Downtown Darling – Living Room

Member:

West of Main

City:

Ottawa, Ontario

Year:

2023

Budget:

$27, 000

Awards:

2024 CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence Finalist - Best Single Room Renovation

What was the challenge?

The clients wanted their home to be more functional for their lifestyle; create an elegant lounge optimal for entertaining guests. They envisioned a space that seamlessly blends comfort and style, allowing for both intimate gatherings and larger social events. With an emphasis on sophistication, they sought to incorporate plush seating and ambient lighting to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

What was delivered?

The improvements made to the main floor living room have significantly enhanced the open-concept space, which is physically connected to the foyer and dining room, and visually linked to the kitchen. By removing the outdated built-in sideboard that separated the space from the dining room, we created a more versatile and open layout for furniture placement. The original structural columns and fireplace framing were adjusted to eliminate disproportionate dips and protrusions along the wall, resulting in a more visually tranquil environment. We embraced the asymmetry by designing a unique wall sconce installation that adds character. The too-small electric fireplace was replaced with a larger gas fireplace surrounded by natural stone and a custom mantle, perfect for decor and holiday stockings. The hardwood flooring throughout the main floor was refinished in a neutralized color with a low-sheen finish, enhancing the overall aesthetic. The rich paint color on the mantle echoes the kitchen cabinets, while the natural stone around the fireplace reappears on the front door threshold, creating visual harmony across the space. Serving as an introduction to the home, this room sets the tone with colors and textures like slate grey, muted green, aubergine, navy, beige, creamy white, and brass, found throughout the rest of the home. Additional elements such as the mantle, wall sconces, drapery panels, and mirror add important layers to the room’s transformation. The bay window offers a beautiful view of a pond and willow trees, and the swivel function on the armchairs provides the perfect spot for morning coffee. Ottomans help define the lounge from the foyer while offering flexible seating options, easily moving to serve as stools, guest seating, or footstools for the sofa or armchairs.

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INTERESTED IN A SIMILAR PROJECT?

Contact West of Main for more information.