One man's trash is John Jakeman's treasure. John is the owner of GUFF, a vintage furniture store in the downtown hub. Reconditioning furniture is the secret to many of the items he sells at GUFF. He visits factories and offices no longer in operation to handpick all manner of materials and transforms them into newly created pieces. "I love it," says John. "You spot a few interesting pieces and wonder if anyone else has also spotted them. It’s hard work, but I just love the hunt."
If you’re looking for clean lines and furniture with character, GUFF has plenty of pieces from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. “A lot of it is Scandinavian. It has a good design and personality,” says John.
With a huge collection of teak credenzas, upholstered and chrome frame chairs, sleek coffee and dining room tables, Riverside’s massive bulk barn for mid-century modern furniture has everything you need to tastefully decorate your home with a vintage edge. You’ll also find art and accessories, stereo equipment and vinyl, so when you walk through the doors, be ready for a serious peruse.
The impressive selection of vintage and custom pieces in-store is updated regularly on the website. You can find refinished teak tables and chairs, rosewood items, floor lamps and even quirky things like leather suitcases to make your own unique home decor statement. If you don’t find anything that quite strikes your fancy, ask GUFF to make you something that does. And, if you’re disposing of period furniture in your home, GUFF is always on the lookout for merchandise.
This Leslieville store is truly a neighbourhood favourite for many reasons: the staff is extremely knowledgeable about the details of each piece, inventory is posted online and updated frequently and they’ll buy your mid-century furniture if you’re looking to sell. While the store is a bit on the small side, the space is well-utilized and furniture is organized and easy to find. As well, they have
their own line of furniture if you’re looking for an original piece.