City guide: Edmonton

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If the winter months have left you yearning for a little colour, there's plenty to be found at the Frog Kisser's Den (10836 124th St., 780-488-0329). Much like the frog that was turned into a prince with a little TLC, less-than-beautiful furniture that finds its way here is given new life and turned into brightly ornamented, functional household fixtures. The final products are stunning. Inspired by vibrant colours, these treasures often incorporate funky geometric designs. You'll find furniture, clocks, mirrors, lamps and even textiles like draperies made from sari silks, tablecloths and imported Indian bedspreads. New this year are brilliant wall hangings made from Punjabi tunics. The selection changes regularly, but there's always a lot to browse. And everything is priced so reasonably, it's difficult not to leave with something.

Albertans have been sleeping better since All Tucked In (10127 124th St., 780-455-7634), a bed and bath shop in the heart of the city's Gallery District, opened five years ago. It's a small shop -- only 300 square feet -- but the space has a lot to offer: lightweight goose-down duvets, washable down pillows, padded mattress covers made of wool and cotton, and luxurious silk sheets. House calls are another aspect of the store's services: owner June Kerrison can measure, design and coordinate your dream sleeping space to help you create a sanctuary that matches the rest of your home.

The combination of Victorian and art deco styles at From Times Past (12403 Stony Plain Rd., 780-448-9671; fromtimespast.com) creates a unique shopping environment. Besides luxurious bedding, bath and body lines, the store offers information sessions geared toward people who own heritage homes. Topics include home restoration techniques and choosing paint colours, millwork and woodwork.

Jilly's Home & Lifestyle (14227 23rd Ave., 780-413-4079) mixes the trendy and traditional. You'll find beautiful decor items such as unique wall prints, contemporary furniture, coordinating linens, leather benches and more. Silk flowers, jewellery and handbags round out the store's charming collection.

Planning on venturing farther afield? Check out ELLE Canada's top 10 travel destinations!