Essential viewing
A mix of materials makes this Markham model a showstopper By Lisa Van de Ven
What are the essentials in The Essential model suite? Warm woods, bright accents and a casual, contemporary vibe. Together they make for a softer design in keeping with the Markham location, says interior designer Alex Chapman: “We wanted to do something a little gentler, not quite so heavily stylized as you might see downtown — a little bit more of a warm, mixed flavour.” The 944-square-foot suite has a neutral canvas with bursts of vibrant greens and blues; for a chic touch, wood slats separate the living room and den. “The den is part of the living space but at the same time has its own identity,” says the principal with Union31. Suites at The Essential, by Emery Condominiums, range from 540 to 1,253 sq. ft. and from $229,900 to $519,900. The sales office is located at 9610 McCowan Rd., Markham, and open Monday to Thursday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call 905-887-4888 or visit essentialcondos.com.
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“The contemporized wingchair has a slightly transitional flavour,” Mr. Chapman says. Its warm wood frame and rounded edges fit in nicely with the suite’s aesthetic. The bold pattern, meanwhile, “adds dimension,” the designer says.
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“We didn’t want the suite to read totally traditional,” Mr. Chapman explains, hence the classic Platner table. Its contemporary flair modernizes the space, while the slatted base mimics the divider that separates the living room from den.
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“Crystal is really big right now,” says the designer. The comely crystal chandelier from Robert Abbey adds glitz to the space. But the round crystal drops soften the light fixture, keeping it from getting too precious. “It makes it very approachable,” Mr. Chapman says.
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Built-in shelving of white lacquer and stained maple are found in both the living room and den. In the first space, it’s somewhere to show off accessories. In the den, it adds function to the room, with a desk and Murphy bed for guests.
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A tall, tufted headboard makes a statement in the master bedroom. The custom bed’s white upholstery offers maximum contrast against the vivid green wallpaper. “It punches nicely,” Mr. Chapman says. “As you’re walking through, it draws you into the bedroom and makes it distinct.”
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Tree-shaped white lamps are just one example of a subtle nature theme that runs through the unit — also apparent in the bedroom’s art and accessories. “The suite has a nice deep terrace, and we wanted to bring in that indoor/outdoor feel,” Mr. Chapman says.