The home is a thoughtful meditation on contemporary and traditional design language and modes of habitation. Despite meaningful, pragmatic interventions that facilitate the bustling day-to-day activities of a young family and introduce a contemporary design language, there is an intentional deference to the home’s historical context, spatial concepts, and material patina. The material palette is grounded by new deep, rich oak floors that speak to the original’s tone and texture. Against this backdrop, a palette of light wood tones, monolithic stone slabs, and polished concrete evokes a serene aesthetic while retaining an impression of integrity and solidity. Symmetry, vistas, and terminating views are inherent qualities of the traditional architecture and are thoughtfully deployed in complementary fashion. The new mudroom entry—level with grade—creates a longitudinal arrival sequence through a series of framed portals and passageways that stretch the length of the house, transecting the traditional centre hall axis. A parallel transverse axis connects spaces more intimately along the rear of the home terminating at the dramatic, sunken dining room open on two sides with glazing and level with a future backyard terrace.
Upon entry, one such axial view through a series of framed portals presents an immediate connection to the exterior. Throughout the suite, wood-clad portals emphasize thresholds signalling passage between open concept entertaining areas and intimate private spaces. At the heart of the home, the kitchen is anchored by an expansive island sculpted in a richly textured natural stone that features full eat-in seating to complement the formal dining area. Aesthetics and functionality are balanced through the inclusion of discreetly accessible working pantries. Separate full-size appliances, counter-top accessories, food preparation surfaces, or bulk storage are seamlessly integrated into the bustle of everyday routines while remaining out of sight when desired. Living rooms feature built-in libraries equipped with a writing desk for the occasional letter or late-night email.
An axial corridor separates the intimacy of the principal bedroom from the remainder of the suite. A choreographed path through a series of turns maintains a discrete sense of privacy without the need for closed doors. Similarly, the primary bathroom is an extension of the suite, pressed against the exterior wall and bathed in natural light. A window frames the freestanding tub, bookended by dark, textured alcoves containing the vanities and walk-in shower.
Reflect’s comprehensive scope provided the opportunity for a truly seamless aesthetic, consistent from the architecture to the interiors and brand identity. The suite features lighting, furniture, art, and accessories selected and arranged by Reflect that complement the larger design gestures from the architectural scale of the building down to the visual identity and promotional material. A combination of Canadian and international designers represent a globally cosmopolitan aesthetic and point of view. An emphasis is placed on richly tactile, honestly fabricated, and contextually relevant works and objects across disciplines.