A thoughtful way to cheer someone up is with flowers.
Wouldn’t you agree?
On any occasion, including a “just because…”, a bouquet of flowers can say so much without saying a word. For that reason, having a go-to flower shop in your neighbourhood makes the community you call Home that much better.
If you live in The Junction neighbourhood, you know the go-to florist is Martin’s Flowers. Located at 2862 Dundas Street West – just west of Keele Street – the shop has been part of the neighbourhood’s identity since 1898. It is rare for a family owned shop to successfully operate for over a century. Martin’s Flowers has been there when The Junction was a working-class district, when the local ban was introduced on the sale of alcohol, and even through the effects of gentrification that have brought many changes to the neighbourhood’s business community.
Currently owned by Lynn Martin Freeman, the fourth generation owner taking over from her father Bill, the shop was originally started by Lynn’s great-grandfather Alfred and included greenhouses in the back. These days, the shop is located a few doors down from the original location, in the newly-restored Campbell Block. Once a hotel and a Toronto landmark, the building has been restored to its original glory of 1888. The restoration of the building, with the overhaul of street-level retail and upper portion of the building housing luxury rental apartments, will surely make it a neighbourhood landmark once again, so it only makes sense that Martin’s Flowers would be right there with it.
I stopped by the flower shop recently to pick up a few plants for the home, as well as a little inspiration. There’s something about stepping into a beautiful flower shop that seems to slow the world down. Perhaps, it is true that plants have a calming effect and reduce stress levels. In fact, based on several experimental studies, the presence of potted plants has been found to lower blood pressure, improve well-being, lower levels of anxiety and even raise productivity. Fantastic!
Although I lack a green thumb, I love how plants can brighten up a home. Especially in the early spring days when it’s still quite cold and grey outside. Martin’s Flowers is a great place for unusual and interesting blooms, but also for the familiar leafy-green friends like the Peace Lily or perfectly pink Hydrangea. If you prefer your greens in vases, how beautiful would an arrangement of simple white daisies and freesias be?
It’s difficult not to be inspired in the Martin’s Flowers space, especially when the first thing you notice walking in is the stunning wallpapered wall behind one of the prep tables. Along with the exposed brick wall on one side of the shop and thoughtfully curated displays, the store has an understated urban chic vibe that fits right in with the neighbourhood. Martin’s Flowers slogan calls them “The Flower People” and after over a century in the business, who would argue with that?
Martin’s Flowers
2862 Dundas Street West
Toronto, Ontario M6P 1Y8
Tel. (416) 766-6121
Mon – Fri : 8:30AM – 5:30PM
Saturday : 9:00AM – 4:00PM
If you’re looking for the ease of condo-living, or want to make the leap from renter to proud owner, here’s an example of the condos available in the Junction! A Panoramic Perch On Heintzman in The Junction – now SOLD!
~ The Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage
(416) 530-1100
– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –
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