The Most Beautiful Store Ever!!!

Yesterday I had the thrill of discovering an utterly perfect store...

Rob Kurkut Interiors in Calgary.

Walking into this store is like walking into a dream world, created by a master designer to fulfill all your decorating fantasies!  

Just look at it (~sigh~):

Photo:  Rob Kurkut

Rob opened his shop about 8 months ago, and I've been meaning to visit since reading a little excerpt in a local magazine.  There were no photos, so little did I know what I was missing.

The shop is pure perfection.  I didn't want to leave and immediately descended on Rob and asked him a dozen questions (sorry if I seemed a little stalker-ish Rob!):

Notice the beautiful greige colour block behind the mirror.  Rob painted the floors and added all the moldings, trimwork, and architectural detail himself to the tall, airy space.  I bought the small tray underneath the bouquet of hydrangea (I really wanted the day bed).

The store is a seamless mix of old and new, traditional and pared down, with an exciting balance of feminine and masculine elements, and a little whimsy too.

This taxidermy owl is just about to land atop an elegant commode (and looks surprised to see me):

Hello!

Rob has decorated for Christmas in the most elegant style, a bit southern mansion, with lighted magnolia garland and boxwood in graphic black urns:

I fell in love with these sconces (don't sell them Rob), but think I need a better house first (something with much taller ceilings and great architecture):

These sconces require a good home (mine)

Rob is an interior designer with an accomplished career in antique buying, marketing, merchandising (and more).  We didn't get to talk longer as he had customers, but it takes a trove of experience (and exquisite taste) to create a dream store like this:

These stunning twin beds are Italian circa 1940's and are made are burled walnut.

I love the colour block of deep Wedgwood blue behind the beds, proof that you can create architectural detail when there is none (provided you have talent, vision and a good mitre saw).

The gorgeous chandelier (insanely beautiful), elegant commode, and tall trumeau mirror complete the regal vignette:

I think I might need the lamp, as a minimum, if I can't afford those beds and that chandelier:

Rob's antiques are second to none, like this stunning inlaid clock. It is reproduction from Italy (1930's), made from inland mahogany:

A little more whimsy:

And look at this lovely upholstery...adding just a bit of pattern to an otherwise neutral dining space:

This elegant carved sideboard makes a powerful statement, but Rob balanced the elaborate and intricate detail with a display of simple white porcelain.  I wish I had this sense of balance and restraint when decorating:

And last but not least, this stunning armoire crested by a laurel leaf wreath sits in a more masculine corner of the store...

The photographer at work with her trusty iphone.  Sorry I forgot my proper camera, otherwise these photos would be more crisp!

If you want to visit Rob, and I know you do, he will be so pleased to see you (tell him I sent you!).

Rob Kurkut Interiors

1415 11St SW 

Calgary, AB

(403) 245-0035

(Rob's store is located near the Galaxie Diner, The Good Earth, and Peaseblossoms - a few blocks south of Maria Tomas on 11th St.)