Interior Design Portfolio

This mid-century infill house was dark and divided. It felt crowded and that interrupted the flow and functionality for a busy family. Top of the wish list was a highly functional kitchen with lots of storage, a fireplace, and the addition of a powder room. A tall order for a small house! A new fireplace was located as a central focus allowing it to be enjoyed from all main floor living areas and creating just the right amount of visual separation. A custom-built banquette made the most of the dining and kitchen space and allowed for a much sought after island. Modern styling and decor are in keeping with the existing architecture and the client’s personal style. A fresh colour palette, along with new windows and sliding door enhance the natural light. New storage savvy millwork, which puts items behind closed doors, eases all of the client’s pain points. All that, and yes, a powder room. Special thanks to Two Birds Design for collaborating with me on this project.

This turn of the century home needed to work better for a busy family and support a home based entrepreneur’s business. A cohesive, eclectic look was achieved blending the client’s own keepsakes with new, functional and funky items. Storage was improved and sight lines to the powder room were diminished by building a tall pantry to store and charge electronic devices. The kitchen was re-organized and made more functional with a new tea station and pantry. A large living room was divided to allow a study and work area while maintaining a beautiful overall look suitable for entertaining. The large dining room was updated and will accommodate large gatherings.

A classic narrow semi detached in the east end was transformed into a condo alternative for this client. By removing all walls, the main floor was opened up to create a spacious living, dining and kitchen areas which allowed for both intimate gatherings and large groups for entertaining. The large kitchen includes additional storage under the stairs and a coffee bar. The dining room now has doors which open onto a front porch. The living area is large enough for a group of people and houses a tv as well. Storage has been integrated into all areas, including the fireplace area to maximize use of space in this downsizing exercise.

The challenge with this renovation was to open up a dark, dated kitchen and to integrate with new finishes in the living and dining areas. I had to assure the client that there would be ample light throughout once we blocked in 2 kitchen windows. Success! Structural changes prompted an OBC permit process, and ensured it was done right and safely. A fresh palette of colours and updated finishes bridge the style gap paying homage to the home’s midcentury modern details, while seamlessly mixing the client’s rustic but elegant style. Cleverly designed storage in the kitchen and entry allow better organization for a busy family.

A refresh of the existing spaces was just what this home needed. New flooring, paint, trim were added. Small arches and doorways were opened up to improve flow and use of space. An existing kitchen was updated with new cabinet finish, detailing, counters and backsplash. Furnishings were re-purposed, re-upholstered and re-located to suit the client’s needs. A tired basement was updated to allow for kids gatherings and an under utilized guest room was turned into a fresh and functional laundry room.

Downsizing from a 7,000 sf estate country home to condo suite is a challenge at the best of times. Add to this an unfinished condo requiring countless design and finish related decisions and it could be the recipe for a perfect storm. My client engaged my services to avoid just that. The key was in taking advantage of the opportunity to make planning revisions, electrical modifications and upgrades while the building was in the early stages of construction. Beginning with a furniture inventory, planning commenced, allowing the client to envision the proposed design ahead – an eclectic mix of vintage loft style, timeless classics and modern materials. The design stays true to the client’s personal taste and re purposes many of their much loved pieces, while allowing them to add a fresh new playful mix of style. The result is a harmonious mix of casual comfort, upscale sophistication, and ease of maintenance, while allowing for large gatherings of friends and family. All in a compact 1,500 sf package. Downsizing doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. I invite you to contact Lisa Robazza Design for all your design and relocation needs.

Project Year: 2019

Project Cost: $1,500,001 - $2,000,000

Country: Canada

Others who worked on this project: Lisa Robazza Design, MATERIA Interior Design Studio Inc.