Umbra

Active

Overview

Umbra is a Toronto-based housewares company specializing in modern home accessories and decor, including storage, lighting, and furniture items. Founded in 1979, it distributes over 2,000 products through 25,000 retailers in 120 countries, with offices in multiple regions including the US, Europe, Brazil, and China. The company employs an international team of in-house designers focused on functional, original designs for everyday use.¹³⁴

History

Umbra was founded in 1979 by childhood friends Les Mandelbaum and Paul Rowan after Rowan, a graphic designer, created a window shade he couldn't find commercially. The company expanded from this single product into a global housewares brand, opening its first store in Toronto's Queen West District in 2007. It remains privately owned and led by its original founders, with production primarily in China and retail presence in multiple countries.¹²³

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Bath Accessories	Functional modern bathroom storage	$10 - $100
Kitchen Storage	Innovative organizational tools	$15 - $150
Wall Decor	Contemporary art and shelves	$20 - $200
Hooks & Storage	Versatile space-saving solutions	$10 - $80
Picture Frames	Stylish photo display options	$15 - $100
Clocks	Minimalist timepieces	$30 - $150

Manufacturing

Umbra's production is mainly carried out in China. The company designs products in-house in Toronto with an international team but outsources manufacturing. It maintains a global distribution network from this setup.³⁶

Notable Products

Original Window Shade - The inaugural product that launched the company in 1979.
Shift Collection - Modular storage system sold via dedicated e-commerce.
Hub Clock - Popular minimalist wall clock design.
Cielo Laundry Hamper - Floating-effect laundry basket using innovative materials.
Truss Photo Frame - Geometric picture frame known for modern aesthetic.

Reputation

Umbra is recognized by design enthusiasts for its accessible modern home products that blend functionality with creativity. Professionals note its global reach and consistent output of original designs over 45 years. Some critiques focus on outsourced manufacturing in China potentially affecting perceived quality control.¹²³

Sources (7)