One of the coolest shops on Gertrude Street, this is the kind of shop that has upside-down potted plants hanging in its window. Just cuz they're awesome. Pushing the boundaries of design, Design Dispensary is is chock-full of the coolest trinkets this side of Europe. You'll never know what you'll find there. Votive silhouettes of cities? Cool chopsticks? Spiky candleholders you can put in a wineglass? Check, check, and check. I like to take friends who are visiting here -- it's worthwhile spending 15-20 minutes checking out all their cool wares. And it makes me feel cooler bringing people there: "See what a great place I live? This is just down the street!" read more

Apparently at Design Dispensary it's considered "STRANGE" to browse and then ask for a business card. I was treated extraordinarily poorly at this store! Maybe they are homophobic or just don't like people they don't know in their store browsing. You'd do a lot better buying something amazing online. Where you don't have to deal with the bad attitudes of the staff. read more