Cathy Dobson
In the early days when she operated Kind Décor out of her home, Janet Hofstra frequently noticed customers admiring how she furnished and decorated her own house.
At the time, she was refinishing furniture and selling it online.
“When people came for pick up, most said they liked my furniture and the things I have,” she said.
“I know what I love and I trust those feelings when I shop. I also know that other people want something stylish.”
Before going into business for herself, Hofstra’s professional background involved working in a bank or office. She longed for a creative outlet, having immigrated to Canada from Holland 10 years ago with her husband and three sons.
She started by refinishing her own furniture, then accepting other refinishing projects.
“I realized I had a passion for it and began to dream about my own store,” she said.
Last Christmas, she began selling accessories online too. When that went well, she and husband Jeroen started hunting for a retail location.
“We always felt like Bright’s Grove or Point Edward would be good for a store,” said Hofstra. “Both are small communities where I feel at home.”
They found an available storefront at 123 Michigan Ave. in Point Edward and began renovations. They also took a trip to Holland and filled a shipping container with antique furniture to refinish, as well as new accessories like lamps, candle holders, and blankets.
That overseas shipment fills about half the new store. The rest of the inventory was sourced from Ontario suppliers who make charcuterie boards, signs, throw pillows, dishes and more.
Kind Décor opened in mid-July and sales have been so brisk the Hofstras are planning another shopping trip to Holland.
Much of the store’s inventory is in soothing greys, browns and other earthy tones.
“I like a quiet, natural colour base that can be complemented with smaller, more colourful accessories that pop,” she explained.
Pottery by the Dutch company Brynxz is among Hoftra’s favourite items. Foot-high candleholders sell for $32.95.
Large table lamps made from water jugs imported from India come from another Dutch company called Aura Peeperkorn Interieur. They retail for $649.
Kind Décor’s showroom has a variety of tables, hutches, wardrobes and cupboards, all refinished in the low-sheen style Hofstra prefers.
For instance, an 80-year-old solid oak hutch from Holland is priced at $1,699.
“These are definitely all pieces I love,” she said. “I choose things that I would love to have and I’m finding out that other people love them too.”
Charcuterie boards, benches, stools and tables made in Komoka are selling quickly. A small walnut board is $32.95 while one made from cherry wood is $44.95.
Kind Décor at 123 Michigan Ave. is open Tuesday to Saturday (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) or by chance. Call 519-381-5165. Items are still sold online as well at www.kinddecor.ca.
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