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When less is more in the ways of design, Matter offers a veritable bounty of minimalism. Chosen carefully by owner Jamie Gray, the furniture, objets d'art and understated jewelry draw the most attention. The original Park Slope location updates household staples with inventive solutions by designers like Piet Houtenbos and Ed Carpenter; smaller items like angel-wing key chains, decorative mirrors and novelty cameras make cool gifts for design aficionados and modern-minded types. Hot pink Pigeon lamps, and a white porcelain nightlight in the shape of a Chihuahua compose an impeccably curated cabinet of curiosities. The more serious—though no less accessible—sister location in Soho opened in May 2007, and it focuses more on furniture and lighting. Bocci lamps splash light onto tables by British import Established & Sons and chairs by Alvar Aalto. Take a moment to notice the Zaha Hadid-designed Nekton stools just inside, as this lofty nook is the only place you'll see them on display in the U.S. — Terry Selucky