RIVERDALE KITCHEN
This professional couple was referred to us by a previous client who also owned a historic home in downtown Toronto. Their new property, a charming 1840s Victorian cottage in the heart of Leslieville, originally served as a workers' cottage. The home, spanning 1,200 square feet, features beautiful gingerbread fretwork on the exterior. The couple sought a design that would be both budget-friendly and functional, while maximizing natural light.
One key challenge was the awkward basement access through the kitchen, which we aimed to improve. We replaced the unattractive drapery with a hidden sliding door for easier basement access, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic.
To address the layout and aesthetic, we proposed a neutral color palette with gray cabinetry, helping to conceal bulky elements like the staircase and HVAC system, creating a more streamlined look. We also removed a non-functional and unsightly window on the staircase wall, which not only disrupted the flow but also took up valuable space that could be better utilized for the new coffee zone. For added visual interest, we incorporated color blocking on the windows, creating a focal point that adds depth and contrast.
To bring in more light and create a seamless connection between the interior and exterior, we replaced the existing doors with new French doors. Above them, we added a transom window, reflecting the 1840s design of the front door, further enhancing the flow of natural light throughout the space.
The couple loved the creative solutions that immeasurably increased functionality, hid awkward bulkheads, and eliminated elements that took up valuable storage space, while embracing a modern approach
COLBORNE CONDO
This project was designed for a professional couple who were the first owners of this newly built condo. This is our 3rd project and they tasked me with elevating the builder-grade kitchen and to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. To achieve this, I introduced white oak paneling throughout to add both warmth and texture to the space. The paneling not only added visual interest but also cleverly concealed the electrical panel and large heating/ventilation grills, transforming what was once a stark, white condo into a seamless, cohesive environment. The foyer, previously undistinguished, lacked storage at the entrance. To remedy this, I incorporated new white oak storage closets with an integrated mirror and a designated drop spot. A custom, four-color patterned marble floor further delineated the foyer area. A key challenge in the middle of the unit was an unattractive structural column. The solution was to design a bookcase around it, effectively hiding the column. A second matching bookcase was added to create a dining nook, complete with sconces on the outside—all in the same white oak to maintain continuity. The kitchen was designed with integrated panels to conceal all appliances and storage, creating a streamlined look. We also created a dedicated coffee nook for the couple’s specialty coffee maker, which added both charm and functionality, whether the sliding doors were open or closed. For the furnishings, we selected modern, curved pieces that contrasted beautifully with the geometric lines of the new paneling. Although the clients stayed only three years in the new space, they were delighted that the new design enabled them to sell their condo for a significantly higher price than they had paid.