Karelia Manulife, Toronto. 1973.

Karelia Manulife opening.

We became aware that Lothian Mews might be developed in the near future. We wanted to be part of the high quality of retail on Bloor Street and started investigating possibilities. This was also the time that the Manulife residential and retail complex was being completed and they were looking for tenants. We managed to rent a reasonably large space at the back of the ground floor, next to the side entrance. The space was unfinished and we had to provide all electrical, flooring and everything else.

We wanted to create a flexible space in which to present and merchandize contemporary components of environment, such as glassware, cookware, dishes, cutlery, marimekko textiles textiles and clothing, furniture and accessories. In order to gain maximum flexibility, a system of wall and ceiling pipe grids were installed from which rear-lit glass display cabinets as well as shelving for books and pine wall panels. In order to create a distinct area for the marimekko clothing, the floor is raised and covered with a softer carpet than the rest of the space. Concrete walls, ceilings and ducts are left exposed and painted white. The metal pipe grids are painted bright red and visually define the volume of the space.

Karelia Manulife opening . David Piper editor of Canadian Interiors in the middle.

Karelia History, Environment, Janis Kravis, Marimekko, Arch & Design: 60s & 70sHenry TyminskiOctober 21, 20181960s & 1970sComment