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Moving into a new home can be an exciting and overwhelming experience all at once. You’re finally in your own space, but now you have a blank canvas to decorate. Where do you even start? Let us introduce you to some of the best local retailers in Hamilton that will help turn your house into a home.
First up is Pretty Grit, located on James Street North (a favourite of Kellye, the BREL team’s resident Hamiltonian). Owner Amanda Cordero curates a unique collection of modern design pieces for the home, locally made goods, along with vintage finds – all purposeful, memorable, and a little bit playful. From ceramics to textiles to wall art, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. Feeling like you need to share the love? It’s the perfect spot for putting together a terrific housewarming gift (and the staff is super helpful).
STOREonjames has been a destination for all things beautiful, handmade, and Hamilton since it opened its doors in 2014. Their selection of pottery and ceramics is especially impressive. It’s also the perfect spot to pick up a Jelly Brothers print to show your local pride. They are best known for their series of maps highlighting the different neighbourhoods of Hamilton and Southern Ontario but they have expanded their collection to include vibrant, modern illustrations of local landmarks. 
Lulu & Lavigne Home Studio is a standout among the many fantastic vendors along Locke Street South in the Kirkendall neighbourhood. This lovely shop features an impressive mix of new and vintage home decor store alongside lifestyle accessories and gifts. They love this city so much that they were inspired to design their own Hamilton graphic which they feature on clothes, totes, housewares, and even seriously adorable onesies.
And while you’re exploring Locke Street, don’t forget to stop by Pure Home Couture Apothecary. This boutique offers a variety of high-quality home fragrance products that will make your home smell amazing. From candles to diffusers to room sprays, their selection is both extensive and carefully curated.
What we love about Pure Home Couture is its commitment to using natural ingredients in its products. Here is what the owners have to say about their vision:
Our fragrance obsession began in the little shop on Locke Street which prompted us to begin making our own brand of natural Apothecary products for Bath & Home. Naturalistic scents that trigger poignant memories and transport us. Our values have always revolved around sustainability and conscious business practices, we use natural and organic, plant-based, ethically sourced ingredients. Small-batch, proudly handmade with love in beautiful Hamilton. Our wish is to spread light and ignite a fragrant journey.
If you’re in the market for some vintage finds to furnish your space, make your way over to Antique Avenue on Ottawa Street North. You never know what kind of hidden gems you’ll discover in Ontario’s premier destination for mid-century modern design and antiques.
Crown and Press Gallery and Cafe is a very welcome newcomer to Ottawa Street North. It’s the perfect place to find fantastic art. Each piece, curated by owner and Canadian artist Julie Veenstra, is available both as an original and a print. You can fill your walls with unique, local art no matter what your budget is (and enjoy a cappuccino while you browse).
Studio 205 in the International Village on King Street East is an artisanal gift shop offering a wide variety of items from exclusively Canadian designers and producers. From witty original prints to luxe coffee accessories, Studio 205 offers a little bit of everything for the discerning Hamiltonian.
It’s time to take a step away from the big box retailers because your space deserves more than the same old Homesense wall art. Luckily, you’re in the right place – Hamilton truly has some amazing local retailers to offer for design lovers on any budget.
