ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Designer Orsi Panos transforms tight quarters into an open airy abode with a Mid-Century Modern twist.
Designer Orsi Panos transforms tight quarters into an open and airy abode
GREAT THINGS
are born of great friendships – and the perfect design is a perfect example. That’s why designer Orsi Panos always interviews prospective clients before taking on a new project. “If we’re going to be in each other’s lives for more than a year, we have to like each other,” she says. “Designing a house for someone is really special and intimate, so my clients and I often become great friends by the end.”
That’s what happened with homeowners Janet Taylor – an artist – and her wife, who hired Orsi to design the main floor of their Toronto home after seeing how she transformed their neighbours’ house. Straying from the polished-yet-rustic look of the house
“NATURAL LIGHT MAKES EVERYTHING COME ALIVE.”
next door, they wanted to open up the space and imbue it with a contemporary casual vibe. Though their design vision was drastically different from the example the couple saw, they knew Orsi was their match after one quick meeting. “We walked away saying, ‘This is someone we know we can work with,’” explains Janet.
She was right. “My main directive was to fill the house with light,” says Orsi, “which is perfect, because that’s my driving force in design, too. Natural light makes everything come alive.”
After knocking down walls to open up the main floor and allow light to flow through, Orsi set about switching up the layout to better reflect the homeowners’ lifestyle. Since they spend most of their time in the kitchen, Orsi kept it in the centre of the home and expanded the living room to the back, where the homeowners could lounge, entertain and best enjoy their beloved
garden. Orsi also replaced the seldom-used formal living-dining room with a spacious dining room that feels elegant yet inviting.
The decorating details came next, and Orsi was able to fulfill the homeowners’ requests for a pared-back Mid-Century Modern feel that incorporates heirloom furniture, a blend of warm woods and their extensive art collection. They were thrilled with the process. “Orsi would just show up and read my mind,” says Janet. In fact, it went so well that Orsi just finished designing the couple’s third floor – and both parties are confident their friendship will continue for many years to come.
“ORSI WOULD JUST SHOW UP AND READ MY MIND.”