City guide: Montreal

The tiny Qui Dort Dine (4393 St-Denis St.; 514-288-3836) offers a large selection of linens -- as co-owner Muriel Rajaonina says, "everything fabric for the home." The pure white cotton/linen sheet sets are the perfect mix of luxury and practicality, while the linen tea towels in exquisite patterns and colours will last for decades. The store also offers a beautiful selection of draperies and indulgent French toiletries.

For more than 50 years, Maison du beau (1373 Mont-Royal Ave. E.; 514-523-8162, 877-488-0080; maisondubeau.com) has imported high-quality fabrics from Europe and Asia. The store carries the latest in luxurious textiles from France, Italy, England and China. Not sure if that vibrant silk will coordinate with your sofa and area rug? They'll send swatches (at no charge) across Canada so you can see if the fabrics will work with your existing decor. The website is updated regularly, letting you view what's in stock before you visit the store.

We've known about the high-quality ancient Chinese furnishings at Kalaë (1600 Marie-Anne St. E.; 514-528-9343; kalae.ca), but its accessories collection is one of the best-kept secrets in the city. Along with armoires, apothecary cabinets and all kinds of tables, you'll find opium cushions, terracotta pots and baskets, as well as affordable gift ideas and a warm welcome. New products arrive every four to six months. A store to discover, if you haven't already.

Interior designer Scott Yetman's Celadon (1850 Notre Dame St. W.; 514-932-3306, 877-335-2366; celadoncollection.com) is a beautiful design store that carries all of his decor favourites, including Fortuny lighting and his own line of signature furniture handcrafted by fine artisans. Two new collections this year include Oly Studio and Currey and Co. Their flagship store at 186 Peel St. will expand to triple its size this summer, offering more lines and selections than ever before!

Photo courtesy Tourisme Montréal

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