Guiding Light Designer Ami McKay offers advice to a savvy homeowner, resulting in sophisticated interiors with a natural touch.
“WE BROUGHT IN EARTHY COLOURS TO MAKE IT FEEL MORE RELAXED AND COMFORTABLE” — AMI McKAY
Ami didn’t lose any time offering her seasoned insight and positive encouragement. “This client already had a lot of experience renovating,” says Ami. “She just didn’t want to make any costly mistakes — she needed a cheerleader!” For starters, Ami suggested white oak to help balance out those not-crazy black kitchen cabinets. White oak herringbone-patterned floors now serve as a nod to the traditional exterior (Ami found someone who hand-jigged each piece), while the rest of the interior balances a clean and contemporary counterpoint that always reads warm. “Sometimes in modern black, white and grey interiors, people make the mistake of not having any grounding tones,” says Ami. “We made sure pillows were on the warmer side and we brought in earthy colours to make it feel more relaxed and comfortable.”
When the couple was ready to finally move in to their new, “old” home, the holidays were just around the corner. It was time for Ami to don a different hat. To ready the house for the Christmas season, she brought her signature less-is-more magic to the forefront. With a nimble touch, the former florist deconstructed bouquets and placed them in tiny vases, and decorated a simple tree with artful wood accents like birch offcuts. “It’s not garish, but it’s still festive,” says the homeowner, who loved Ami’s holiday style. It’s just the right subtle touch for this contemporary space — and a fitting way to celebrate their partnership.
TOP LEFT: Light white oak cabinets pair well with black barstools for contrast and drama.
TOP RIGHT: A blue door adds an elegant but beachy vibe while tall birch logs bring a subtle touch of holiday. Birch logs, Pure Shoppe; wreath design, Ami McKay.
RIGHT: At the back door, dark cabinets create a moody entrance; hex floor tile hints at the modern interior beyond. Tile, Ames Tile & Stone.
OPPOSITE: The interplay between the black cabinets and the pale floors and counters provides a study in balance. Pendants by Kuzco Lighting, Vancouver Lighting; counter, SSC Countertops; flooring, Olive Tree Flooring; painted cabinet colour, Twilight Zone (2127-10), Benjamin Moore.
A bright piece of art adds warmth to the otherwise simple dining room.
Pendant by Moooi, Lumens;
dining table, Lock & Mortice; dining chairs, EQ3. OPPOSITE, TOP: Two wood-and-camel leather armchairs break up the neutral palette of white, grey and black. Ceiling fixture by Kuzco Lighting, Vancouver Lighting.
LEFT: Although nothing screams “Christmas,” small touches nod to the warmth of the holidays, like the casually draped pom-pom throw, simple greenery and delicious treats. Sectional, Montauk
Sofa; coffee table, RH; throw, Rug & Weave; floor lamp, West Elm.
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LEFT: Beautifully wrapped gifts await under the minimalist tree. Tree basket, tea towels, pom-pom trim, tree gift wrap, HomeSense.
ABOVE: The homeowner’s son steals a snack while waiting for Santa. Gas fireplace insert, Urban Fireplaces.
LEFT: A cosy family room is tucked away by the back entry.
BOTTOM LEFT:
Playtime on the furniture shows that nothing is too precious in this welcoming space.
Sofa, CF Interiors;
rug, Marra Market.
BOTTOM RIGHT:
The principal bathroom’s clean lines and neutral palette are timeless and calming.
Pendant, Inform Interiors; counter,
SSC Countertops;
tile, Fontile
Kitchen & Bath.
A hand-painted mural by artist Dana Mooney is striking in the principal bedroom. Bed frame, nightstand, Fullhouse Modern; rug, West Elm.