A Toronto native, Kaylee Giffin is a lifestyle blogger and founder of www.theblondielocks.com. Recently we helped her refresh her living room to create an airy ambiance by mixing contemporary pieces with the organic beauty of wood.
1. What do you like about your neighbourhood?
We live in the east end of downtown Toronto, away from a lot of the hustle and bustle of the city’s core. Although there are still so many things to do and see (and eat) in our neighbourhood, I feel such a sense of calmness and community in our area, which I love so much.
2. Can you tell us one hidden 'gem' in your neighbourhood that you like to frequent?
If I tell you that then it won't be a hidden gem any more, haha! Just kidding! It may not be considered a hidden gem but I absolutely love hanging out in the Distillery District, especially in the summer when it is hot and sunny. Margaritas and guac on the patio at El Catrin is a summer ritual. Shopping for clothes and bath & body at Blossom Lounge and grabbing a real fruit popsicle from Maisonette afterwards is the best!
3. Why did you choose to makeover your living room? Why did you choose to include Artemano in the makeover process?
We chose the living room to be made over because our current living room was a complete disaster, haha! My boyfriend and I moved in together 5 years ago when we were in college, and at the time we obviously didn't have the budget or time to put into creating a home. We have since moved multiple times, lugging our massive sectional with us to each place. We also got a dog (Milo) who loved the top of the couch and put a bit of a sink hole in it. This year it was time for a big change for us and our living room, and Artemano was the perfect fit. We chose to include Artemano in our makeover process because of the unique history and craftsmanship that goes into each and every piece of furniture, especially the wood. Our stump and chairs are made out of train track wood from Southeast Asia, and it truly gives me the best kind of chills to think about the history in our living room now. I love the idea of repurposing old to make new, and I am trying hard to live by that mantra in my daily life.
4. What do you think Artemano has added to your living space and your daily life?
Like I mentioned above, Artemano has added such history and character to our living room that I don't feel we could have found anywhere else. Since I often work from home, my daily life has changed drastically because each and every day I go downstairs to work I feel completely inspired by my surroundings in our new living room.
5. If you could add another Artemano piece to your home, what would you choose?
Because we can always use extra seating I would add one of Artemano’s wool top stools...they are so unique!
6. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Honestly, as long as I'm with Jamie and Milo I'd be happy to live anywhere...but Tuscany looks pretty charming.
