Douglas Design Studio have been shortlisted for Luxury Residence – Global Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2022.

Douglas Design Studio’s crisply tailored Toronto home is well-structured, modern, warm and versatile. It is a city house that lives large. The family home offers an urban refuge with a contemporary, minimalist and inviting interior.

Sitting in an established pocket of Toronto with traditional homes, Douglas Design Studio ensures a balance was struck between the traditional, classic architecture and thoroughly modern interior design. A consistent story of luxurious simplicity is told through different spaces in the home. Contrasts in blackened wood and white with richly coloured and textured fabrics in the dining room versus warm natural woods with plastered linen light fixtures all add to the experience. The entrance, hallways and stairs transition the owners from an uncontrollable outside world to a serene personal space. The custom stained black staircase with an oak wood stringer in the main stairwell is a defining element of the modern and minimalist interior.

The space is a custom-fit, authentic reflection of its inhabitants. Clever design strategies were used to accommodate the wishes of each family member. The hidden bar, for example, addresses the difference between a wife who does not drink and a husband who is an avid wine collector. Purposeful spaces were also created to display the clients’ art collection. The guiding principle in the design was the family’s values and rhythms, ensuring an intergenerational family home and refuge to enjoy for decades.

Rather than a living room, the family room is designed for informal lounging and entertainment. A custom designed credenza from the Jeffrey Douglas Studio Line hugs the back of the sofa, and a powerful stone installation combines a fireplace and television. The clean, richly contrasted aesthetic of the dining room is defined by its central art piece, custom designed and installed by local artist Anthony Valin. Black wainscoting floats from the wall, and vibrant drapery in a contemporary pattern adds a punch of colour. In the kitchen, a sculptural solution for the ceiling accommodates mechanical necessities and adds loft to the centre of the space. A caterers’ kitchen provides hidden space for entertaining and a bright breakfast corner invites family conversation. The calm and meditative master bedroom is an uncluttered yet fully functional space, featuring large panels of matte-finish wood. The master ensuite is calm, with grey and white stone and painted surfaces.

A fully-equipped spa/gym is a complete wellness centre with a Scandinavian-style sauna featuring an elegant custom sink and mirror, with a unique black frame structure that holds extra space for shelving and towels. The basement room does not sacrifice style for function with its custom cut large format porcelain tile doors hiding copious storage. The outdoor pool area features a cabana with a kitchenette and outdoor television for summer movies.

Douglas Design Studio

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