High style in White Rock
MARCON’S SEMIAH TAKES INSPIRATION FROM ITS OCEANVIEW LOCATION
When residents stand on their balconies at Semiah and look out to Semiahmoo Bay, they’ll take in the same beauty that inspired Scott Trepp and his team to design the interiors of the building in White Rock.
Their appreciation of the look and texture of the sand, light and water of White Rock’s shoreline is ever present in the materials, finishes and decor of Marcon’s community of 88 spacious condominiums. However, the design doesn’t have to scream “shoreline” to take on the beauty of the waterfront.
Subtle references to the outdoors were key in Trepp Design Inc.’s choices in materials and finishes. The team took cues from the play of natural light and variations in surface textures.
“To this end, we’ve combined low-lustre or matte finishes, such as the wide-plank brushed wood flooring, honed marble in the kitchen backsplash, and honed ensuite marble tiles with other materials
that are more polished,” Trepp says.
Driftwood, mussels and seagulls inspired the darker scheme, one of two options for Semiah buyers. The lighter scheme takes on the warmth of the sand and stone found on the nearby shoreline.
Marcon brought in higher-end appliances such as a Wolf cooktop and a Bosch French-door refrigerator, tall pantries in the kitchens,
and a wine fridge to appeal to buyers who want the look, feel and convenience of single-family homes, he adds. The suites are spacious and open and made for entertaining.
Every detail stands out for the designers.
“Unexpectedly, one of the elements that we’re most fond of within the suite is an accessory: beach stones wrapped in sea grass,” says
the principal of Trepp Design Inc.
“In addition to being esthetically beautiful, the artistic manipulation of these found objects strongly reflects the nature of the overall design for Semiah.”
Considering the emphasis on the surrounding environment, it’s fitting that the offset balconies and the width and shallowness of the suites maximize natural light for
homeowners. The building’s position will offer views similar to those from the single-family homes nearby on the street.
The finishes are decidedly modern, but not minimalist, Trepp says.
“Cabinetry door styles, plumbing fixtures and furnishings with a slight nod to more traditional styling were intentionally introduced to provide softness and character.”
A clear glass, boxlike coffee table looks like a museum piece as much as a practical piece of decor, marking the living room as a mature and elegant space.
“The coffee table within the living room is one of our favourite pieces for its form and softness of line. We love the flexibility it provides in displaying objects, while still lending a sense of lightness and openness to the space.”