In Calgary’s Mission district, Fieldstudy has quietly become a cornerstone of thoughtful living. Founded and owned by Sarah Knorr, the lifestyle boutique curates handcrafted, ethically sourced goods from across North America and beyond. With an emphasis on timeless design, functionality, and care, Fieldstudy offers customers more than just products—it offers a philosophy rooted in sustainability, connection, and pride in the things we own.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Fieldstudy is a lifestyle boutique that sells handcrafted, well-made goods from artisans across North America and ethically sourced internationally. We bring in brands and items we love and want to share with our community, but first and foremost, pieces/objects that are thoughtful, functional in design, and made with care, love, and skill.
What made you want to do this work?
I love travelling and finding interesting boutiques and treasures along the way. I wanted to bring the brands that I discovered and loved to my local community.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Fieldstudy was created with the vision to provide high-quality goods with timeless appeal for a thoughtful way of living. We are selling a lifestyle which represents moving away from wasteful consumption and taking pride in the things we own. Products should last a lifetime rather than clutter a landfill.
Who is your clientele?
Thoughtful and creative humans who appreciate unique, high-quality goods. Individuals looking to move away from fast fashion—seeking well-made pieces they will have and love for a lifetime. People looking for unique, thoughtful gifts. People from out of town looking for locally made products.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We have a brick-and-mortar shop as well as an online store. We also host pop-ups and workshops.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
We are located at 102-1812 4th Street SW in the heart of Mission. We are beside Maude Kids and across from Class Clown—two local favourites!
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services?
“Where and how was this made?” We are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the products we bring in—every artisan has a story and each piece is a representation of that. We pride ourselves on bringing in unique brands not only to Calgary but to Canada. Julie is also a textile artist—you can find her pieces in the store—and she is proficient in knowing quality fabrics and tailoring.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is making connections with our customers and other local business owners. We have been open for 9 years now and have made some amazing relationships with the people who walk through our door. As a two-person team, my store manager Julie and I have created a relaxing and personal shopping experience for our customers. We want our customers to feel at home when they are here.
Recently, we have had to pivot how we order due to the current political and economic climate and the tariffs that have been put into play. We are sourcing more Canadian-made goods, as well as looking at European and Australian brands.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Not so much a joke, but we get asked a lot if we are new to the neighbourhood (even though we’ve been in the same location for 9 years). We don’t do a lot of advertising and signage—mostly word of mouth and Instagram—so we don’t take it personally. It’s good to know people are still discovering us!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
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