When a growing family begins to outgrow their space, the solution is not always a bigger home. Sometimes, the answer is making better use of the home you already love.
That was the goal behind Achieving Hygge, a whole-home renovation completed by RenoMark member Lagois Design Build Renovate in Ottawa. The project, which earned national recognition as the 2026 CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence winner for Best Whole Home Renovation under $200,000, transformed a segmented main floor into a bright, welcoming space designed for modern family living.
Before the renovation, the home’s layout worked against the family’s everyday needs. An inefficient kitchen, limited storage, poor sightlines, and a series of closed-off rooms made it difficult for family members to connect while carrying out daily activities. The homeowners wanted a more functional and inviting environment where cooking, dining, relaxing, and spending time together could happen naturally.
Inspired by the Scandinavian concept of hygge, which emphasizes comfort, warmth, and togetherness, the renovation focused on creating a home that feels calm, practical, and welcoming. To achieve this, major structural changes were made to open up the main floor. Load-bearing walls were removed, allowing natural light to travel freely from the front of the home to the large rear windows. The result is an airy, connected space that feels significantly larger without adding a single square foot.
The redesigned kitchen became the heart of the home. A new peninsula provides additional prep space, casual seating, and a place for children to do homework while meals are being prepared. Thoughtfully designed storage solutions, including a floor-to-ceiling pantry and custom built-in bench seating with hidden drawers, help keep everyday clutter organized while maximizing functionality.
Design choices throughout the home reinforce the sense of comfort and cohesion. Light maple flooring, soft neutral colours, sage-green cabinetry, open shelving, and carefully selected lighting fixtures create a warm, timeless aesthetic. Every detail was considered to support both beauty and practicality, resulting in spaces that feel effortless to use and enjoy.
While the finished renovation appears simple and seamless, significant expertise was required behind the scenes. Structural modifications, mechanical system relocations, and proactive plumbing upgrades were carefully coordinated to ensure the home’s long-term performance and durability.
Projects like this demonstrate the value of working with a professional renovator. Renovating a home is about much more than finishes and fixtures. It requires thoughtful planning, technical expertise, quality workmanship, and a commitment to delivering lasting results.
As we celebrate Renovation Month, homeowners considering their next project should look for a RenoMark renovator. RenoMark members are professional renovators who agree to abide by a code of conduct, provide clear contracts, carry appropriate insurance, and stand behind their work.
Whether you’re updating a single room or transforming your entire home, partnering with a RenoMark renovator can help ensure your renovation journey is a positive one and that the finished space truly feels like home.
