The Spotted Frog:
A Passion for Beautiful Spaces Story by Sarah Gordon
Photos submitted
The Spotted Frog is a business name I have always been curious about, and I was sure there must be a story behind it. Owner Huong Nguyen explains the name is multi-layered. She says, “The frog is a powerful symbol. It also has family significance. People like the image and it’s a good conversation starter.” The Spotted Frog is a lifestyle boutique that offers a beautiful collection of high-quality Canadian made custom furniture and home décor. The business model, like the company name, is multi-layered. It keeps evolving, and like the frog, it keeps hopping along.
When you meet Huong, it’s hard not to be energized by her passion for beautiful spaces. The Spotted Frog opened in 2008. It was originally located two blocks south on No. 1 Road. In 2015, it moved and it turns out the new location has been extremely advantageous. Huong says, “Furniture drives the business. We have a private loading zone and much more parking than the former location did.” “The business grew organically to include interior design. Customers would ask for my design advice,” she says. As a result, she created an in-house design studio to meet with clients about her award-winning interior design services. One of her projects was featured on HGTV and the design firm has been recognized as a winner of the Best of Houzz for eight consecutive years. Her extensive experience includes styling, decorating, renovating, and designing custom luxury homes. She comments, “We bring to life spaces that exude function, beauty, and harmonious flow.” 8
Huong’s signature look is a dynamic space innovatively mixed with various styles. She loves injecting color, patterns, and textures to create a bold and highly unique environment. The store is beautifully curated with beds, couches, chairs, tables, wall art, clocks, pillows, and other home décor. The majority of the furniture is handcrafted custom pieces, which means there are plenty of options to select from. Huong’s latest obsession is plants. She has a selection to choose from and confesses that the Swiss cheese tropical plant makes her feel happy and is her current favourite. She speculates that the downtime with COVID19 has driven more people to reconnect with nature. The relaxed Boho feel is making a comeback. As a result, you will see rattan, linens in earth tones, and a flashback to the 1970s,
StevestonInsider.com
October - November 2020
