In this exclusive series, photographer Voula Monoholias goes behind the curtain to see where and how creatives live.
This week, Woodlight light fixtures’ chief designer invited Monoholias into his Toronto home near Yong and Eglington.
Title, Company Name
I’m chief designer, manufacturer, marketer and bottlewasher for Woodlight, a company I started last year. Alex, my wife, is my sounding board and overall cheerleader!
You’ve lived in the same home for over 20 years. What have been the biggest changes you’ve seen in the Yonge and Eglington neighbourhood in this time?
Life here lies between the suburbs and downtown, both geographically and socially. Not a lot changes, and that’s the way most people like it. Recently we’re seeing more houses ripped down, but most are replaced by what I call faux chateaus…similar to what they’re replacing and frankly not great design. Close to the corner of Yonge and Eligible, a mega high-rise condo went up several years ago. That cost councillor Anne Johnston her job after a nasty campaign mounted by conservative elements, but, strangely, no one seems too concerned about that building now. Toronto is changing all the time, and I think people should embrace that change.
How did you get into designing custom lights?
I had an opportunity to start Woodlight after finishing a long-term communications contract. Before university, I was a woodworker, cabinet maker and finish carpenter in Vancouver. Alex and I were looking for an interesting light fixture made of wood to complete a recent kitchen and dining-room renovation, but we couldn’t find anything we liked at a reasonable price. So I made one myself, and that’s how it all began!
How does lighting affect a space?
Interesting, well-designed light fixtures have a huge impact on any room. They can make a real statement for not a lot of money. Many of my fixtures are made with wood veneer. They give off a warm glow that makes any room more inviting and comfortable. Recently I’ve been working with an amazing photographer, Tony Koukos, to create pendant fixtures that are pieces of art!
If you weren’t designing lighting, what would you be doing?
Probably writing, it’s been my core career skill and something I enjoy doing…especially when I’m into the topic and meeting interesting people. Years ago I did a lot of freelance writing, including a series for the Globe and Mail on Toronto architects and the homes they lived in. It would be fun to freelance again, but right now I’m too busy with Woodlight.
If you could have a drink in your home with a famous someone, who would it be and why?
Rick Mercer would be at the top of my list. I always watch his show and admire his political and social messages. Smart, funny people who don’t take themselves too seriously, I have lots of time for.
Toronto’s best kept secret?
When I first moved to Toronto 30 years ago, I liked the Hungarian Goulash Party Tavern and Restaurant on Queen West. It was a cheap and cheerful local joint that served great schnitzel, but sadly is long gone. Now when I’m in the mood for comfort food, I go to the Europe Restaurant and Bar at Bathurst and Lawrence. It’s almost as good as the Goulash Party!
Do you have any advice for aspiring creatives?
My approach to design is similar to how I write. I’ve always believed the secret to good writing is rewriting. I do the research, assemble content and start putting things together see how they work together. I tend to design in the shop by building models, assembling a prototype, looking for feedback from retailers and peers, and refining. The important thing is don’t overthink. Just get started, and see what happens!
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Voula Monoholias is a contributing photographer for Toronto Standard. Follow her on Twitter @voulavous.
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