LIVING WITH WATER IN MIND

Toronto, ON

In this compact Toronto living room, we pursued a design that feels expansive, tactile, and deeply connected to its waterfront setting. With limited square footage, every decision was purposeful — from material selection to multifunctional details — to ensure the space feels both calm and adaptable.

At the heart of the design is a bespoke millwork solution that dissolves the boundaries between storage, display, and workspace. Custom cabinetry with textured fronts conceals clutter while providing generous storage. A concealed pull-out desk supports remote work without interrupting the room’s serenity. Open walnut shelves introduce warmth and visual rhythm, balancing the light painted surfaces and anchoring the room with natural grain and depth.

A large-scale artwork — chosen for its expansive horizon and water-referencing palette — hangs with intentional quietness above the seating zone. Its sweeping presence draws the eye outward, amplifying the sense of openness and echoing the nearby lake beyond the window.

Natural materials define the tactile language of the space. Soft woven textiles and plush seating invite lingering, while a wood-tone coffee table and living greenery layer in warmth and tactility. These elements work together to temper the neutral palette with texture, creating a cozy yet refined atmosphere.

This project celebrates the poetry of restraint: spaces that feel generous because they are thoughtfully composed, materials that speak through touch and tone, and décor that reflects a deep connection to the waterfront lifestyle.