A growing trend in Toronto’s retail landscape is the rise of independent, highly curated boutiques that combine fashion, art, and lifestyle products under one roof. One standout example is Savile Studio, a 1,800-square-foot retail concept located at 173 Roncesvalles Avenue, blending eclectic design with a strong focus on community engagement and accessibility.
Founded in March 2024 by Anita Mursic, Savile Studio was created to offer a more thoughtful alternative to existing retail models. “There were a lot of market-style concepts that felt like you walked into a shop that went to IKEA, bought a bunch of shelves, and said, ‘Hey, you guys wanna put your stuff on our shelves?’” said Mursic in an interview with Retail Insider. “On the other end, there were upscale vintage stores that felt exclusive and out of reach. We wanted to create something different.”
The name Savile Studio takes inspiration from Savile Row in London, synonymous with craftsmanship and individuality. That ethos runs through the entire concept. Inside the store, customers find a blend of original artwork, curated vintage apparel, and handcrafted jewelry displayed in a space that feels inviting and authentic.
“We’ve chosen unique pieces of furniture, many inspired by antiques, to make the shop feel more like an eclectic boutique than a traditional market,” explained Mursic.
The goal was to make Savile Studio more than a store. It’s a creative hub designed to highlight independent makers and give shoppers access to unique products at accessible prices. “There’s no point in being a museum,” said Mursic. “We want people to come in, love what they see, and be able to take it home.”
Building a Community of Makers
Savile Studio operates on a collaborative model, bringing together local artists and artisans, as well as curators who source one-of-a-kind items from across the globe. “We like to call the people we work with our designers and makers versus vendors,” Mursic said. “We’ve got women who go to Europe and bring things back. One of them is a flight attendant, so you can imagine the incredible finds she sources.”
The assortment includes handmade gold-filled and sterling silver jewelry, statement pieces crafted with Venetian glass, and meticulously restored vintage Coach handbags. There are also estate finds, antique sterling platters, depression-era glassware, and even rare Canadian goose decoys. “Every time you come in, there’s something new,” Mursic said. “People love that.”
This eclectic mix resonates with customers who value originality and sustainability. The store’s emphasis on quality and thoughtful curation sets it apart in a competitive retail landscape. “Transparency and supporting our makers are priorities,” Mursic noted. “That commitment has helped us build trust. Now, most of our new applications come through word of mouth.”
A Retail Concept Driven by Design and Experience
For Mursic, the leap into retail came after years of working in customer experience design for major corporations in banking and insurance. “My background is in designing customer and user experiences, not websites, but real service design,” she said. “Those skills translated well because retail is all about creating an experience. But managing a marketplace with multiple vendors and inventory is complex. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes.”
Her experience in optimizing customer journeys is evident throughout Savile Studio. Every detail, from the curated product assortment to the store layout, is intentional. “I wanted the space to feel welcoming, not intimidating,” Mursic explained. “We play jazz music, keep the lighting soft, and make sure it smells amazing. People walk in and instantly feel relaxed.”
This focus on sensory engagement helps differentiate Savile Studio from many retail concepts that prioritize speed over experience. “Shopping here should feel like a discovery,” she said. “It’s about slowing down, finding a unique piece, and learning the story behind it. That connection is something online shopping can’t replicate.”
Why Roncesvalles?
The decision to set up shop in Roncesvalles Village was a mix of research and serendipity. Known for its European charm and strong community feel, Roncesvalles has become a destination for independent retailers, cafés, and cultural events. “We looked at a few spaces, but when we saw this one, it felt right,” said Mursic. “It didn’t need much work, and we loved the neighbourhood vibe.”
Roncesvalles has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, attracting new businesses while preserving its heritage. The area remains home to Polish bakeries and delicatessens, alongside artisanal coffee shops and specialty retailers. It’s a street where old-world tradition meets modern creativity, making it an ideal setting for Savile Studio’s curated concept.
In-Store Experience Over E-Commerce
Unlike many retailers racing to build e-commerce platforms, Savile Studio has opted to remain firmly rooted in physical retail. While the team occasionally fulfills requests through Instagram, shipping remains rare. “We’ve shipped a few things, but managing returns and logistics isn’t feasible for us right now,” said Mursic. “Our focus is on creating an in-store experience where people can take their time, discover something special, and connect with the story behind each piece.”
To enhance that experience, the store features a carefully chosen scent, and presents merchandise in a way that feels immersive without being overwhelming. “People lose track of time in here,” Mursic said with a smile. “They linger, and that’s exactly what we want.”
Looking Ahead: Expansion Plans
Savile Studio has seen strong community support since its opening in March 2024, and Mursic is now considering growth opportunities. “We’d like to open another shop or two in the next year,” she shared. While plans remain in the research phase, Toronto is likely to remain the focus for future locations. “We want to grow thoughtfully and maintain the same level of curation and quality,” Mursic emphasized.
For now, the original Roncesvalles location continues to attract loyal locals and curious tourists alike, including a visitor from Scotland who recently purchased an antique Canadian goose decoy and had it shipped home. “Stories like that remind us we’re creating something meaningful,” Mursic said.
