Both Knox and Henderson streets are constantly blossoming with new restaurants and shops. The area’s impossible not to love (minus the parking sitch). I think one of its finest gems is the Iota art-meets-gift shop. Owners Dan Dean and Mickey Miller have been there a long time, peddling a handpicked collection of art (like giant, vintage clay condiments by ceramist Karen Shapiro and gorgeous pet portraits by Amanda Jones) and gadgets (Alessi kitchenware, quirky lamps and candles, and creative clocks). I’m willing to bet anyone who goes in there stays at least 10 minutes longer than they originally planned. Every time you think you’ve discovered all the cool things Iota has to offer, BAM, you see a heart-shaped spoon for eating ice cream. Or a silver vase made of paintbrushes. Or a solar powered light-up jar. Dan and Mickey let me stay as long as I liked, snapping photos of my favorite things. There were about 50. I’ve edited the list to 11. Enjoy.
1. Cate & Levi winter hat, $35. Made with reclaimed wool and soft fleece, each hat is unique.
2. Karlsson book table clock, under $50. Just snuggle this stylish clock between books.
3. Decor Tape adhesive ribbon, $4.50/roll or $12.59/3-pack. Decorate and redecorate gift boxes. Ribbon in removable.
4. Gummylamps light-up gummy bears, $28. These are flying off the shelves, and it isn’t hard to see why. Squeeze the belly to turn it on and off.
5. Alessi bunny and carrot paper towel holder, $56. Kitchens shouldn’t be so serious?
6. Swell 24-oz water bottle, $45. This chic, eco friendly jug sends 10 percent of proceeds to building water sources in Africa and also comes in a smaller, $35 size in a rainbow of colors.
7. Bookrest Lamp by Suck UK, under $100. This thing is genius. Read by the light and rest your book on it to keep your page.
8. Cate & Levi stuffed frog, $80. You’d have to hold it to understand its power. Once I picked this little guy up, I couldn’t put him down.
9. Art print plates, $9 to $12. These shockingly affordable plates are perfect for history lovers.
10. Alessi Tripod, $50. Lay this string out for hot pots, dishes, and serving plates.
11. Marie Olofsson “Shine” tealight holder, under $50. Tealights deserve a beautiful home, too.
