CORKTOWN DESIGNS, 55 Mill, building #54, 416-861-3020,www.corktowndesigns.com Rating: NNNNN
Robyn Berman launched her Corktown Designs jewellery gallery in May 2003, when shoppers wandered the Distillery District’s cobblestone lanes whispering, “This is where they filmed Chicago.” Now that the Distillery is better known for its chic and crafty boutiques than its film credits, Corktown is a destination for metal, stone and wood baubles with a sleek, modern look.
Berman’s interior design background is obvious in the store’s floating glass cases filled with zigzag wire and stone bead chokers by Michelle Tilley , hand-carved wooden bead bracelets by Kim Drosdick and Sputniky pendants by Burnt Sienna . She trusts her gut when scouting new beaders, casters and silversmiths from across Canada and abroad, and her style-savvy stomach has made some smart picks, including Sonia Spencer ‘s acrylic cufflinks and Poppi pressed glass rings.
Tony Leung creates custom engagement rings, and if your potential spouse is gunning for a June wedding, now’s the time to get your order in. Corktown picks: Slip your wrist into one of Richard Wyman ‘s candy-coloured resin bangles, $65 to $75 Sarah Wan meticulously hand-carves the scalloped edge of her sterling silver earring set, $95 Burnt Sienna ‘s silver necklace wraps your bod in its links, $690.
Look for: Berman’s new Bergo interior design store, which recently opened down the lane from Corktown in building #47A (416-861-1821).
Hours: Monday to Wednesday 11 am to 7 pm, Thursday to Saturday 11 am to 9 pm, Sunday 11 am to 6 pm.
