the last post, we're busy getting ready to move. This means a lot of our personal collection of fabulous vintage furniture is making it into the store.

Check out this vintage vinyl sectional. The orange vinyl is in great shape and the two pieces are very comfortable. It's priced at $800 for the set.

They did say orange is the colour for 2011.

Update: the sectional sofa has sold!

Also coming in is our famous cocktail tiki bar.

This bar is freestanding, over 9' long, and comes with four matching barstools.The floating top is black laminate and is edged with stripes of orange and white glass mosaic tile. The base cabinet has grasscloth on the front face and the interior cabinets are finished in orange to match the orange tile. It even has it's own tiki holding up one end. It's been featured in an Apartment Therapy house tour, the Globe and Mail and in a House Proud segment on CBC's Stephen & Chris show. It's priced at $1500 and is perfect for that swingin' bachelor pad or groovy basement lounge. The overhead lighting is not included as it's staying with the house.

There's a lot more to come so come by the store to check it out.
See you at the store!

Ethel's day off

2011-01-04T12:13:00.004-05:00

If you've dropped by the store today, (Tuesday January 4th), you'll know that we're not open today. It's for a good reason though. I'm at home, packing in preparation for our big move. Don't panic, Ethel is staying put, but we sold our house and are moving downtown in two weeks and there's a lot to pack!

If you have any questions at all that need to be answered before tomorrow, please send us an email and we'll do our best to get back to you.

Ethel will be open tomorrow (Wednesday January 5th) as usual.

See you at the store!

Orange is sooo 2011

2011-01-02T16:22:00.004-05:00

We keep hearing that orange is the big colour for 2011. Well, I guess we're ahead of the times here at Ethel as we've ALWAYS loved orange! It was Frank Sinatra's favourite colour, you know!

Anyway, we have a few pieces around the store in this colour, and we've put a few on sale.

Remember this gorgeous two seater?

It's now $900, down from $1295. It's been all refinished with new cushions. We love the orange and blue together.

We also have lots of orange art glass and west german pottery, along with some orange kitchen plastic and textiles, so come by the store and get your orange on!

See you at the store!

Boxing Day Sale

2010-12-28T14:05:00.004-05:00

Since the last thing we want to do is pack up Christmas stuff (we have enough to do at home!) Ethel is taking 25% off all remaining holiday merchandise. Stock up on vintage ornaments, boxed Whigby cards and ornaments, handmade ceramic JoyPottery ornaments, vintage Christmas annuals, and vintage Christmas themed servingware.

Also, come by the store to see what else is on sale. Lots of new furniture is coming in January but we need to maker room first!

See you at the store!

Christmas Holidays at Ethel

2010-12-24T15:44:00.002-05:00

Well, it's Christmas Eve and we've decided to close early, so we can be with friends and family. Ethel will be closed December 25th, 26th and 27th and we'll be back December 28th.

We hope you all have a fabulous Christmas with lots of cheer and, of course, eggnog!

Merry Christmas!

The new issue of Modernism Magazine is here!

2010-12-19T13:25:00.002-05:00

We just got in the Winter 2010/11 issue of Modernism Magazine, just in time for Christmas! With feature articles on Richard Neutra in Europe, the Finn Juhl revival, fabulous Fifties fabrics and collecting vintage jewellery (a favourite pastime of Ethel's), this magazine makes for a great read while drinking eggnog by the fire, or a hostess gift for the modernista in your life.

And if you haven't picked up your Fall issue, we have a few of those left too.

See you at the store!

Whigby saves Christmas!

2010-12-17T17:59:00.005-05:00

For those of you who've been asking about the Whigby Christmas ornaments, we just got an emergency order in, along with more of their very popular boxed sets of Christmas cards. Come and get them while you can!

See you at the store!

Furniture under the tree

2010-12-16T15:13:00.014-05:00

Christmas is just over a week away and while Ethel should be shopping for her loved ones (including me!), she keeps buying furniture for the store.

Check out this late 60’s custom Spanner dining table with 11 chairs.

As some of you may remember, we had an early Ruspan dining set in the store back in the spring (see the “Spanner in the Store” post under April 2010 on the right) but you may not know that after those early lines, Spanner Products went on to do more Scandinavian inspired designs. This table is 8 feet long, features a racetrack top with additional glass top for a wider width and length, and the 11 chairs are in fantastic condition. The table is priced at $495 and the chairs are $150 each or $1000 for the set.

This buffet came with the Spanner set, but we suspect it’s a custom job and not a Spanner piece.

It’s 7 1/2’ long and features sliding doors and four pull out drawers behind the middle drawer. It’s priced at $895 and would be perfect for holding all your vintage dishes!

UPDATE: Buffet has sold!

This pair of 70’s tub chairs have their original white chenille upholstery and are priced at $395 each or $695 for the pair. They’d be perfect in a rec room or a lounge-y mod bachelor pad.

UPDATE: One chair and ottoman has sold...one chair left

UPDATE: Second chair has sold!

This chrome framed lounge chair has the original brown vinyl upholstery and is the perfect height for either playing video games on your Xbox or reading a good book. Priced at $150, it’s a steal.

UPDATE: Lounge chair has sold

If you’re just in the market for a little Christmas cheer, then pick up a handmade ceramic ornament from JoyPottery.
Priced at $16 each, these are a great addition to your Christmas tree or as a hostess gift. Give the gift of handmade!

See you at the store!