Self-employment
Solutions for modern livingAnyone watching the changing Toronto skyline will know that the condo market in this city is hot. Eager to live downtown, high condo prices often force buyers to settle for less space. ROGER PIERCE -- www.bizlaunch.ca |
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 [ 2007-10-03 ] |
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"We specialize in stylish solutions for today's modern living challenges," entrepreneur Manny Machado says.
A residential designer and furniture importer, Machado recently opened Elbowroom Studio (Elbowrooms.ca), a concept showroom specializing in small space lifestyles located at 1071 King St. W.
Machado makes life much more enjoyable for people living in smaller condos and houses with his highly functional, yet fashionable, design solutions.
"As an urban space stylist, I really try to collaborate with my clients to ensure we create an environment that maximizes their use of space with individual style," he explains.
"I provide space design services, site consultations, create floor plans, solve closet and storage issues, advise on colour themes and work with a reliable team of tradespeople to make it all come together."
Machado started working in the design industry five years ago and launched his business two years ago. "The toughest part of being an entrepreneur is not having anyone else to blame but myself when things go wrong," he jokes.
His innovative Elbowroom Studio really shows people what can be done in space as small as 400 sq. ft. Urbanites can purchase solutions such as revolving wall beds containing functional shelves and desks, sofas that transform into bunk beds, or beds that convert into modular seating.
Machado likes to showcase Canadian furniture designers as well as new designers in his studio. "There's a lot of really talented piece designers in this country offering fabulous space solutions, so we do our part to show them off," he says.
By building a strong brand around his unique gallery approach, Machado aims to expand into other communities so he can help more people live in small spaces.
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SMALL BIZ MONTH EVENTS
A weekly look into lessons learned from new entrepreneurs
October is Small Business Month across Canada and it's a time when entrepreneurs get the spotlight they deserve. Across the country, you'll find thousands of events to help you build your small business. Here's a few events offered in the GTA:
- Chamber of Commerce. Most local Chambers offer special events during Small Business Month. Find your local Chamber of Commerce at www.chamber.ca.
- Staples BizLaunch Seminars, STAPLES Business Depot, evenings 6:30 to 8 p.m. This national retailer is hosting a variety of events and seminars to celebrate Small Business Month. Visit www.staples.ca/bizlaunch.
- Small Business Forum. Marriott Hotel Toronto, Oct. 9. Presented by Enterprise Toronto and Centennial College, this free one-day business conference and trade show features over 30 speakers, 40 exhibitors and 1,500 entrepreneurs. Visit www.enterprisetoronto.com.
- SOHO/SME Business Conference & Expo, Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Oct. 16. A one-day event for new and existing small business owners, featuring a trade show, keynote speakers, an ask-the-expert panel and networking opportunities. Visit www.soho.ca.
- Business Development Bank, various locations, Oct. 14 to 20. Every year for the past 28 years, BDC has organized excellent conferences, trade fairs, seminars, workshops and business luncheons to support and recognize Canadian entrepreneurs across the country. Visit www.bdc.ca.
- Free Bell BizLaunch Seminar "How to Create a Million $ Idea," Metro Hall Room 308, 55 John St. Oct. 16, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Visit www.bizlaunch.ca.
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