Inspired by the Japandi design trend– combining Japanese and Scandinavian influences– designer Diana Bastone of Diana Bastone Designs embraced clean lines, minimalism and the concept of ‘less is more’ for her latest home design project. “This approach resonated with my clients, who were seeking a serene home that reflected their minimalist lifestyle and accommodated their frequent travels,” says Bastone.
The couple and their daughter sought a home where they could spend quality time together, yet have designated spaces for entertaining guests. “With a vision for a more functional layout, my team and I transformed the individual rooms into an open-concept kitchen and eating area, eliminating the formal dining area to create a more casual atmosphere,” says Bastone.
The kitchen, which serves as the heart of the home, features a spacious island with a sink, ample prep space, and a view of the backyard. A large sliding glass door further enhances the space, inviting indoor-outdoor living. The addition of a round dining table, comfortably seating 10, fosters engaging conversations and adds to the home’s welcoming ambience. “Embracing a clean, minimal, and contemporary design, we focused on easy maintenance and equipped the kitchen for the couple’s love of entertaining.”
To ensure that each room flowed into the next, Bastone created a neutral colour palette (with touches of dark hues), which focused on rich materials and surprise elements such as textured wall treatments in the eating area, lounge and master bedroom. “The primary bedroom exudes luxury and effortless elegance through carefully selected bedding. Featuring luxurious linen and an array of textures in neutral hues, the bedding creates a serene and inviting atmosphere, embodying the essence of comfort and tranquillity,” explains Bastone.
Bastone’s clients also expressed a desire for more storage, something that was lacking in key rooms in their previous home. “When my team and I designed the footprint of the home, we made sure to create as much storage as possible,” explains Bastone.
A designated area was created by combining the laundry room and mudroom. “The original layout featured cramped and dim spaces for laundry and mudroom purposes. By merging the two, we transformed the area into a spacious room with ample coat and shoe storage, a comfortable seating bench, and dedicated laundry space equipped with a washer, dryer and folding surface,” says Bastone.
Additionally, she incorporated a specific spot for their furry family member, complete with a cabinet for his belongings and a place for him to eat. The result is a bright, airy laundry/mudroom that suits everyone’s needs perfectly.
With a focus on low maintenance and a clutter-free environment, Bastone curated a clean, simple design palette tailored to the family’s lifestyle.
Photos Stephani Buchman