Everything to Know About Industrial Air Conditioning

We often discuss decor and design on the blog, but we usually focus on the home front. This allows our readers to find inspiration to help create the perfect layout for their interiors and exteriors. But what about those looking for ideas for their business? When it comes to businesses, truth be told the appearance of your retail space plays a very important role in attracting customers. Whether it's a restaurant, a café or a store, having a look that stands out will get you a lot of attention on social media as well as on decor blogs. In medium-sized cities like Calgary, you’ll find a nice selection of boutiques and cafes, each more original than the next. This is why we’ve put together this list of 10 shops that could be featured in magazines! Renovations and commercial design: 5 Calgary stores worthy of magazines 1- Distilled Beauty Bar If you’re familiar with the city of Calgary, then you may already know about this high-end salon and espresso bar. Located in the Marda Loop district, Distilled Beauty Bar was created as a place for people to gather and pamper themselves. The interior of Distilled is elegant, cozy and inviting, and was designed by Canadian interior designer Nam Dang-Mitchell. It features exposed ceilings and brick, gorgeous polished concrete flooring and mid-century light fixtures. We’d love to spend an afternoon here, relaxing with a cup of coffee or two! 2- Plant Plant is on a mission to connect the folks of Calgary with the natural world. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of indoor and outdoor plants, terrariums and vessels as well as workshops. The space itself is in a 300 square foot converted garage, offering a truly unique spot with plenty of natural light, for the array of plants. Beautiful open-concept shelving showcase the wares, as well as black painted brick walls to offer a dramatic backdrop. Did we mention that Plant also has two shop dogs? 3- Monogram cafe Starting as a pop-up cafe and making its way into two locations including one in the downtown core of Calgary, Monogram knows a thing or two about coffee. The cafe is an energetic, lively place with an interior to match. The space has a beautiful simplicity with painted white brick walls and softwood accents including rustic benches and tables as well as a stunning floor. This bright space acts as a community hub. 4- Untitled Champagne Lounge Untitled Champagne Lounge could only be described as extravagant. The interior of this space is gaudy and dark, with dark walls, floors, and a long leather booth that stretches the length of the wall. An exposed brick wall keeps things down-to-earth, while gold accents and over-the-top light fixtures transport you to another century. 5- The Next Page The Next Page is an adorable bookshop selling both new and used books in Calgary’s Inglewood area. The space offers workshops and readings, boasting a beautiful interior for the community to gather in. With floor-to-ceiling books, hardwood floors, and the classic sliding ladder that all library lovers dream of, The Next Page is fun, warm and welcoming with a magical vibe indeed. They also have a “pay-what-you-can” cafe, which we love the idea of!

Running a commercial space takes a lot of work. For those managing a restaurant, bar, storefront, office, community organization or another venue with plenty of moving parts, it can be challenging to keep everything in smooth operation. Take the issue of noise as an example, between the constant hum and buzz of street traffic, the sounds of nature or humans in competition with the many noises coming from inside your venue, you might be overwhelmed. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to soundproof doors and windows of a commercial space to control the sound moving inwards. So, if you’re looking for the best soundproofing solution for your specific commercial space, you’ve come to the right place. This article will look at the various options for door and window soundproofing, as well as some models on the market you may take interest in purchasing. Windows and doors for commercial spaces: soundproofing 101 source: unsplash Benefits of soundproofing You might not realize the many benefits of soundproofing upfront, but there is plenty of research on the relationship between soundproofing and productivity. Thus, if you’re running a business and you want your staff members or coworkers to be in tip-top shape, we’d suggest you consider the many benefits of soundproofing: Productivity: Reducing unwanted noise and distractions can have everyone working more efficiently. Reduce stress levels: For patrons of your establishment as well as those working, functional noise levels and a lack of competing sounds will make things much more comfortable. Property value: Having proper soundproofing in place will increase property value, as real estate in noisy locations often has a hard time selling. Comfortability: Let’s be honest, a restaurant, bar, office space or venue with controlled noise levels will be far more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone inside. Now, let's look at the soundproofing measures you can take when it comes to the doors and windows in your commercial space! Looking for experts to soundproof your doors and windows? Fill out the form so that we can put you in contact with certified contractors from our network Window soundproofing source: unsplash As we mentioned in our introduction, noise can come from internal as well as external sources. Trying to combat both of these is important for making sure your commercial space doesn’t have to deal with a pesky noise complaint or deal with unhappy coworkers, clients or customers. If your office, restaurant or other venture is located close to a busy street, the noise created by traffic, sirens, car alarms can be distracting. Noise intrusion for those in city centers or close to transportation corridors can be significantly worse. Studies have shown that the majority of exterior noises travel in through as well as out of the windows. Not only this, but a large portion of this noise is travelling through incorrectly applied or ageing window seals. There are many different steps that you can take when it comes to making sure the windows in your commercial venue are far more soundproof. The option you choose will likely come down to the size of your windows, the area in which they are placed as well as your overall budget. There are many options when it comes to soundproofing in a commercial space and these are as follows: Replacing your current window glass with specially-made noise reduction glass; Replacing both the frame and the glass with soundproof windows, which includes frames and sealing materials; Adding a second pane of glass or secondary glazing, which will involve adding an extra layer of glass and is the lowest cost option. Commercial venue owners may choose to install a second window over the existing one, as this is one of the most effective ways to combat excessive noise pollution while also being the most cost-effective solution. The second window acts as a barrier to noise in three ways: the type of material used to make the pane, the air between the original pane and the newly installed one and the sealant. The window material is that of laminated glass specifically created to dampen the vibrations of sound. Secondly, the mentioned airspace between windows is usually a gap between 2-4 inches, and it works by isolating the window frame from external vibrations trying to make their way inside. Finally, this process involves high powered seals which prevent sound leaks and help reduce the glass vibrations. If you opt for one of the other options, such as replacing windows completely or just the glass pane itself, you’ll be looking at a bigger dent in your soundproofing budget. For specific details regarding soundproofing windows, check out our lengthy article on the subject. Although it isn’t commercial space specific, it offers plenty of relevant information on the process of window soundproofing. We should mention that if your soundproofing issue isn’t too serious and you’re looking for some simpler preventative measures, you may try working with a soundproofing sealant to start. An acoustic sealant or insulation tape will not have a huge impact on noise reduction but will definitely may a difference. Now, in contrast, if your soundproofing needs are quite serious, aside from the windows themselves, it’s important for the surrounding area aka the walls to be soundproof. There are a number of different measures to take, but everything should begin with proper insulation. Make sure the walls in your commercial venue have been properly insulated, as this will play a huge role in the way that sound travels as well as the comfortability of the space. Adding additional soundproofing including acoustic panels or soundproofing tape should come only after your walls have been insulated. Door soundproofing source: unsplash Doorway soundproofing will require a few steps that are pretty straightforward. In a similar way to window soundproofing methods, the first place to consider when soundproofing your doors is the cracks and gaps in areas that surround them. These need to be correctly sealed and as with windows, you could use acoustic sealant or tape. Seal all gaps or remove and replace the current sealant. This step won’t have a huge impact on the way that noise and sound travels, but will make a slight difference. Another measure that might be better left for offices or storefronts is door gaskets. Unfortunately, for restaurants and bars these might not be a feature attractive enough to include alongside your decor but if you can find some that work with your venue, go for it. Gaskets work in a similar way to weatherstripping tape as the main purpose is to seal gaps at the jambs and head of your doors. If you’re dealing with a patio door, which is common when it comes to venues such as bars and restaurants, you’ll need to take soundproofing measures seriously. Sliding glass doors are generally made with noticeably thinner glass and frame materials. Additionally, since the doors are sliding, it’s difficult to place materials directly on them. As with a single-pane door, make sure to begin by sealing any noticeable gaps or cracks in the doorway or around the frame. Thick curtains can work to dampen sound, but again may not be the most aesthetically-pleasing option for all commercial ventures. Laminated glass doors are an option, and will reduce exterior noise from travelling indoors quite well. Of course, the cost of this upfront might be what deters business owners initially. However, it’s important to consider the long-term impact of working with regular patio doors versus ones who have been equipped with soundproofing abilities. For more information on the best materials to use for soundproofing, make sure to read our article 10 Best Soundproofing Materials.

Are you thinking about jumpstarting a renovation project in a commercial space? If so, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ve rallied a bunch of helpful information to guide you throughout your project and help you make the right decisions. Once you’ve read this article, you should have a realistic idea as to what this type of project entails and the timeframe needed to complete the work. Let’s clear something up right off the bat: You’ll need to work with a contractor. In Quebec, the law requires that any commercial space renovation project be carried out by a contractor with a valid CCQ certificate. Elsewhere in Canada, the rules vary from one province to the next, so it’s best to inquire with local authorities on the matter. In any case, by default, a specialized commercial general contractor will be able to make your project a reality. BEFORE JUMPSTARTING THE WORK The first thing you need is a detailed project outline. Make a note of your expectations, needs, and that of others that’ll occupy the space (employees, clients, guests). Are you starting from scratch or is there already a general layout in place from which you’ll work? For example, if the space is already fitted with an electrical system and plumbing, it’ll be a game-changer, especially if you’re looking to install a commercial kitchen. Try to make a list of things you think you’ll need to do. This list will then be fine-tuned once you begin working with contractors and other experts like designers, engineers, and architects. Retail commercial space WHAT’S CONSIDERED AS A COMMERCIAL RENOVATION PROJECT? When using the term “commercial” renovation or construction, we’re setting it apart from terms such as residential or industrial renovation. In fact, if you’ve already amassed quite a familiarity with home renovations, you’ll quickly realize that commercial space transformations are quite different. So, what’s considered a commercial renovation or construction? Here’s a short list of the main spaces concerned: Coffee shop; Grocery store, vegetable/fruit market, supermarket; Restaurant (and restaurant kitchens); Bar; Retail space; Clinic (dental, health, veterinary, medical); Open-plan office; Daycare or school; Tourist accommodation; Multi-purpose commercial building. Example of the interior design of a food market KEYWORDS FOR COMMERCIAL RENOVATION OR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS To help with your initial brainstorming session, we’ve selected three words that define most commercial development projects. The latter can be applied to clinics, daycares, restaurants, and any other example of space above-mentioned. Functionality When the space in question is meant to welcome clients, patients, or employees (or all three), one of the project’s main objectives is to create a practical layout. Therefore, you have to think about the use of space to make effective decisions. Ergonomics Brainstorming as to the ergonomics of a workspace is especially important to ensure employees and others can make use of the space safely. This concept will influence where each object (furniture, decor, storage) is placed. The ergonomics of a space can also branch out to materials and lighting, therefore, it’ll naturally have an influence over your choices. Check out this article to learn more about the concept of ergonomics. This article focuses on the different rooms in a home, but most of the tips detailed can also be applied to commercial spaces. Interior Design: How to Make Interior Spaces More Ergonomic Aesthetics Lastly, take some time to ponder over the aesthetic aspect of the project. This means the decor, lighting, colours, and materials that you’ll select, most likely with the help of an interior decorator or designer. It’s all the more important if the space in question is visited by clients and guests, however, bear in mind that an aesthetically decorated space will be more enjoyable for employees. Example of a lobby in a mixed-use commercial building HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR NEEDS Continuing along the same lines, and by that, we mean putting together a project’s to-do list. To do so, we’ve devised a few questions to better grasp your needs with respect to the results of the transformation. QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF WHEN PLANNING A COMMERCIAL RENOVATION OR CONSTRUCTION PROJECT What’s my allotted budget for this commercial space renovation or construction project? First off, jot down a number that appears realistic and attainable. Even if you don’t have a clue as to what an actual figure for this type of project resembles. Write down a ballpark number and then venture out to confront reality by doing a few internet searches. You might be able to find examples of similar projects, with a price point or price range. Subsequently, it’s time to get quotes from prospective contractors to get a better idea of a real budget devoted to the work. This’ll allow you to see whether your ideas are realistic or if you have to rethink your plans. Lastly, note that if you’re working with an interior designer, they’ll be able to suggest various ideas based on your budget. At your request, they can devise more budget-friendly, standard, or high-end plans. With these, you can choose which overlaps both your needs and budget. However, you can still peruse this article that’ll help you estimate the costs of certain office renovation projects: Commercial Renovations: Office Prices. What does the project entail? When it comes to the famous to-do list, you should really make a rough draft first, prior to speaking with the contractors and other commercial remodelling experts. As you’re not the specialist here, it’s likely that you’ll forget some things, but that doesn’t really matter at this stage. First, you need a general idea of what needs to be done. Here’s a list of examples: Improve soundproofing; Install new flooring (remove current); Replace windows; Paint walls; Install light fixtures; Remove partition walls (and add glass partitions instead); Install ventilation system; Decorate space. What about the space’s overall aesthetic aspect? It’s time to peruse Pinterest and other home architecture and decor websites to gather some ideas! Here are a few websites to check out for a dose of inspiration: Archdaily Azure Côté Maison (French only) Following your search, you can discuss your ideas with the architect or interior designer with which you’ll be working. We also have another related article featured on our blog that could be helpful: Renovation and Commercial Design: 10 Montreal Businesses Example of an open-plan office layout If you’re dealing with an office, do you rather an open concept versus a traditional layout? This question is super important if your project involves an office layout. Open-concept offices are all the rage right now. Naturally, they have numerous advantages, as well as a few downsides that will shape your decision. A few pros and cons of an open-plan office: Pros: Open-concept offices stimulate teamwork. Layout is more spacious. Cheaper to build. Cons: Can deter productivity, as distractions are more frequent. The space can be quite boisterous at times. Some introverted employees might not feel comfortable in open-concept spaces. To ponder on the question a bit more, check out this article: All About the Open-Concept Office Cook working in a professional kitchen If it’s a restaurant-related project, will the kitchen be open or closed? Formerly, everything and anything that happened in a restaurant’s kitchen was concealed from prying eyes. Getting a glimpse into the magic or less noteworthy moments that happened during a shift was out of the question. As such, closed-concept kitchens were standard, especially in high-end restaurants. Over the years, the concept behind a high-end kitchen was revamped and a lot of chefs wanted to cultivate a dialogue with their clients by tearing down the walls between the kitchen and the dining area. It’s a whole new ambiance that inevitably alters the diner’s experience, combining both positive and negative aspects, that’ll influence you when it comes to choosing what’ll work best. Here are some pros and cons of open-concept kitchens: Pros: Kitchen staff can see clients enjoying their meals. Clients are guaranteed a clean & tidy kitchen. Overall experience is entertaining to clients. Smells coming from the kitchen can be very enticing. Cons: Kitchen staff must be on the ball, as there are more distractions. The restaurant can become rather loud as clients will speak louder to drown out the noise from the kitchen. Clients might find it less fancy. Example of a private office Are you looking for experts for your commercial renovation project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! How much time will the work take? Post-budget, this is THE question, but one that’s difficult to answer. The duration of the work and the overall process surrounding the project will depend on a whole lot of factors. Hence, it’s not easy to get a realistic timeframe. Depending on the scope of the project, labour availability, and material and permit reception, the project could take a few days or just as likely spread out over the course of a few months. Here’s a list of factors that could influence the duration of the work: Amount of time dedicated to making plans; Getting permits; Complexity of work; Calling in numerous experts from various fields (conforming to their schedules); If the space isn’t yet designed for the eventual services (plumbing, electricity, hygiene/sanitation regulations). While pondering over the project, take note of the ideal timeline. Then, when discussing it with the contractor, it’ll allow you to determine whether or not it’s manageable. You’ll also have to factor in that some unpredictable delays may occur, so if you absolutely need to occupy the space by a certain date, jumpstart the process as soon as possible to avoid any delays that’ll end up penalizing you. Will I need to temporarily close the business during renovations? If your business is located street-side and offers in-person services, you’ll be all the more anxiously awaiting the work to be completed, since the longer your business is inoperable, the more costly it becomes. For large-scale projects, you may need to completely close the area for a few days, maybe even a few weeks. Bear this in mind when completing the budgeting phase of your project as well as its ideal timeline. In the meantime, you may also have to lay off some employees or reassign them to other duties when possible. Some entrepreneurs will come up with temporary solutions, such as renting an office space for the duration of the work (which implies everything in terms of adapting and procedures) or turn to other sorts of services (delivery or teleconferences with clients). Having already pondered various ways to keep the business functional during the work, you’ll avoid dealing with major stresses should certain things not end up as planned. Here’s an example to highlight the above-mentioned: A bakery local to my neighbourhood decided to vacate its former location to move into a friendlier area. However, the space they chose to rent wasn’t ready to house this type of business, so they had to go through extensive transformation renovations. Due to issues encountered in receiving materials and supplies and lack of labour, the work is taking a lot longer than anticipated. In the meantime, they’re offering the possibility of ordering pastries online for in-person pick-up in a section of the bakery that’s already renovated. That way, their business remains publicly active, enables some employees to work, and money keeps coming in while the renovations are being completed. Example of a bar’s interior layout WHAT KIND OF EXPERTS CAN CARRY OUT COMMERCIAL RENOVATIONS? In Quebec, commercial construction and remodelling work is highly regulated. All persons involved with such a worksite must hold a valid CCQ (Commission de la construction du Québec) certificate at the time the work is taking place, as well as an RBQ license relevant to the work planned. In other words, you can’t put together your commercial space with simply the help of a few trusted, albeit handy friends. The same applies to small renovation work such as painting or patching up small holes. The law is strict and inspectors are vigilant. However, should you try your luck, you risk heavy fines. Check out this article to learn more about the CCQ. (French only) In other Canadian provinces, the laws regulating who can carry out work aren’t as clear-cut. To stay on top of things, check out your province’s Construction Code and consult renovation experts. They’ll be able to help you work in accordance with the law. As a side note, bear in mind that the contractors with whom you’re working on your renovation project are professionals that must absolutely adhere to a high-value insurance policy. With commercial-like renovations, we’re generally referring to insurance policies with a coverage of 2 million dollars in value. However, for commercial space renovations, it’s best to ensure that the contractors have opted for a higher-value coverage. Example of a commercial space layout GENERAL OR SPECIALIZED CONTRACTORS For a large-scale project, you’ll most likely need to hire multiple tradespersons. Now, the question is whether you want to entrust the project’s management to a general contractor (CCQ-certified if in Quebec) or to specialized contractors with whom you’ll deal yourself. Dealing with a team of contractors is a lot of work, more so when dealing with a large-scale project. That’s why you really need to carefully consider this question. Note that you can also assign management duties to an interior designer or architect, as most of them offer said service. What’s the difference between a general and a specialized contractor? To sum it up, a general contractor is authorized to complete numerous tasks and can supervise other contractors. On the other hand, a specialized contractor is qualified to carry out certain tasks but cannot intervene in areas beyond their expertise. This article could help you make up your mind on the matter and better understand the role of a general contractor, especially when it comes to a commercial renovation or remodelling project: Why Hire a General Contractor for Your Renovation Project? And this article will help you choose the right contractor: Commercial Renovation Projects: Criteria to Find the Right Contractor Example of a daycare layout WORKING WITH AN ARCHITECT OR INTERIOR DESIGNER FOR A COMMERCIAL RENOVATION As soon as it involves a large-scale commercial construction or remodelling project, it’s highly recommended to work with an expert in design. You’re likely to need blueprints to obtain the necessary permits, and these plans can’t be hand drawn on the corner of a napkin. Team up with an architect (or architectural technologist), an interior designer and/or an engineer to come up with renovation blueprints. You can even ask the expert (except the engineer) to manage to project from start to finish, as many of them offer “turnkey” services. When it comes to an interior designer, they’ll also help you choose your interior layout (and exterior if needed), shop around for select furniture pieces, pick out materials, and complete numerous other project-related tasks. The Difference Between an Architect and an Architectural Technologist Meeting room layout in commercial space DO YOU NEED A WORK PERMIT FOR A COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION OR REMODELLING PROJECT? You absolutely need to get construction permits prior to starting any work-related aspects of your commercial construction project. If you work without permits, city inspectors can request you to stop work immediately, which will lead to extensive delays and could possibly halt the project altogether. It’s not a risk worth taking. Inquire with your municipality to know what type of permit is required. The staff responsible for issuing permits will be able to tell you what kind of permit is needed for the type of work you’re planning. Then, you’ll need to put together a file and send forth a request. Permit delays can vary depending on the type of project, the time of year, and the complexity of the work. The moral of the story: Don’t wait too long before getting your permit. You can also ask your general contractor or other experts you’re working with for help with this matter. They might have a few tips to put together a file that’ll favour a positive response from the authorities in question. Hotel lobby decor and interior design Other articles to read regarding commercial remodelling We have some other articles that might be of interest to you regarding this new project you're mulling over. Here they are: Window & Door Soundproofing Techniques for Commercial Buildings 10 Renovation Projects to Set Up an Office Renovating a Restaurant: Suggestions and Tips CHECKLIST: KEY STEPS IN A COMMERCIAL RENOVATION PROJECT Click here to access the PDF version.

Oftentimes on the blog, we discuss decor and design trends but we usually focus on the home front. This allows our readers to find inspiration to create the perfect layout for their interiors and exteriors. But what about those looking for ideas for their business? When it comes to businesses, truth be told the appearance of your retail space plays a very important role in attracting and enticing long-term customers. Whether it's a restaurant, a café or a store, having a look that stands out will get you a lot of attention on social media as well as on decor blogs. In the larger Canadian cities, like the metropolis of Toronto, you’ll find a large selection of boutiques and cafes, each more original than the next. This is why we’ve put together a list of 6 shops that could be featured in magazines in Toronto’s West End. Renovations and commercial design: 6 Toronto East-End businesses worthy of magazines 1- Black Rooster Decor Black Rooster Decor started online but is now situated in the upscale Leslieville neighbourhood of Toronto’s east end. This store may look small from the outside, but indoors it packs a punch. The showroom is a mini decor emporium, with an array of unique and stylish pieces for any home. The interior of Black Rooster is glossy and elegant, with white walls that keep it bright and a wide range of rotating home decor from around the world on display, you’re sure to find some excitement in this space! 2- Marvel Coffee Marvel indeed; with two locations in the Danforth area, Marvel is a swanky spot for a hot cup or a delicious snack. The marble countertops and tables may be in opposition to the currently-trending coffee shop world, mainly occupied by exposed brick walls and wood. Nonetheless, this space’s high ceilings and intricate light fixtures are inviting. The room is small, but that keeps things inside cozy. 3- Tori’s Bakeshop With a plethora of vegan bakeries in Toronto, it can be difficult to stand out. But Tori’s Bakeshop in the Beaches knows how to get noticed. From the outside, Tori’s may appear modest, but its interior is reminiscent of a bakeshop from a fairy tale or a fantasy novel. With charming mint green accents, open concept shelving and giant whisk-light fixtures, it’s a magical little space where we’d be happy to spend an afternoon. 4- Merchant of York Merchant of York is a simple, but effective, small crafty storefront in Toronto’s Moss Park region. They sell an assortment of gifts, plants, large prints, and other small housewares. The store’s interior is complete with a beautiful hardwood floor, plenty of iron-like open-concept shelving to display their goods, and high ceilings. It’s warm and inviting. 5- City Betty City Betty is trying to bring a few big-city dreams to The Danforth. This trendy east end brunch spot nods to both California and New York, and their menu attempts to highlight what’s on offer at Ontario farms. The restaurant interior is chic and breezy, with a long mustard green booth across one wall and a table close to the bar aptly named “The Lookout.” Between the hanging greenery and the soft murals on the walls, we can see why this spot has a packed brunch hour. 6- Godspeed Brewery This east end brewery may be sparse inside, but that’s exactly why it works. The decor inside Godspeed is reminiscent of German beer halls, with long wood tables, high ceilings and tons of space. Of course, the interior has a strong industrial feel to it, with lots of chrome accents, as well an open kitchen and glass room to peer into where the beer is.

Often on the blog, we discuss decor and design trends but we usually focus on the home front. This allows our readers to find inspiration to create the perfect layout for their interiors and exteriors. But what about those looking for ideas for their business? When it comes to businesses, truth be told, the appearance of your retail space plays a very important role in attracting and enticing long-term customers. Whether it's a restaurant, a café or a store, having a look that stands out will get you a lot of attention on social media as well as on decor blogs. In the larger Canadian cities, like the metropolis of Toronto, you’ll find a large selection of boutiques and cafes, each more original than the next. This is why we’ve put together a list of 10 shops located in Toronto’s West End that could be featured in magazines. Renovations and commercial design: 6 Toronto West-End businesses worthy of magazines 1- Boonsik Boonsik is a new spot in the ever-expanding scope of Toronto restaurants, and we’re including it in this list for the laid-back atmosphere the space emits. An extremely minimal and casual interior is an excellent refresher in a city full of upscale, expensive options. The room comes across like a Korean diner, complete with neon sign decor, a fun yellow accent wall and simple wooden tables. With dim sum style dining, cute green speckled dishware for all the goods as well as a fridge stocked with old-school Korean snacks, we get why this warm and simple space is so popular. 2- Nice Nice Even from the facade alone, there’s something about Nice Nice that’s intriguing. This recent addition to the Parkdale neighbourhood is a two-room wine bar and burger joint. There’s a small 18-table cozy lounge that is complemented by a long bar, beautiful hardwood floors and full walls of open-concept shelving displaying their selection of wines. While on the other side, a standing-room-only space with purple neon lighting and a white tiled burger bar keeps things super chill. We love the versatility! 3- 96 Tears When it comes to Toronto vintage shops, there’s almost too much to choose from. But, when we’re paying a visit to the city’s West End, we make a point to check out the selection at 96 Tears. Another Parkdale spot, the original sign from this long-time jewelry store has been repurposed into a giant table that runs through the center of the shop. The space’s white walls, wood benches and vintage lounging couch make it the perfect place to put together an entire outfit for a night in or out. 4- JuiceBox Bar There is a real rise of wine bars on the Toronto scene, but JuiceBox may be the most photogenic among them. Run by the owners of the popular (now closed) SoSo Food Club, much of the same aesthetic remains. This eye-catching space is flirty and fun, with a blue crush velvet booth, moody fluorescents and overhead dome lighting plus an open-concept bar and dining area. We dare you to go for a glass or bottle and not take a photo! 5- Rose City Goods A west end lifestyle store, Rose City Goods is as quaint a spot as it sounds. The interior is loosely inspired by the beaches of California and gives off an easy, breezy, beautiful energy that is deeply rooted in the 1970s. The in-store curved shelving unit displays well crafted and unique ceramics. The store also sells textiles, stationery, and skincare products from local sources. This little shop is truly a diamond in the rough. 6- Cafe CanCan Wow- it’s very hard to contain one's excitement when visiting Harbord Villages Cafe CanCan. The pink entrance door is just a taste of what you’re in store for visiting this French bistro. A wash of colourful pastels dons the space, with turquoise booths, pink mirrors and floral wallpaper. The floor literally sparkles, adding yet another touch to this whimsical, dream-like, interior.