Emily McLean grew up inspired by the intricate designs and products on display at World Mosaic, a Vancouver-based tile store owned by her mother, Patricia McLean. “Growing up around the tile industry gave me an eye for design.” Emily recalls.
The mother-daughter team joined forces in November 2014 to open a new retail venture, Goodge Place. The beautifully curated concept shop stocks a dazzling collection of imported gifts, housewares, books, flowers and other lifestyle goods, and also features an in-store café. “We want customers to think about how they can make their space beautiful, and what they enjoy," says Emily. "And that's what we offer at Goodge Place, so you can surround yourself with beautiful things.”
Before launching her Vancouver shop, Emily worked in the film industry and spent 15 years in London, England. Her UK media career, focused on film dubbing and subtitles, meant working with various European studios. Emily notes that collaborating with individuals in multiple countries every day gave her a real sense of different cultures. Travel in Europe inspired her, and she discovered a different way of life and business. “Combining books, boutiques and cafés is common in Europe; it makes for a one-stop shop concept.” Today, Emily brings that European sensibility to her charming South Granville boutique.
This little black-and-white gem is a combo coffee bar/shop that sells everything from fresh flowers to jewellery to bikes, with the goods coming from top brands like House of Hackney and Mitchell Black. The shop has just two tables inside and two out, plus a few seats at the bar, so seating is at a premium – but with so many treasures to look through, there’s little reason to sit down. The coffee is Milano, the tea is Bellocq and the bakery items are from Faubourg and Cadeaux Bakery.
British expats and lovers of all things English will swoon over the luxurious knick-knacks at this concept shop in Fairview. Part decor emporium, part coffee shop, part design lab – Goodge Place is a multipurpose space from mother-daughter duo Patricia and Emily McLean. Shop here for whimsical china plates, loose-leaf teas, fresh-cut flowers, artsy coffee-table books, delicate French cheese knives, silk scarves and many more indulgent hostess gifts. Looking for something a little quirky? We can’t get enough of the vibrantly patterned oven mitts, mugs, aprons and tea towels from London-based lifestyle label House of Hackney.