Creating a new concept for a Vancouver design establishment with over 40 years of rich history is no easy feat, but owner Daphne Nielsen felt that after celebrating the store’s 40th anniversary last year - now is the perfect time to introduce a new Once a Tree Furniture. 

Located in the heart of Mount Pleasant, this new location is more than just a retail store. The promise is to deliver an open, accessible, and dynamic environment (no by-appointment shopping here!). The mission is to showcase the best of the design world, foster the design community and nurture inspiration. Centrally located at 292 West 3rd Avenue, the new concept opened its doors in mid-December. 

To share more about Once A Tree’s evolution, read on for a Q&A with owner Daphne Nielsen and sales manager Les Nelmes in conversation with Victoria McKenney of Enviable Designs. The next iteration of Once A Tree Furniture is here and we are excited to share a sneak peek with you! 

Victoria: Do you ever think back to your days as a kid in your parents store on Fraser Street? What would your Mom and Dad think if they could see you now?

Daphne: I think they’d be blown away - we started as an unfinished furniture store! People would come in and buy a piece or two at a time and take them home to finish themselves.

Today we are working with designers all over North America creating dream homes that have been expertly designed. In addition to our work in Vancouver we have furnished complete homes in New York, Phoenix, Hawaii, Palm Springs, Beverly Hills, Seattle as well as in all the major Canadian Cities. We take great pride in helping designers to realize their vision. 

Here are some examples of our talented local designers curated visions.

DESIGNER: ENVIABLE DESIGNS
PHOTO CREDIT: EMA PETERS

DESIGNER: AMANDA EVAN INTERIORS
PHOTO CREDIT: PROVOKE STUDIOS

DESIGNER: SIMPLY HOME DECORATING
PHOTO CREDIT: PROVOKE STUDIOS

Victoria: So let’s talk about Vancouver. How have the changes Vancouver has experienced influenced your business over the years?

Daphne: Vancouver has grown up. It has become much more sophisticated. In turn so have we. The designer and the consumer want and expect more from us today.  We have taken on that challenge and provide inspiration through our curated product line.  It’s important to us that we are always evolving and our new store I feel is a shining example of that.

Victoria: I imagine it is not easy to satisfy an interior designer. Can you tell me how that community influences the way you do business?

Les: The truth is, if we can satisfy the needs of our designers, we can meet the needs of any customer. We keep our eyes on the design community to help us anticipate their needs. We follow their social media platforms and review their websites regularly. This keeps us up-to-date on what they are looking for and how they are styling. With our new store, the idea is to offer new and interesting product and our goal is to change these collections up regularly. We want to keep it fresh. We also believe that as a business we need to engage with these designers. We brainstorm regularly about how we can add value beyond just a great collection of home decor products. We are always looking for ideas, if you have any please let us know! And as you know, we believe most in partnerships. We want the designers to grow their businesses, and we want to be a part of that success.

Victoria: This is where I can attest, I love the way you support me.  The fact that we were able collaboration to develop “Namesake” our line of Custom designed, locally made furniture and have it so prominently displayed in your showroom is so great

Les: No question. There is a fabulous pool of talent in Vancouver, and we are always looking for opportunities to take advantage of it. We are super proud our partnership with you and the end result, the “Namesake” line of furniture, is something very special.

DESIGNER: ENVIABLE DESIGNS
PHOTO CREDIT: PROVOKE STUDIOS

Victoria: How has the digital world changed the home decor business?

Les: I think the digital world has changed the industry so much. Taking business online makes it much easier for customers to shop.  It is really easy to get inspiration and it is a fantastic starting point.  I truly believe that one still needs a brick and mortar showroom to pull everything together. Its important to see the different finishes on different woods, to understand the difference between solid and veneer construction, to feel the different textures of different fabric and then to see how all these come together. We have an extensive library of samples and put together storyboards regularly for our clients. This is the type of customer service that is really hard to do online.

Victoria: I know Once a Tree offers more that just home decor. What is it about the new store that represents that intangible value?

Daphne: We are constantly looking for how we can do MORE. More is our promise.  And it doesn’t just relate to the product we offer. We are committed to asking for and fulfilling the needs of our design community. There is nothing I like better than when we get an email from a client thankful for the experience. I LOVE IT!!

Victoria: Well that was fun. I am so excited for you guys.

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Be sure to subscribe to our e-newsletter. You will learn about our upcoming grand opening, exclusive sales, designer collaborations and more. And, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @onceatreefurniture and Pinterest @OnceATree where we share our perspective and design discoveries.

By now, all of us are familiar with pandemic related delays due to supply chain issues affecting every sector across the board. The furniture industry is no different. While we are starting to see things *slowly* pick up, it’s no secret people have been waiting months and months for everything from manufacturing to shipping of new furniture.

At Once A Tree, we are extremely proud of our made-in-Canada STUDIO Collection. Featuring furniture that’s designed and made locally in Vancouver, we’ve luckily been able to skip a lot of the months-long wait times for furniture to be made and delivered. In fact, with a lead time of twelve weeks, it’s a great option for those looking to refresh their home in time for fall, and the holiday season.

Ready for more good news? We’re gearing up for one of our biggest sales of the year: our Special Order Event, which is coming your way in just a couple of weeks. Starting on October 13th, we’ll be offering limited-time only discounts on our custom furniture line, special markdowns on in-stock pieces (that are available to take home right in time for the holidays!), and additional deeply discounted furniture pieces and accessories to update your home that simply won’t last.

If you’re one of ‘those people’ who are tired of the months-long delays for new furniture, visit us at 750 SW Marine Drive for a peek at some gorgeous pieces that are in stock and available to take home today! Plus, keep your eyes peeled for our Special Order Event coming soon, and sign up for our e-newsletter to be the first to know when the sale starts in October!

On that note, our owner, Daphne, has rounded up some of her favourite furniture pieces for fall and ready-to-purchase looks available in store below. Mark your calendars for our Special Order Event on October 13th, and get inspired to refresh your home without waiting months to do it. 

Fall is all about getting warm and cozy with a favourite book (or current binge-worthy Netflix show), blanket, and a cuppa tea. To do this, we recommend a luxurious sectional to help you take full advantage.

Sleek, comfortable, and cozy, our Kaylee Sectional is designed for any aesthetic. We currently have this minimalist sectional available for purchase in custom upholstery from our OAT Studio Collection. Or, if you’re interested in customizing it, visit us in store to choose from a wide selection of leathers and fabrics. Either way, we guarantee memorable movie nights ahead in your future! 

Add a more formal touch to your living room or bedroom with a darker aesthetic for fall. Darker colours never fail to add a touch of drama to a space, and our Jules Collection is no different. Made by Huppé Furniture, a Canadian company, this furniture collection is made from solid wood and selected oak veneer - and there’s a piece for every purpose, from a six-drawer chest to a two-drawer nightstand, and more!

Balance out the darker furniture with some lighter coloured accessories (like our Glace Lamp and Signature Oval Boxes) for eye-catching contrast and enjoy a refreshed space that evokes class and elegance! 

Mid-century lovers, rejoice! Our gorgeous Sloane Sofa by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is in stock, on sale, and ready for your home. Perfectly sized to fit in a smaller space, this timeless and comfortable sofa is the epitome of modern comfort.

Featuring a distinctive profile accented by delicately shaped tapered legs, we have two Sloane Sofas in stock in a soft textured weave fabric for a neutral look that will never go out of style. 

Did you know, you spend approximately one-third of your life asleep!? It’s one of the reasons we are big fans of a neutral-themed bedroom that is both calming and soothing, but that also adds the perfect amount of interest by combining different textures and accessories. 

We love the way this premium cotton and linen bedding from the Montauk Collection by Au Lit Fine Linens looks on our made-in-Canada Winston Bed! Featuring oversized, textured throw pillows that you can easily switch with each season, this bedroom is luxurious enough to lounge in whether you’re a night owl or a morning person. Complete the look with dramatic wall decor - like these Dual Tone Plates - for a bold, but neutral bedroom update that is anything but boring! 

Whether you’re setting up for a family movie night or retreating to your living room for a nightcap, the Carson Sectional by Mitchell Gold + Bob William will not disappoint. Modern, super-comfortable, and versatile, this oversized sectional features a relaxing angle to recline in, and extra wide cushions for added comfort. 

Take our Carson Sectional home today and enjoy cozy fall evenings in front of the fireplace like never before! 

Whether you are looking to refresh your home for fall, working on a home renovation, or need help on a custom furniture design for your home, let our team help you discover the perfect piece to bring your home dreams to life. Follow us on Instagram @onceatreefurniture and Pinterest @OnceATree for more design inspiration, or sign up to our e-newsletter today for more details on our new OAT DESIGN STUDIO location opening this October!

We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: at Once A Tree Furniture, one of our favourite things is getting to collaborate with the bevy of talented local designers in our community. For months (and months!) we have been working hard behind-the-scenes to launch our very first furniture collaboration with an interior designer you all know and love, and we’re so excited to finally share the very first sneak peek of this bespoke collection with you all.

Victoria McKenney of Enviable Designs is an incredibly talented designer with the ability to take ‘comfortable sophistication’ to a whole new level. Over the years, we’ve worked closely with Victoria to help furnish her luxury home projects and we’re thrilled to finally share that our first designer furniture collaboration, Namesake, will be available to purchase this fall exclusively at Once A Tree. To celebrate, we recently chatted with Victoria about Namesake, the inspiration behind the line, her tips for aspiring designers, and much more. Sign up to our e-newsletter today to be the first to know when the collection officially drops in our store, and in the meantime, read on to learn more about our exclusive Namesake collaboration.

OAT: Tell us all about Namesake. How did it start? Where does the inspiration come from? 

Victoria: Namesake was quite a natural evolution, which was a progression from my design work. I found that I was constantly designing bespoke furniture for my clients because I could never quite find the right ready-made pieces locally or abroad.  

As such, I was often having these pieces fabricated by Once a Tree Furniture, and through this process, Daphne (OAT’s owner) was able to see the pieces that I was designing. When she first approached me about creating a furniture line, I immediately thought it was the perfect pairing. Great quality, locally-made furniture by Once A Tree, and an opportunity to design bespoke pieces that could work within a variety of design styles.

OAT: How would you describe this collection in three words?

Victoria: Timeless, refined, tailored.

OAT: Who did you have in mind when you designed this collection, and who do you think will be drawn to this collection?

Victoria: Truly, everyone. I believe that Namesake is a relevant furniture collection that has a refined sense of style, ease and sophistication which appeals to almost every aesthetic.

You’ll see in many of the pieces and designs that the furniture reflects a modern elegance with a neutral palette, beautiful silhouettes and distinctive fabrics. And above all, quality furniture that is built to last is the most important value.

OAT: What drew you to working with us at Once A Tree Furniture on this bespoke furniture collection? How would you describe this process?

Victoria: I have been a longtime client of Once a Tree (since beginning my design career in 2003). Throughout the years, I have purchased their high-quality pieces and we’ve worked together collaborating on many different projects. When Daphne approached me for this furniture line, I knew it would be successful because of our long standing working relationship built on trust, understanding and creativity. The quality that I know OAT offers is outstanding, and I was especially ecstatic to design this collection with OAT knowing that the pieces would all be well-made and locally manufactured. 

OAT: What is your favourite piece from this collection, and why?

Victoria: That’s a hard one! I truly love every piece from the collection, and each one is so thoughtfully designed. If I had to pick, I think my favourite piece is the Thomas Dining Table (pictured above). I love the connection between the two materials; wood and marble which blend seamlessly together. The piece is also very versatile, and could lend itself to a contemporary or traditional space.

OAT: In addition to now being a furniture designer, you have a very successful, award-winning career as an interior designer. What first drew you to design and why do you love it?

Victoria: Growing up in a home where style, interior design and art was considered and honoured was a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the arts. I originally graduated from UBC with an art history degree, thinking I would pursue art preservation but quickly grew to understand that a science background was required and hence thought I would need to explore other options.

I traveled throughout Europe after graduating and was in awe of the architecture from that part of the world which sparked an instant connection for me.  Upon returning, I began design school and the rest is history! Design is such a creative process but I truly love connecting with clients and through that relationship, curating deeply personal and  beautiful spaces for them.

OAT: How was the design process of creating furniture different from designing interiors?

Victoria: Great question! It was actually very similar to designing interiors in that once an original idea is created, then the hard work of problem solving, fine tuning and detailing begins.

Throughout this process, I’ve learned that every piece must be sampled, analyzed and then modified to finalize the perfect design. It truly was a long process from conception to realization - which is what makes this collection a true labour of love, and why I am so proud to finally share it with everyone.

OAT: This collaboration has been a long time in the making. Can you share some of the challenges we encountered in bringing this collection to life?

Victoria: Honestly, timing was the most challenging aspect.  We began this collection when the pandemic first started in 2020 so even though the collection was complete, the fabrication and sampling was hugely delayed due to factory closures and supply chain issues - and we kept having to push the release date back.

That said, we’re so excited to finally debut the collection this fall in Once A Tree’s new showroom when it opens to the public in October.

OAT: Do you have any advice for aspiring designers in Vancouver?

Victoria: Interior Design is a very rewarding career but it is also hard work. Any aspiring designers should work for a design firm first to learn how the business side of things operate.  Also, be open to continuous learning, and take the time to travel and gain inspiration from everywhere.

OAT: Who are your design influences? Who do you look to for inspiration?

Victoria: There are so many amazing designers that I look to for inspiration. Thomas Pheasant has a wonderfully tailored sensibility as does Barbara Barry.

There are also many Canadian designers who I have met throughout the years who continue to inspire me; Elizabeth Metcalfe, Paul Levoie and Richard Ouellette, to name a few.

Thank you for chatting with us, Victoria! 

We are excited to finally launch the Namesake Collection with Victoria McKenney this fall. Be sure to sign up to our e-newsletter today to be the first to know when this bespoke furniture collection is available to shop in our store. For more design inspiration, follow us @onceatreefurniture and @enviabledesigns on Instagram!

If you’re local to Vancouver and familiar with the vibrant design community here, you may have heard of DesignLaB Interiors. Founded and run by the talented Alexis MacKay-Dunn, DesignLaB is known for their ability to transform clients’ homes into clean, modern spaces that undoubtedly reflect the best of west coast living, while also remaining both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Whether it’s a single room project, a new build or a big (or small!) renovation, Alexis and her team are passionate about bringing their clients’ dream home to life. 

Recently, we were thrilled to have the chance to work closely with her on a new build project that we are sharing exclusive sneak peeks of below (captured by the infinitely talented Janis Nicolay!). And, we took the opportunity to ask her some burning questions about her path to interior design, and what keeps her inspired daily. To learn more about Alexis, keep reading for an inside look into her fascinating world of interior design! 

OAT: Let’s start with a quick intro! Tell us more about yourself, and what led you to interior design. How would you describe your approach to design, and your overall style? 

Alexis: I started my career in interior design over 12 years ago - after dabbling in numerous industries that helped shape my perspective on interior design as a business. I had originally set out to university in Toronto where I achieved a commerce degree in retail, with an interest in buying (which seemed glamorous at the time!) and had a sneak peak at retail design. After a brief stint in commercial property appraisal after I returned to Vancouver, I decided it was time to get into my passion of interior design and I went to school at BCIT. During my design education I managed a home staging business, which not only gave me an edge in real space planning, but also connected me to a community of designers, realtors and home owners. I felt like I hit my stride.

My design tastes have evolved over time, but I tend toward a more clean, masculine aesthetic, tending to keeping things neutral and classic for my base materials (except for my green kitchen at home!). While I have always admired art deco and traditional designs, my heart is with the clean and simple more modern aesthetic. However, I’ve heard time and time again from clients that I have a knack for creating a warmth that always feels like home!

OAT: Now, on to this project. We had so much fun collaborating with you on unique furniture pieces for this home. Help us paint a picture of what this project looked like from the very beginning. What was the ‘state of the home’ when you first began? How long did the design process take from beginning to end? You know the drill!

Alexis: The previous home had had a large amount of water damage and was inhabitable. In fact, it was at a point where it was a better idea to start anew than remediate. I began this project when the architect handed the plans to me in early 2019 (just after I had my first child!). I was given the rooms’ outlines, but otherwise it was carte blanche for me to add my touch for the interiors.

The home is located at 54th and Oak in Vancouver and from beginning to end, has taken three years! We completed this home amidst a pandemic and worked with the home’s offshore owner to design and complete. The main design itself was completed in a few months, but I continued to work with the owner, architect and builder, Ronse Massey Developments, throughout the process. Collectively, we’re a team of eyes on the ground for the owner so there is a lot of back and forth and certainly a lot of gained trust through this process.

OAT: What were some of the key design goals for this home? 

Alexis: Because the owners live offshore, our primary goal for this home was to produce something that felt like home but was turn key and easy for the clients when they visited a couple times of year. The main solution for this ended up being a lot of built-ins and design tricks like streamlining the bed frame built-ins and closets to ensure they were functional, clean and traveler friendly. We customized each of the six bedrooms for each family member, by incorporating different large feature lights and unique custom fabric headboard and drapery for each room. Additionally, we added character to the bedrooms by incorporating important details like the gorgeous Melrose Chairs sourced from Once A Tree Furniture which make for a comfortable and stylish spot to relax and unwind with a book at the end of a long day!

OAT: Were any unique materials or design elements used in this project? If so, what was the inspiration behind them? 

Alexis: We have a large fireplace as the centerpiece of the main living space that we cladded in Mat Concrete floor to ceiling. It is flanked by custom bookshelves in dark stained oak, and compliments the bold, black textured Dubois Cocktail Table that adds more eye-catching contrast to the living area. We also used a lot of white oak detailing in the home - all stained in two custom colours - which brighten up the space. The living area was also thoughtfully furnished with statement furniture in neutral tones throughout - including some of our current favorites like the Clayton Chair and Dexter Accent Table - that will remain timeless for years to come.

One additional unique feature the architect, Alexandre Ravkov, created is a curved wall for the staircase. We cladded the living room side of the wall with vertical oak ‘slats’, and continued the detail across the kitchen ceiling which created balance and warmth in the large space. 

OAT: What makes this project special? Do you have any favourite parts of the home, and why?

I find this home particularly special as it just radiates my style! I was really able to take the reins and make it totally my aesthetic, and the client really trusted my input so it feels very ‘me’. Being able to create so many built-ins is also something unique to this home which I also love. Being able to customize a home to work for your clients needs is always a challenge but equally satisfying when you can achieve it and maintain your style!

OAT: Tell us more about your backstory while working on this project. Were there any hiccups or delays along the way, and how did this impact the project and process?

Alexis: A little thing called COVID really left its mark on this project - in fact, we are still dealing with delays in shipping for the exterior patios, and a few outstanding furniture pieces. Besides the general pains of everyone in this industry (and many other industries), on a personal level, I also had a pretty big health issue to manage. I was diagnosed with kidney disease (IgA Nephropathy) when I was pregnant with my first child, and it was determined that I had it for a long time but it had gone undetected. After my son was born, as I was planning and coordinating this project, my husband and I were given a small window to try for our second child as my kidney function was declining. The good news is, we were successful! But as my pregnancy evolved, my kidneys declined significantly and we had to deliver my daughter (yay!) at 32 weeks (not a yay). Between trips to the nicu and my own extended stay in hospital, it was obvious my kidneys were not going to recover and that I needed a transplant ASAP. I spent a few months on dialysis, and in June 2021, I found my angel and had my transplant. I do need to give my husband some credit here as he held us all up through this time! With little to no kidney function, you also have little to no brain function so I wasn’t much help around the house! Post transplant life has been life changing. While I still deal with health challenges each day (my kidney disease has reared its ugly face in my new kidney so I am constantly monitored), we are doing our best to enjoy my health (and brain!), and trying to fit in as much family time as possible. For now I am feeling good, and we will live in this space until we need to shift gears.

All of this to say, my personal health and family challenges did not make it easy to keep a large design project on track. It was no easy feat, but thankfully everyone involved was very understanding and my fellow design friends stepped in to help when I needed things adjusted or reviewed. It's amazing to see the community step up when you need it and I will be forever grateful for all the support we received.

OAT: Thank you so much for sharing this heartfelt story with us. Your strength is inspiring! Let’s shift gears a bit to the broader design world. In your expert opinion, what are some design trends we can look forward to seeing in the last half of 2022? 

Alexis: I’m probably not the ‘trendiest’ person to ask as I’ve got my head in the sand with two kids, a busy work schedule, and trying to get back to enjoying a healthy life for a bit! But, I’m a big believer in choosing timeless designs, and if I was to push someone in the right direction I would say things like: choose natural stones (don’t shy from honed granite, 90’s are back baby!), and keep things tone on tone with added texture. Interiors tend to follow fashion trends as well, so we’re all about the juxtaposition of proportion and texture.

OAT: What’s next for DesignLaB? Any exciting new projects you’re working on?

Alexis: I feel like I’m just getting warmed back up so I’m excited for what is next for me personally, and for DesignLaB. I have a couple tricks up my sleeve that will be showcased soon enough (if we get the furniture in time, right!?). I feel like I’ve got a second chance at all this, now that I’m reenergized I’m ready to create and have lots of fun doing it. 

 OAT: Finally, where can people find you online for more information about your services + offerings?

Alexis: On my website you can find my contact information and some projects we’ve done in the past (www.design-lab.ca), and make sure you follow along on Instagram (@designlabca) to stay up-to-date on what we’re working on currently! 

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us, Alexis! Visit DesignLaB’s website for more information and don’t forget to give us a follow on Instagram @onceatreefurniture. Over the next couple weeks, we’ll be sharing more BTS looks at this gorgeous home designed by Alexis, and highlighting key furniture pieces included in this project from Once A Tree that you can check out for your own home, too!

If you’re working on a home renovation, a one-room refresh or interior design on a new home build, get in touch with us to see how we can help you bring your dream home to life! From custom-built furniture to luxury accessories and more, contact us today. And, be sure to subscribe to our e-newsletter to be the first to know about our upcoming sales, exclusive discounts, designer tips and more!

It’s often easier to focus on the bigger picture when it comes to a home renovation. However, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the importance of the final, finishing details in any home makeover, renovation or remodel.

Accessories are among the best ways to add personality to a room - and they’re often overlooked or not properly thought through. It’s the little details - everything from colour, texture and material - that can help tell a story, invoke a good memory or simply add to the overall feel and vibe of a room. These are the things that contribute to creating your sense of home style.

At Once A Tree, we thoughtfully curate our showroom displays down to the smallest of details, including lighting, tableside décor, and other luxury accessories. We delight in our emotive response to the objects we surround ourselves with - everything from original artwork to the delicate translucence of a tinted glass vase to the soothing scent of a fragrant, hand-poured soy candle - and we invite you to consider how all of these details can enhance your home, as well. On that note, here are five ideas for choosing and arranging the best home accessories to add the perfect finishing touches to your renovation! 

Don’t be afraid to mix and match

From different textures to contrasting colours, shapes and sizes, don’t be afraid to mix and match your accessories to add interest and personality. Choose a larger object as your focal point, and build around it.

We love our Meteor Bowls pictured above on a sideboard, coffee table or bookshelf! Styled alongside contrasting objects like our vertical Seeded Candle Holders and you have the perfect combination of height, depth and contrast.

Use in-season foliage and florals as a focal point

Without a doubt, one of the easiest ways to switch up your home accessories from season to season is by incorporating in-season florals and greenery. Bringing an element of the outdoors inside is also an easy way to add a pop of colour to your space.

We’ve curated a selection of gorgeous, luxury vessels to help you do this. Some of our new favourites this season include our Lithos Vases in different shapes and sizes. We also love the look of trendy, tinted glass this season and recommend the Sadie or Oslo Vase to help you achieve this look!

Create drama and personality with original artwork

[Painting credit: Lisa Ochowycz]

[Painting credit: Krista Johnson]

Original artwork is always a go-to accessory for us when it comes to finishing up a room. It’s the ideal way to infuse personality into a space and can drastically change the overall look and feel of a room. 

At Once A Tree, we love supporting local artists and frequently rotate their work on display in our showroom. We are loving the current works of Lisa Ochowycz and Krista Johnson lately, and we know you will, too. Art work is a truly unique home accessory that serves as a stunning focal point and conversation piece. Visit our Vancouver showroom to see these gorgeous pieces on display for yourself!

Don’t be afraid to add colour!

For the last couple years, we’ve seen home décor and accessories be saturated with that “light, bright, airy” aesthetic (thanks, Instagram!). We’re here to tell you to go for it when it comes to adding pops of colour! Just like texture, colour is a great way to add interest, personality and contrast to a room. Whether it’s a moody vase, contrasting display trays, or gorgeous (and practical!) textured storage baskets, don’t be afraid to incorporate different colours into your home accessories.

Utilize lighting to set the mood of a room

[Photo credit: Provoke Studios]

Lighting has the power to transform the whole feel, look and warmth of your living space. From a statement chandelier in your living room to a sleek floor lamp in your home office, lighting is an often inexpensive and overlooked way to add the finishing touches to any home or room renovation. 

We love the simple impact of a modern bedside lamp like the Whitman lamp pictured above in this bedroom designed by Suzanne McIntosh of One by Design! It adds a clean and classic feel to the space without the clutter - and its timeless silhouette will be on trend for many years to come.

Whether you are finishing up a full home renovation, undertaking a one-room refresh or looking to update your home with new home accessories, let our team help you discover the pieces you’re looking for! Follow us on Instagram @onceatreefurniture and Pinterest @OnceATree for more design inspiration, or reach out today to see how we can help you complete your next home renovation project!

Earlier this month, our owner, Daphne, was interviewed by The Vancouver Sun for a lighting trends story that was also published in the latest issue of West Coast Homes + Design. In this story, Daphne highlights lighting as a longer-term design investment that makes a huge impact on a home’s aesthetic. Unlike a chair or a throw pillow, high-quality lighting is more of a big picture decision - as it serves a functional purpose, of course, but also needs to stand the test of time.

Lighting remains a (relatively) budget-friendly way to refresh a dining room or entryway, and with each new season comes updated lighting options that will appeal to anyone in the market for a new light fixture. 

At Once A Tree Furniture, we’ve always curated an elegant and timeless collection of quality lighting for any design aesthetic and home. From pendants and chandeliers to table lamps and wall sconces - here are five of our current favourite lighting trends to consider from a recent home install we worked on with the talented Suzanne McIntosh of One By Design. Read on if you’re looking for a beautiful way to switch things up in your home!

Go bold! Utilize bold lighting as a focal point in any room

Interiors by Suzanne McIntosh of One By Design

[Photo credit: Provoke Studios]

Lighting can be way more than just ‘functional’. In fact, oftentimes, we liken it to a piece of art, and encourage you to consider utilizing your light fixture as the focal point of the room. Pictured above, is one of our favourite lighting fixtures this season - the Chandler Chandelier by Arteriors!

Mirroring traditional Italian design and featuring clear glass that delicately dangles from the antique brass frame (also available in a brown nickel finish), this show stopping chandelier is exactly what we’d consider a focal point. It also happens to pair perfectly with our popular Remy Chairs by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams!

Symmetrical, drop lighting adds a modern vibe to a traditional bathroom vanity

Interiors by Suzanne McIntosh of One By Design

[Photo credit: Provoke Studios]

Bathroom lighting is often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. We are loving the look of modern drop lighting that also brings in a touch of traditional with frosted glass - like the Eden Pendants by Visual Comfort seen above. 

Bold, yet understated, these oversized pendants provide much-needed lighting for everything from make-up application to putting in your contact lenses! By keeping the design symmetrical, these gorgeous pendants are an elegant and timeless way to uplevel your bathroom. 

Brighten up unexpected spaces

Interiors by Suzanne McIntosh of One By Design

[Photo credit: Provoke Studios]

Everybody loves a good ‘nook’, and it tends to be one of our favourite spots in any home to add an unexpected touch of light. In this bedroom nook pictured above, we love the two Hudson wall sconces by Arteriors which blend into the décor during the day, but also act as a functional option to brighten up the spot for reading in the evening. 

Modern, yet traditional, these subtle wall sconces are as pretty as they are practical making it a huge design ‘win’ in our books!

Never underestimate the power of a statement chandelier

Interiors by Suzanne McIntosh of One By Design

[Photo credit: Provoke Studios]

Without a doubt, long lines and simple silhouettes top our list of lighting trends this year! The oversized Cascadia Chandelier by Matthew McCormick pictured above in this living space adds the perfect amount of drama while still remaining elegant. Not only do the vertical lines of this chandelier draw the eye up, emphasizing the spacious and high ceiling, but the subtle colours of this lighting fixture make it a timeless addition to this luxurious living room for many years to come.

Add elegance to a room with a classic floor lamp

Interiors by Suzanne McIntosh of One By Design

[Photo credit: Provoke Studios]

Our Buster Floor Lamp by Robert Abbey is picture perfect next to our Fritz Chair by Vanguard. With an antique brass lampstand and a classic silhouette on top, this lamp is undoubtedly elegant and classic while providing additional functional lighting if/when needed.

With its clean lines and neutral-coloured lampshade, this sitting area is the perfect spot to escape from a busy day!

The lighting in your home has the power to transform the whole feel and warmth of your space. Whether it’s a statement chandelier in your living room, an industrial-style pendant light in your kitchen, a modern bedside lamp or an elegant floor lamp, picking out the perfect light fixture can make all the difference. Different rooms require different lighting, and our team of home and design experts at Once A Tree Furniture are here to help you pick out the best lighting for any room in your home. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch to book your private consultation. 

We’ve just returned from the always-inspiring High Point Market, a must-see event for the latest in home design and decor trends, and just had to share with you. This year, we toured the market with North Vancouver-based interior designer Lori Steeves of Simply Home Decorating, which made it even better. Every Spring, High Point is a highlight for us, so we couldn’t wait to share this recap of the latest furniture and home design trends you’ll want to emulate this Spring.

If you’re considering a full-scale spring refresh or simply looking to update one or two areas of your home, the following Spring design trends inspired us, and we hope they’ll inspire you! Note: You’ll definitely be seeing these trends reflected in our Vancouver showroom throughout the spring and summer seasons. 

Contrast is Making a Comeback

Everywhere we looked at High Point Market, we noticed an immense display of black and white, and black paired with neutrals. Even before the Market, we started to pick up on this trend, but it was definitely confirmed this Market season. 

Pops of black against a more neutral setting are a trend we are definitely loving, as seen in the image above from High Point. Bernhardt Furniture - one of our favourite North American furniture makers - perfectly pairs their curvy white Merritt Sofas with their chic black Wyatt Chairs creating just the right amount of contrast. And, black is back in a big way across the board- making an appearance on everything from lighting to table and chair legs to dining tables, textiles, and much more! 

Neutrals Are Definitely Still ‘In’

For a while there, it seemed like all anybody wanted was a white, cream or neutral aesthetic. While colours are making their way back on the scene, a neutral palette will always be a timeless classic.

At this year’s Market, we found there to be a great mix of neutral and cream backgrounds (sofas especially!) that were accented with pops of caramel and blush accents. Whether in the form of a throw pillow or blanket, investing in a quality, neutral-coloured base piece (like a sofa or bed frame) easily allows you to switch out your home accessories to keep up with the current trending colour themes and patterns.

Curves for a Modern and Sleek Vibe

Curves were a big theme at this year’s Market! In upholstery (think sofas and armchairs) as well as everything from console tables to dining tables, curves are quickly becoming a go-to design addition to any room-like the Bernhardt Aline Swivel Chairs pictured here.

One of our big sellers this season has been the sleek and curvy Giselle Chair by MG+BW Home and it’s easy to see why! With a durable, eco-friendly hardwood frame and high density, high resiliency cushioning in the form of a curved back, it perfectly captures the trend of the season!

Natural Textures and Layers Provide a Unique Focal Point

There is nothing we love more than natural materials and textures when it comes to furniture - and we were pleased to see lots of it at this year’s Market! 

In fact, without a doubt one of the new pieces we’re most excited to bring in are the gorgeous Dinec Piper dining chairs pictured above. With a sturdy but modern frame that highlights the natural wood grain and high-performance fabric for comfort and durability, these gorgeous dining chairs are also made and designed in Canada, making it our go-to choice this season. Contact us today to pre-order your chairs (available in your choice of fabric and wood finish!)

Elevated Outdoor Furniture for Luxurious Patio Living

As we enter patio season, we couldn’t help but notice the shift to elevated outdoor furniture. Gone are the days when a collapsible Tommy Bahama beach chair was a go-to outdoor furniture staple! With all the extra time we’ve all been spending at home over the past couple years, it only makes sense that our outdoor furniture should be just as luxurious as our indoor furniture. 

This season, we’ll be carrying a wide selection of high-end furniture to help you uplevel your outdoor dining and outdoor living needs. Some of our current favourites include our Pietra Collection by Sunset West (just check out the Pietra Sofa!) and our Origami Chair by Bernhardt (pictured above). 

Need more furniture inspiration or ideas for how to update your home for spring? Visit our showroom Monday to Saturday from 10-5:30 and we guarantee you’ll leave feeling inspired to refresh your home for a new season! 

Whether you are looking to do a full home renovation, a one-room refresh or updating your patio furniture and decor, let our team of design experts help you find the perfect piece(s) for your home. Follow us on Instagram @onceatreefurniture and Pinterest @OnceATree for more design inspiration, or reach out today to see how we can help you get started on your next home design project!

Spring is finally here! One of our favourite seasons for so many reasons - one of them being the new spring furniture trends it brings. New collections, brighter colours, longer days, and okay maybe still a *little bit* more rain than we’d like on the west coast, but there’s no denying the extra pep in our step as we look to freshen things up around the home for spring. 

In our showroom, we are excited to be debuting the following collection of spring furniture from our favourite suppliers. From sleek curves to gorgeous new fabrics and colourways to natural textures, materials and more, our spring furniture collection is now on display in our showroom - and we guarantee it will inspire you! Whether you are redesigning one room in your home, looking to get started on a custom furniture creation or planning a complete home renovation, our passionate team of design and furniture experts will help you pick the perfect piece(s) to bring your furniture dreams to life. 

Voila, here are the Spring furniture trends we’re excited about, brought to life by the following 10 new pieces. Bonus: Until this Sunday, March 13th, all pieces from our Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Collection are 20% off during our Special Order Event!

Celebrate Form and Function This Season

Featuring soft curves and customizable fabric options, the Luna Chair by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is a statement piece that represents this spring’s trend towards celebrating form and function. The Italian-inspired sculptural design of this deceivingly comfy accent chair is a piece of art that you can truly relax in.

Pictured here in performance velvet fabric (colour is “Sepia”), this stunningly unique statement chair is available in your choice of fabric or leather so you can pick and choose a chair that will suit your space perfectly. Best of all, as the only MG+BW Home retailer in Western Canada, you can also enjoy 20% off if you purchase it during our MG+BW Special Order Event, on now until March 13th!

Choose Elevated Furniture for Inside or Outside

[photo credit: @palecekdesign / Instagram]

Nothing says ‘spring’ quite like the Melrose Lounge Chair by Palecek Design! Featuring a high-quality, hardwood frame and legs and hand-twisted natural jute rope woven on the frame, back and sides, this accent chair adds a touch of airy sophistication to any room - or patio, if you’re like us and looking forward to a long season of outdoor living. 

Any way you style it, we think the Melrose Lounge Chair is a trend-setter in the best possible way!

Classic Silhouettes Never Go Out of Style

Meet the Abbey Sofa by Lee Industries! Featuring an eco-friendly hardwood frame and eco-friendly, high density and high resiliency cushioning, this luxurious sofa is everything you never knew you needed. Take your living room to new heights with the Abbey Sofa which offers a classic silhouette that adds a timeless elegance to any living room design. 

Available in a wide selection of fabrics and leg finishes, if you dream it, we can help you achieve it. And by ‘it’, we mean the design aesthetic you’re going for! If you’re in the market for a new sofa, you can’t go wrong with the ‘Abbey’. 

Incorporate Natural Textures and Elements into Your Home for Spring

The Tremont Coffee Table by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is a staff favourite this season for sure! Featuring a natural, reclaimed teak root base, this sturdy living room table boasts a one-of-a-kind design that’s sure to be the focal point of any living space. Clean, modern and truly unique, this stylish coffee table is a luxurious piece that adds a touch of the west coast to your home. And, we guarantee it’ll be a piece you’ll love for many years to come.

Plus, don’t forget: you can enjoy 20% off this piece until March 13th only!

Don’t Sacrifice Style for Comfort When it Comes to Lounge Furniture

[photo credit: @palecekdesign / Instagram]

Modern, stylish perfection is what we think of when it comes to the Clayton Lounge Chair by Palecek Design. This accent chair is an ideal set-up for reading your favourite book on a sunny spring morning, or cozying up in with a cup of tea before bed. 

Featuring a sturdy hardwood frame, this lounge chair comes in a gorgeous, coffee brown finish accented with hand-twisted all-weather synthetic abaca in a cream, two-tone finish for just the right amount of contrast! 

Versatile Furniture Allows You to Switch Things Up

[photo credit: @palecekdesign / Instagram]

Palecek Design comes up a few times on our list of must-have pieces for spring, and there’s no question why. The Pratt Chair by Palecek is a modern and stylish addition to any room, with its hardwood frame and legs in a dark espresso finish and natural jute rope sides and back (and so on-trend)! 

Whether these chairs are styled in a living room as accent chairs or around a custom dining table for gatherings with loved ones, these versatile chairs are easy to move around while adding a sophisticated touch for any occasion. 

Timeless Pieces Are Worth the Investment

When it comes to picking a sectional for your home, the Grayson Sectional by Lee Industries checks all the boxes. Take family movie night to the next level with this timeless sectional! Modern, yet comfortable, this classic, oversized sectional is available in a wide range of fabrics and leg finishes to suit any design aesthetic.  

Made from eco-friendly hardwood and high density, high resiliency cushioning, this luxurious sectional is truly built to last!

Neutrals Are Always ‘In’

[photo credit: Bernhardt Furniture]

Modern meets comfort with the Colette Sofa by Bernhardt Furniture! Luxe feather down cushioning takes center stage when it comes to this stylish sofa. Available in a wide variety of fabrics and finishes (we personally love it in this neutral fabric that goes with anything!), this sofa can easily be customized to match any living room aesthetic. Modern living never looked *or felt* better!

Soften Your Living Room With Modern Curves

[photo credit: MG+BW Home]

An accent chair that doubles as a conversation piece? Yes please! The modern curves of our Giselle Chair by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams are undeniably elegant - and the best part is it comes in your choice of fabric or leather! Customize this gorgeous chair to suit your design aesthetic and enjoy this artisan-crafted statement chair that pays the utmost attention to detail. Did we mention its comfort level is a 10/10?!

Don’t Be Afraid to Be Eclectic

We couldn’t wrap up this list without including the Oscar Chair by Lee Industries! Eclectic, modern and truly eye-catching, the Oscar Chair is a statement piece like no other. If you are looking for a can’t miss piece to add to your office or living space, this is it! Featuring a hammered metal frame and eco friendly, high density, high resiliency cushioning, this accent chair definitely will not go unnoticed.

Pick from your choice of natural or black leather for the seat and back, and enjoy this unique chair for many years to come! 

Our new spring collection is available in our showroom now! Visit us at 750 SW Marine Drive Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm and let us help you bring your home dreams to life. Follow us on Instagram @onceatreefurniture for more design inspiration, or reach out today to see how we can help you get started on your next home design project!