Design and Renovation Case Study: Urban Clean Casual
June 11, 2025
This century old, Toronto, ON semi-detached home had seen better days when we arrived on the scene. Having gone through a couple of poor renovations, the home was not meeting the needs of our clients. In addition to wanting a brighter, more inviting aesthetic, they also had a number of more functional requirements.
They preferred a more open plan when entertaining.
They needed more storage and a better kitchen layout.
Mobility issues required that we find a way to bring the basement laundry pair up to the main floor.
One big impediment to gaining the necessary space to meet our clients’ needs, was an awkwardly placed powder room. It cut off the kitchen from the rest of the main floor, relegating it to the back corner of the home. By moving the powder room under the stairs, we were able to not only reclaim that space but also open it up to the dining room with a peninsula.
The low window in the old kitchen was replaced and raised in order to allow a full run of counter along each side. Because the space was tight, the specific colour selections were important. The wall colour, Benjamin Moore Calm, was used throughout the house as well as on the cabinetry. The black leathered granite counter blends seamlessly with the dark sink and range. This gives the illusion of a longer counter. We used Benjamin Moore’s Fairview Taupe on the lower cabinetry to further reduce contrast with the counter while adding character.
By creating interest in the range hood and adding back several sources of light, this drab, dated and poorly functioning kitchen, was transformed into a beautiful, highly functional hub of the house.
The luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout the house adding to the feeling of more space. And, finally, we were able to tuck in a stacked laundry pair at one end by the mudroom door without disturbing the kitchen aesthetic.
More photos of the project are found on its portfolio page here.
Are you stumped by a challenging space? Are you ready to experience a beautifully furnished and decorated home that is also highly functional? Fill out a project inquiry form. We’d love to help.