With the pulse of Paris as inspiration, designer Alina Ryssina gives a Toronto condo an haute couture makeover.
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TEXT CHRISTY WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY LAUREN MILLER
With the pulse of Paris as her inspiration, designer Alina Ryssina gives a Toronto condo an haute couture makeover.
Fashion designer Christian Dior once said, “The tones of grey, pale turquoise and pink will prevail.” If the quote seems tailor-made for this modern condo, it’s for a good reason. “The owner, Paige Peake, is a buyer who works with luxury brands and was highly inspired by Dior’s flagship store in Paris,” says Alina. In fact, the boutique’s soft greys, warm woods and delicate marble underlie the design. “They’re a traditional French aesthetic,” says the designer, “but I knew I could incorporate them into a contemporary space, then layer in soft shapes and glamorous elements.” A three-month renovation transformed the standard-finished, 1,400-square-foot new-build as a sophisticated residence, one that stylishly reflects the creative energy of the fashion lover who lives here. OPPOSITE Designer Alina Ryssina relied on rounded shapes and soft textures to temper the condo’s minimalist architecture. “I wanted elements that were the opposite of all the straight lines,” she says. “The organic forms and curves of the furniture are quirky, playful and found in nature. The textured rug is a one-of-a-kind vintage piece, and I love how worn and imperfect it feels in a new space.” The Dior inspiration is on display not only on the coffee table, but in the pink and turquoise artwork. “This is one of
Paige’s Dior silk scarves,” says Alina. “It’s a special item with meaning that she wanted to display. I just guided her with the framing and placement of it.”
“PAIGE’S CONDO IS AN ESCAPE FROM THE CONCRETE JUNGLE BELOW.”
“THE HOME NEEDED TO REFLECT PAIGE’S CREATIVE, BRIGHT AND SOPHISTICATED ENERGY.”