Project Horsham: Merging Modern Design with Timeless Elegance
When I first toured this house—virtually, during peak COVID—I immediately sensed it was a departure from the clients’ previous home. Their last house was a large traditional space, filled with nostalgic antiques, while this new build was a modern grey box: sleek, sophisticated, but lacking warmth. With their three grown children now out of the nest, our clients were ready to embrace a new chapter of city living. They wanted a design that reflected this exciting phase of life while still honouring their cherished collection of art and antiques. Our mission was clear: to seamlessly blend their rich past with this contemporary space, crafting a home that felt both bold and inviting.
Inspired By Art
The clients' bold art collection became our design cornerstone. In the living room, we drew inspiration from a striking piece with deep red tones by Canadian artist Kevin Sonmor, pairing it with modern neutrals and textured elements like grasscloth, wall paneling, and a bouclé sofa to create a space that feels both lively and tranquil.
The open-concept layout posed its own challenges, particularly the expansive 25-foot wall spanning the living and dining areas. To introduce definition, we installed simple wall paneling, adding textured concrete washi wallpaper in the upper panels. This subtle contrast breaks up the space and adds visual interest without overwhelming the room. The thick textured wallpaper also helps to absorb sound in the large room.
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The cream sofa is the Rubio Sofa available at ElteMKT and the coffee table is available at CB2.
Making the Most of Each Space
The family room is one of my favourite transformations in the home. We added a full wall of built-ins that combine functional concealed storage, gallery-style glass display cases, and a large walnut panel to feature artwork. Undoubtedly the most popular room in the house, a cozy and durable tweed sofa anchors the room, complementing the grey millwork and blue-toned rug. The walnut paneling wall and grasscloth wallpaper add texture and refinement.
Finding the ideal recliner was a challenge; we wanted comfort without the bulky, dated look. After testing numerous options, we found a sleek, understated design that was still extremely comfortable.
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If you’re seeking the least reclinery recliner, you’ll want to check out the Flight Recliner from Design Within Reach. If you're looking to add sculptural seating and subtle texture to your dining room, check out the AMES Dining Chairs from Union, and the Second Life Beige Rug from ElteMKT we used in this project.
A Soothing Sanctuary
The primary suite is a serene sanctuary designed for calm and comfort. A plush ivory velvet bed pairs with a sky-grey bench and cream drapes adorned with delicate metallic embroidery, creating a soothing yet luxurious palette. A vintage-style rug in lavender and blue adds a touch of romance, while a linen-shaded chandelier offers timeless elegance without overwhelming the space.
The Ontario-made maple dresser and nightstands combine beauty and function, providing ample storage and showcasing the natural wood grain.
The primary ensuite was given a subtle facelift with new wallpaper in a lavender linen texture and the addition of above-counter storage.
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Bring the tranquil feel of this bedroom into your own space with the linen chandelier from Visual Comfort & Co., Pillows from Hemme and Tonic Living, Bedding from Crate & Barrel, and Au Lit Fine Linens.
A Functional Yet Stylish Home Office
The home office balances style and function. Reeded glass doors reveal a room wrapped in textured linen wallpaper. A double-sided desk offers storage on one side and display on the other, which can be seen from the living and dining room. Positioned on a durable sisal rug (ideal for a wheeled desk chair), the space is both sophisticated and comfortable—ideal for productivity or quiet reflection.
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You can create your own sophisticated workspace with the versatile double-sided Avida Desk from Sunpan, and the sleek yet comfortable Eames Aluminum Group Chair from Herman Miller.
Project Horsham was a wonderful opportunity to explore the balance between modern design and personal history.
