Building blocks

When it came to the model home at Elvina Gardens, Laura Mazzuca wanted to create something streamlined and modern, in keeping with the exterior architecture at the boutique low-rise site. With the help of Toronto Condo Staging and Design, she created a bright, airy space with light colour tones — one that would be “forgiving and easy for people to decorate around,” says the interior designer from Danmar Development. “We chose more neutral colours, things that would blend well and let people bring in their own items to accentuate what we’ve done, to make the space their own.” Creams and off-whites are paired with light flooring for a look that’s “almost feminine but not too over the top,” she says, creating a space Mazzuca calls “modern sophisticated.” Homes at Elvina Gardens — by developer Insoho Developments — are almost 3,000 square feet, and start at $1,774,900. The model is located at 42A Elvina Gardens, Toronto, and open by appointment or on weekends from 2 to 4 p.m. Call 647-296-5647 or visit elvinagardens.com.

1 Flat-front ivory cabinets from New Image Kitchens create a light backdrop to the kitchen space, while sleek stainless steel pulls add to the contemporary effect. A similarly toned linear mosaic backsplash creates “more of a visual texture than a colour presence,” Mazzuca adds — creating a minimalistic look. 2 Mazzuca opted for Corian countertops in the kitchen, in part for their “clean, seamless look,” in keeping with the home’s modern style. But the charcoal grey countertops aren’t completely monochromatic, incorporating accents of blue, rust and metallic to add visual texture to the space. 3 Frosted glass pendant lights from Union Lighting and Furnishing hang above the island, creating a “minimalistic accent” that fits into the streamlined, contemporary design, Mazzuca says. “We wanted to bring presence to the island but we didn’t want to draw too much focus,” she adds. 4 “We tried to go local where possible,” the designer says, which is why she chose Canadian manufacturer Laurentian Hardwood for the light plank wood flooring. “The floors are actually quite the showpiece,” she says. “And they’re nice long boards, so they accentuate the length of the space.” 5 “We went with a linear fireplace, keeping with the contemporary theme,” Mazzuca says. The gas fireplace is kept simple and sleek, with no surround — only a shelf above. “The shelf carries through the sophisticated minimalism that’s throughout the house, allowing homeowners to incorporate their own character with accessories.” 6 The curved staircase features stainless steel pickets and rectangular handrails. “We wanted to modernize it,” says the designer, who used glass railings at the landing to continue that effect, while a thicker tread, paired with risers that match the wall colour, give it a floating effect.