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Cameroonian feather headresses are common enough in chic interiors but I had never seen one in multiple colours until my most recent visit to Toronto’s Kiondo (323 Queen Street East, 416.533.9959).

I don’t normally blog about a shop’s wares a second time, least of all within a year of my previous post but proprietor/importer Chris Johnson has some really great pieces on the floor at the moment. The headdress above is $600, same price as a one-coloured piece and so much more spectacular.

What really got me into Kiondo this time was the stool above, which I could see through the window from the street. I have a friend who’s looking for a stool or bench or console to tuck into a bay window and I thought the white stool ($600) would be perfect. Then when I saw the crazy circular cushion on top of it, I knew I had to do another post. The cushions, which come in green and orange, are made of rough rope and are strictly decorative — you wouldn’t want this against your skin — but what a brilliant accessory to add colour and texture. The best part is the price, only $60 each.

I didn’t get prices on Chris’s selection of mudcloth pillows but I recall from my last visit they are around $150 each. I was recently working on a job where the client asked for a global modern interior but when I proposed some African textiles she bluntly cautioned me, “NO Africa.” I certainly don’t share her prejudice, in fact, I think the timeless, organic quality and bold graphics are next door to fantastic.

Johnson also imports genuine indigo fabrics which he has made into amazing cushions. Buyer beware, however, because although Chris washes the cotton many times and sets the dye as best he can, indigo is notorious for coming off, these are not pillows that should be handled much.

If you crave a hit of African pattern but don’t see exactly what you want on the floor ask Chris what else he’s got in the back. On my last visit he was kind enough to give me a tour behind the wizard’s curtain and I was astonished by the range of options — just look at those khakis and earthy greens.

If you drop in on Chris remember to tell him stylenorth sent you.

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