The realization of this project was the result of a successful collaboration between residential designer Dean Ruffolo of Dero Design, the clients and architect/interior designer Wanda Ely.
The unique design of this house came from the clients’ desire to have a contemporary space with an inherent sense of warmth and familiarity. The result is a refined and sensitive reinterpretation of mid-century and art deco aesthetics – with inspiration drawn from bold, graphic gestures and paired with a warm palette of colours and textures.
Wanda’s immediate goal was to delineate the ground floor spaces architecturally, while maintaining the flow and openness inherent in the design of the layout. This was achieved by inserting wrapped wood panelling along the walls and ceilings at both entrances to the house. These multi-functional panel units contain storage and seating elements, and are accentuated with specialty lighting. Together these elements work to define a clear design structure and identity to the ground floor, while maintaining the flexibility of an open-space concept.
This major design gesture works in synergy with the smaller, carefully detailed elements, such as the stair rails and pulls, drawing inspiration from similar sources, and applied at varying scales. The selection of finishes, fixtures and furnishings was made in close consultation with the client, and lends the space a distinct character.
Photos by Scott Norsworthy