Profile

A bright orange awning signals the entrance to Gus* Modern, a contemporary furniture, accents, and accessories store from Toronto-based Gus* Design Group. Hard lines and industrial aesthetics dictate the design ethos. Sofas and chairs are tightly fitted with muted leathers and button-tufted fabrics; exposed stainless-steel frames and bases continue this sharp profile down to the floor. (The Delano chair, which echoes the angles of the iconic Mies van der Rohe “Barcelona” chair, seems to get the most press, popping up on TV shows like Oprah and Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.) An affinity for natural cowhides manifests itself in cube-shaped ottomans, like the Blythe Dyed Pony Cube, and the top-stitched Patchwork Pony Rug. Lightboxes and light sticks give off an ambient, decorative glow and soften the severe profiles of the furniture. Popular accessories include the organic nesting trays, made from extruded plastic, and the clear, acrylic wine-bottle holder. — Terry Selucky