This extensive renovation was driven by the client’s need for more space, functionality and a home that truly reflected their vibrant lifestyle. With a busy family of five, they needed a layout that worked for their daily routines, while maintaining a sense of style and personality.
The solution? A 400-sq.-ft. extension across all three levels, underpinning the basement for added height, a complete reconfiguration of the main floor and carefully curated design details that merged beauty with practicality. The original house was 1,000 sq. ft., and the expansion dramatically changed how the home functioned, providing much-needed space while enhancing the overall flow.
Smart additions
To accommodate their growing family, the clients needed additional space, including a new ensuite bathroom and a dedicated kids’ bathroom. The basement, which was previously underutilized, was transformed into a bedroom and private bathroom for the eldest son, a retreat-like space where he could have privacy, while still feeling connected to the home.
To ensure functionality for a busy household, traffic flow and storage solutions were reconfigured throughout the home. Well-planned built-ins, hidden storage compartments and custom cabinetry were introduced to reduce clutter and maximize efficiency. These thoughtful adjustments helped create an organized, spacious environment tailored to the family’s needs.
An open layout with thoughtful divisions
One of the most significant transformations involved completely rethinking the layout. Originally, the kitchen was at the back of the house. It was relocated it to the front, offering a new perspective and increased natural light. This change also allowed for a custom-built banquette that overlooked the street.
The banquette, upholstered in a striking caramel-hued leather and detailed with vertical channel piping, is a beautiful focal point and serves as a functional divider between the kitchen and dining area. The clients gather here for meals and use the space regularly to host book clubs, game nights and dinner parties, making it a vibrant hub for daily life and entertaining.
The middle of the home now features a multi-purpose bar area with ample storage, perfect for the clients’ love of entertaining. At the back, the 400-sq.-ft. extension is used as a family room with a TV, fireplace and built-in bookshelves. Large sliding doors connect the home to the backyard, where the husband’s converted shed functions as a fully equipped office space.
Adding personality in design
This home reflects the client’s bold approach to colour and pattern. From the blue-grey kitchen cabinets to the playful patterned tile at the front entrance, every design choice was made with personality and character in mind.
On the staircase, a chevron runner with a striped detail adds movement and energy, while oak wood fluting along the stairway enhances the aesthetics and acts as a sound buffer. The combination of texture, pattern and colour creates an inviting and dynamic atmosphere. In the living room, a statement pink-patterned rug and a terrazzo coffee table further illustrate the family’s love for vibrant, unconventional choices.
One sentimental design element is the collection of hand-crafted bird mobiles, lovingly made by the client’s retired father. These delicate pieces hang throughout the home, serving as a personal, artistic touch that brings warmth and meaning to the space.
Balancing an open concept with separation
One of the biggest challenges in this renovation was achieving a balance between openness and definition. The clients wanted an open-concept home, but also needed some separation between different functional areas.
This was achieved through strategic design choices. For example, the banquette subtly divides the kitchen and dining areas, which allows for a cosy yet connected feel. A partial wall between the bar and living room provides just enough separation while maintaining flow. It also doubles as a stylish serving area when guests visit, reinforcing the home’s blend of functionality and sociability. Through these thoughtful elements, the feeling of openness was maintained while ensuring that each space served its own purpose.
Family life
This home’s dramatic transformation wasn’t just about adding square footage – it was about creating a home that truly worked for the way this family lives. Every decision was made with care and intention, from the choice of materials to the reconfiguration of rooms.
By blending style and practicality, the home now feels expansive, cohesive and deeply personal. The result is a space that celebrates family life, encourages connection and makes daily routines easier and more enjoyable.