ATTIC

Riley Snelling

• Architects

ATTIC, a Toronto-based ethical fine jewellery company, has unveiled a new design for their East End studio. After eight years in business, including six in their present location, co-founders Melissa Gobeil and Susan Shaw felt the need for a new, smart layout to accommodate their growing team, expanding clientele, and specific design processes. They enlisted Toronto-based space and object designer Simone Ferkul to embody the essence of the brand's evolution.

photo_credit Riley Snelling — Riley Snelling

The vision was a functional studio, melding materials with space, designer with client, and process with experience. From goldsmithing and 3D modelling, to custom jewellery design consultations and client shopping, this space needed to work hard and remain aesthetically appealing. With a product line embodying simple, timeless design, and crafted from ethical materials such as recycled gold and conflict-free and Canadian diamonds, achieving a balance of beauty, approachability, and longevity was paramount in the revisioning process.

"It was important to us to work with local and Canadian collaborators," says Susan Shaw. "Many of the elements were custom-made for our space as a reflection of our brand—elevated, unique, but classic, approachable, and comfortable."

"Throughout the project, we prioritized celebrating and uniting Canadian makers, crafting a space that honoured artistry," says Simone Ferkul. "This was achieved through an open, symmetrical layout made of honest materials and elevated by meticulous detailing."

"From the material selection to the jewellery display layout, we were highly involved, working in close collaboration with Simone," adds Melissa Gobeil. “The result is a thoughtful space that continues to invite transparency into the jewellery-making process, while elevating the client design experience."

A palette grounded in textured minimalism and artisanal craft became the supporting background to ATTIC’s jewellery. The space is anchored by a custom jewellery bar made of Ceppo Antico, a unique marble dappled with an array of mineral inclusions, mirroring the jewellery it displays. The geometrical walnut stools, designed by Ferkul and constructed by Hamilton-based Tetome House, provide a comfortable perch for dreaming up distinct designs. The space is flanked by custom-stained white oak veneer millwork, illuminated by suspended linear modular lighting by Anony, and refined with vintage and locally sourced accessories.