Kensington Shops

The name Seeds has several meanings. For starters, it's a nod to the store's physical space, which occupies what used to be a flower shop in Kensington. It's also a reference to what the owners describe as the store's duality as a place to see (they host exhibitions and special projects with artists and designers) as well as a design store (hence the DS). The entire space is completely shoppable, so you can find everything here from hand-thrown clay pots, to art-inspired jewelry, to works of contemporary art.

While the new Design Museum isn't open quite yet, the shop is already up and running and provides a tiny sneak preview into architect John Pawson's vision for the museum. Colorful design objects, gadgets, toys, and gizmos are carefully arranged on a Vitsoe shelving system on dark grey walls, creating a beautiful and contrasting display. It's a great selection of small, affordable gifts and more high-concept pieces for the real design lover like John Pawson designed ceramic bowls, a Barber & Osgerby teapot, Artek's Alvar Aalto stools and the like. It all bodes well for the grand opening in late November.

The Organic Pharmacy specializes in herbal and homeopathic treatments and supplements and is a place where you can get a custom mix to suit your specific needs. You'll also find a great range of beauty and skin-care products that you can also buy Organic Pharmacy products at goop. There are locations throughout the city in Chelsea, Covent Garden, Kensington, Soho, and Hampstead.