Designing a large home can evoke feelings of both excitement and trepidation. The grandeur offers boundless opportunities, yet it also poses a distinct set of challenges. Many of my clients approach me with the struggle to infuse intimacy and coziness into expansive spaces, often grappling with echoes and the daunting task of selecting appropriately sized furniture.

When not done correctly, the result can fall short of expectations, leaving you (and your space) yearning for more. The secret to transforming your large home into an inviting haven lies in scale and strategy. Here is how we accomplish this delicate balance…

1. Establish Zones

In larger living spaces, the challenge often lies in creating a cohesive, comfortable, and purposeful environment. To mitigate the sense of vastness and avoid a disconnected and disjointed arrangement, we strategically divide the room into distinct zones. By delineating areas based on their primary and secondary functions, we maintain human scale and intimacy while ensuring each zone serves a purpose.

In our PEI Project, featured above, we strategically arranged furniture and defined functional areas, resulting in a seamless flow that promotes a sense of connection throughout the expansive room. Whether hosting large gatherings or enjoying intimate moments with family and friends, this living space offers versatility all while maintaining a warm and inviting ambiance. 

2. Create Nooks and Moments

Once the zones are established, we begin to craft smaller, more intimate areas. These cozy nooks and inviting corners serve as retreats within the room, offering opportunities for relaxation and reflection. Whether it’s a sun-drenched window seat, a tucked-away entry bench, or a dedicated coffee station, these micro-environments bring the scale down to a human level, making your space feel more approachable and inviting.

In the primary bedroom of our PEI Project (right), we capitalized on the expansive layout by designating a separate lounge area. This idyllic space serves as a retreat for quiet moments, morning coffee rituals, or evening reading sessions. Positioned strategically to capture views of the cavendish dunes, the arrangement of the chairs, side table, and ottoman (sourced from Once a Tree Furniture) offers both comfort and functionality, creating the perfect balance between relaxation and enjoyment.

3. Infuse Texture and Warmth with Natural Materials

Texture plays a powerful role in infusing depth and warmth into large spaces. Soft furnishings like plush throw pillows, billowy drapery, and oversized area rugs not only enhance visual appeal but also serve as effective sound dampening solutions, mitigating those unwanted echoes.

Prince Edward Island Estate

By incorporating a variety of natural textures and materials, we introduce visual interest and tactile comfort, effectively transforming the room into a cozy haven. For example, we often source natural wood side tables and hand select oversized plants to bring life into your space, while woven wall hangings and custom upholstery infuse an artisanal touch, elevating the overall ambiance with warmth and character.

My Final Advice

If your spacious home feels disjointed or lacks cohesion, the solution often lies in strategic furnishing and mindful scaling. For more insights, I invite you to download our complementary guide, Uncovering the Hidden Potential of Your Home, available below.

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? We are here to help. Our mission is to create spaces that inspire peace, comfort, and serenity. Reach out to schedule a Discovery call and see if we are the right team for you.

Yours,

Lori

North Vancouver is full of decades-old homes with small kitchens lacking in both space and functionality. In many of these homes, the kitchen is a separate room, nestled into a corner and too small or closed off for much beyond cooking.

Thirty years ago, that may not have been a problem. The kitchen simply did not play the same role in our daily lives or serve as the backdrop for so many of our most cherished moments. Today, we want something different.

Families want their kitchens to be the heart and centre of their homes. Our way of life has evolved, and we now ask this one room to support many different parts of the day — cooking, eating, gathering, working, entertaining and simply spending time together.

As a result, the way we approach kitchen design is evolving too. Function will always be essential, yet we are also considering how the room feels, how it connects to the spaces around it and how furnishings, textiles, art and collected details can bring warmth and personality to a hardworking room.

The goal is not simply a better kitchen. It is a space that supports the rhythm of daily life while feeling cohesive with the rest of the home.

The Kitchen as a Social Space

People have always gathered in kitchens. What has changed is that we are now designing these spaces more intentionally for connection.

Generous islands, comfortable seating and thoughtful circulation allow family and friends to spend time together without interrupting the practical work happening around them. A kitchen may need to accommodate more than one cook, children doing homework, casual family meals and friends lingering with a glass of wine — sometimes all within the same afternoon.

In our PEI Project, pictured above, the expansive island creates a natural gathering place at the centre of the kitchen. There is room to sit, visit and be part of the activity, while the surrounding layout gives the cook ample space to move comfortably.

The kitchen also connects naturally to the adjoining spaces, allowing conversation and activity to flow throughout the home. Rather than feeling like a room set apart, it becomes part of a larger social experience. This is often what transforms a kitchen from a purely functional space into the true heart of the home.

The “Soft Kitchen” Movement

Kitchens are naturally composed of hardworking materials — cabinetry, stone, tile, metal and hard flooring. These finishes provide durability and structure, yet when they are not balanced with softer elements, the room can begin to feel more utilitarian than inviting.

The idea behind the “soft kitchen” is to introduce some of the same warmth and layering we use throughout the rest of the home. Fabric window treatments, woven and upholstered seating, runners and area rugs, warm woods, decorative lighting and other tactile details soften the harder finishes while adding texture and personality.

In our Dollarton Project, pictured on the left, the tailored Roman shade introduces fabric into a room otherwise defined by cabinetry, stone and tile. The sculptural sconces add another decorative layer, while the natural wood accessories and simple styling bring warmth to the crisp white millwork.

In our Newfoundland Project, pictured on the right, woven counter stools soften the substantial walnut island and introduce a tactile quality. Above, the copper pendants bring warmth and patina, helping the kitchen feel more relaxed and connected to the furnished spaces beyond. 

The Kitchen as a Furnished Room

A kitchen may be one of the most functional rooms in the home, yet it does not need to feel purely utilitarian. When we approach decorating functional spaces with the same care we bring to living areas, they begin to feel more personal, cohesive and complete.

Artwork, pottery, plants, vintage pieces and collected objects can all have a place in the kitchen. Open shelving, furniture-style cabinetry and freestanding pieces create further opportunities to introduce warmth and character, breaking up long runs of millwork and helping the room feel more thoughtfully furnished.

In our PEI Project, the open shelving at the end of the island became an opportunity for intentional styling. Copper vessels, ceramics and stacked books add warmth and texture against the navy cabinetry, allowing a hardworking feature to feel decorative as well as practical.

The dedicated espresso station was treated with the same intention. The walnut countertop introduces warmth, while the open shelving and artwork create a small moment of personality around an everyday ritual.

Good storage plays an important role in making this approach successful. When appliances, charging cords and everyday clutter have a purposeful place, the pieces left on display can feel curated rather than incidental.

Designing the Kitchen Around the Way You Live

Before selecting finishes or determining the final layout, we consider how the kitchen needs to support everyday life. Who cooks? Where do the children do homework? Is breakfast eaten at the island? Does someone regularly work from home? Is coffee an important morning ritual? Do friends and family gather here when entertaining? These details shape the design.

A built-in banquette may be right for one family, while another may benefit from a generous island with seating. A dedicated coffee station, hidden appliance storage or an integrated workspace may completely change how easily the room supports daily routines.

In this Vancouver townhome, for example, the family needed a dedicated place to work and study while still feeling connected to the activity around them.

Working with a small footprint, we incorporated a workspace directly into the kitchen, with generous counter space, practical storage and access to natural light. Rather than feeling like an office added as an afterthought, it became part of the overall plan for how the family would use the room.

This is why understanding how a family wants to live in a space always comes first. The kitchen may need to work hard, yet when every element is carefully considered, it can support those routines with far greater ease.

Key Takeaways

The modern kitchen is doing much more than it once did, and thoughtful design should reflect the way the room is truly used.

• Design for gathering. Comfortable seating and thoughtful circulation allow family and friends to be part of the activity without interfering with the work of the kitchen.
• Introduce softness. Textiles, woven materials, area rugs, warm woods and upholstered pieces balance the harder surfaces naturally found in kitchens.
• Decorate functional spaces. Art, lighting, pottery and collected objects bring personality and help the kitchen feel connected to the rest of the home.
• Plan storage with intention. A purposeful place for everyday necessities allows decorative pieces to breathe and keeps the room feeling calm and considered.
• Begin with the way you live. Daily routines, family life, hobbies and entertaining habits should guide the way the space is planned.

Creating a Home That Feels Complete

Ultimately, a kitchen should feel like it belongs to the rest of the home. It should support the practical rhythms of daily life while still feeling warm, personal and inviting.

If you are ready to create a home that feels more cohesive, thoughtfully layered and personal to you, reach out here. We would be delighted to help.

Until next time,

Lori

If you know me, you know that I love working with Canadian artists, craftspeople, suppliers, and specialists. I find it rewarding to support people whose passions and unique skill sets have become their livelihoods. From lifting each other up to connecting over our shared values, these professional relationships have easily become some of my most treasured.

That said, supporting local trades and Canadian makers isn’t just personal. There are many benefits that our clients enjoy when we involve our local network, too. Whether you’re working with us on a renovation or considering a design project in the future, here are 5 reasons why sourcing Canadian-made products is always worth your while…

1. High-Quality Materials & Craftsmanship

Yes, there are high-quality vendors to be found across North America and even overseas. However, sourcing Vancouver-based or Canadian-made products is still an advantage. Local makers, suppliers, and trades are more accustomed to the needs of our area, and we have the option to work hand-in-hand with them to create something truly custom for you. 

For example, one of our favourite Vancouver suppliers, Once A Tree Furniture, collaborated with us to design and craft the two custom coffee tables shown above. They are both made from acclimated hardwoods, which means no shrinking or swelling and less cracking. Pieces like these not only endure our climate but are of such high quality that our clients are likely to keep them as heirlooms for decades to come. That’s the value of local craftsmanship.

2. Greater Efficiency & A Smarter Investment

Whether you have a limitless budget or a finite one, you are likely to be wondering about the investment surrounding locally sourced and custom pieces. While it is true that anything handcrafted by an expert is going to be an investment, these costs are offset by its other financial advantages.

To start, local products are more cost-effective in the long-run, because we avoid foreign exchange rates and enjoy decreased transportation costs. Locally-made custom pieces also tend to be hand-delivered with care by the makers, ensuring that each piece arrives in pristine condition. 

By comparison, sourcing from big-box retailers is a bigger risk. It is not uncommon for items to arrive damaged, which requires our project management hours to solve, in addition to the costs associated with returning the piece and having a new one shipped. In fact, when all is said and done, it is not rare that acquiring a big-box piece ends up costing more than a custom piece would have! Surprising, right?

Long-term, sourcing local is usually the wiser choice. During our preliminary conversations we will identify these opportunities for your consideration.

3. A Healthier Home, Community & Planet

Sourcing locally also comes with several benefits for the conscientious among us. First, because we can reduce the travel distance for transporting goods, we are able to lower the total carbon footprint of your project, which is always better for the planet.

Second, favouring Canadian suppliers and materials gives us the confidence that these employers are paying their workforce fair wages and creating safe working conditions, which is not always a guarantee when you purchase from big-box businesses.

The third benefit is a bit more personal: goods made from locally sourced materials and/or crafted by hand (in most cases) are developed with fewer harmful chemicals and irritants. This simple difference can lead to long-term improvements in indoor air quality and overall health. Who doesn’t want that?

4. A Deeper Sense of Place

“Sense of place” is a term designers use to reference the way a space evokes its environment. Our clients in particular have a love for the outdoors and for the beauty of our region, so creating a sense of place is important to them. Sourcing locally is one way we achieve it.

For example, in the Raven Woods Home (above), we curated several unique local pieces that capture the feel of their rainforest-meets-coast location. These acquisitions include a driftwood sailboat, mountain-inspired textile piece, seascape artwork, sculpted centerpiece, and lush moss greenery. (Scroll to bottom for artist credits.)

By finding pieces that were inspired by our region and created right here in Vancouver, these pieces also have more meaning and depth. More than a sense of place, our clients feel a connection with them, and by extension, with their home.

5. Long-Term Access to Industry Specialists

Supporting the industry as a whole may not be your highest priority, but I guarantee you will feel good about it. Why? To explain, we have to look at its evolution…

For decades, centuries even, speciality trades did some of the most respected work in society. Skills like carpentry, tilework, and upholstery fabrication were revered and encouraged. Now, however, many of these skills have been replaced by machines and production lines. 

Of course, we enjoy many advantages of the modern world, but the collective decline of skills and knowledge feels like a community-wide loss — and we can do something about it. By continuing to source and shop from local makers and trades, we increase demand, making it far more likely that these experts will hire and train the next generation in their line of work. 

All that to say, when you buy or hire locally, you’re contributing to something bigger than just your home or that person’s livelihood. You’re helping preserve a history of craftsmanship, creativity, and expertise that will benefit you and the whole community for generations to come. 

Ready to Design Your Home?

We are grateful to be surrounded by talented local specialists who are committed to their trades, the environment, and delivering high-quality goods to our clients. Although we have mentioned some partners here, you can find more on our Community Spotlight page. 

If you are ready for a relaxed, authentic home crafted by an experienced local team, we would love to help. Reach out to us here and let’s discuss your vision for your home.

Until next time,
Lori

*Note: Here are some of the artists, vendors, and trades featured in this blog post. I encourage you to check them out!

Lions Bay Project: Once a Tree Furniture

Raven Woods Project: Tracey Ayton | Katie Napier | With Strings Attached | Soul Roots Moss Arts | Martha Sturdy 

PEI Project: Brodye Chappell Builds | Propellor Studio | Once a Tree Furniture

When planning a home renovation, it is natural to focus first on the elements that feel permanent — flooring, cabinetry, millwork, lighting and architectural details. Decorating can feel like something to think about later, once the renovation is complete.

In reality, the best time to start thinking about how you will furnish and decorate your home is much earlier.

Furnishings are what transform the structure of a room into a space designed around the way you actually live. They influence how you move through the space, where you gather and how the room supports your everyday routines. Considering these details from the beginning allows us to make better decisions throughout the renovation and work toward a home that feels cohesive, comfortable and complete.

Begin with How You Want to Live

Before selecting a sofa or dining table, we consider how furniture will be arranged within each room. Space planning allows us to think through circulation, scale, and sightlines, while ensuring the room supports the way you actually plan to use it.

In a family room, for example, the size and placement of the seating can influence everything from lighting and electrical locations to the fireplace, television and surrounding architectural details. These decisions are much easier to make when we already understand how the finished room will function.

When furnishings are left until after construction, you may find yourself searching for pieces that simply fit rather than creating a room designed around the way you want to live.

In our West Vancouver Project, pictured above, the entryway needed to feel defined without closing it off from the adjoining living space. The slatted divider creates that sense of separation while maintaining light and sightlines, while a vintage Danish credenza provides much-needed storage. Together, these decisions make the entry feel intentional, welcoming and connected to the way the family moves through the home.

Bring the Finished Room Into the Conversation Early

A successful renovation brings together different areas of expertise. Architects and draftspeople shape the structure, contractors and trades bring those plans to life, and our expertise lies in the finished interior — the furnishings and details that determine how the home will ultimately look, feel and function.

Even though our specialty is the finishing touches — hard and soft furnishings — it is never too early to involve us in a project. We can assemble a trusted team of professionals or collaborate with your existing architect, contractor or other professionals from the start. When everyone is working toward the same finished vision, decisions can be made with the complete home in mind, rather than treating the furnishings as an afterthought.

Our West Vancouver Project (pictured below) is a great example of what this looks like in practice.

For this project, we brought in the contractor and planned the room as a whole, making alterations to the location of the French doors and designing the custom millwork around the fireplace. Additionally, we planned the electrical so it could be seamlessly integrated into the millwork rather than addressed later.

These may seem like construction details, but each decision was made with the finished room in mind. This is exactly the kind of early collaboration that allows every detail to feel carefully considered.

Create the Layers That Make It Feel Like Home

A newly renovated space can be beautiful, yet without furnishings it is still an empty shell. To me, a finished room is one you genuinely want to spend time in. It supports the activities it was intended for, feels comfortable and draws you in. This is where layering becomes particularly important.

It is the wallpaper that becomes a conversation starter, the artwork that reminds you of a trip to Tuscany, or the antique found while travelling through the South of France. It is the heirloom dining table that hosts family gatherings and dinner parties, and the chair comfortable enough for hours of quiet reading or meaningful conversation.

Pictured Above: Dollarton Traditional Home

These details tell your story and create a sense of connection that cannot be achieved through beautiful finishes alone. This is the part of the design process I particularly love — curating with intention to create a home that feels refined yet relaxed, personal rather than staged, and comfortable enough to be enjoyed every day.

Plan for the Investment and Timeline

Homeowners often underestimate both the investment and time required to properly furnish a home. Depending on the scope of the project, furniture, window coverings, rugs, lighting, artwork and accessories can represent an investment similar to the renovation itself.

Quality furnishings can also have lead times of 3 to 6 months. Ideally, we like to place orders before renovation work begins so that furniture production and construction can happen concurrently. This allows us to work toward having the furnishings ready for delivery as the renovation comes to an end.

Planning ahead also gives us the freedom to select pieces because they are right for the home rather than because they happen to be available or happen to fit.

In our Newfoundland Family Home Project, pictured above, a set of older, dated chairs our clients already owned was given new life with this beautiful green ombré fabric.

Making Thoughtful Decisions About What You Already Own

Existing furniture can absolutely be incorporated into a newly renovated home when it makes sense. A meaningful antique, favourite piece of art or beautifully made piece of furniture can bring history and personality to a new space.

At the same time, furniture that worked well before a renovation may no longer be the right scale, style or configuration. We are also cautious about making permanent renovation decisions around existing furniture. Designing a wall, fireplace or room layout to accommodate a sofa that may only be with you for a few more years can create compromises that long outlast the piece itself.

The goal is not to replace everything with something new. We consider what you love, what has meaning and what works within the new design, allowing old and new pieces to come together naturally.

In our Newfoundland Project, pictured above, incorporating our clients’ existing art collection was central to the design. Several pieces became jumping-off points for colour and finish selections, while new works by West Coast artists were introduced to complement what they already owned.

Key Takeaways: The Importance of Decorating

• Decorating is about much more than adding finishing touches. Furniture placement influences how a room functions, flows and supports everyday life.
• Considering furnishings early allows important renovation decisions to be made with the finished room in mind.
• Our specialty is the finished interior, including space planning, furniture, lighting, rugs, window coverings, art and accessories.
• Working alongside architects, contractors and trades allows each professional to bring their particular expertise to the project.
• Furnishings require their own investment and timeline, with many quality pieces requiring 3 to 6 months to arrive.
• A thoughtfully decorated home feels layered, personal and complete because every piece has been considered as part of the whole.

Creating a Home That Feels Complete

Ultimately, the measure of a beautifully designed home is not simply how it looks when everything is finished. It is how you feel living there.

It is the ease of moving through your day, the comfort of settling in at night, and the pleasure of welcoming family and friends into your home. That is always the end result we are working toward.

If you are ready to create a home that supports the way you want to live, reach out here. We would be delighted to guide you through the process.

Until next time,

Lori

In my opinion, life is better with pets. Their uninhibited lifestyles and wholehearted affection enhance our lives in the best possible way. Our pets become part of the family from the moment we bring them home. They greet us at the door, keep us company through quiet evenings, and have a way of making our homes feel truly lived in.

Our homes, however, may not always feel quite so enhanced by our pets. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way.

Over the years, I have helped countless families create homes that are both beautiful and practical, while at home our own Labradoodle, Kiwi, and Aussiedoodle, Harley (pictured below), remind me every day that thoughtful design is about supporting real life.

The most successful homes are never designed around perfection. They are designed around the people — and pets — who live in them. With the right materials and a little planning, it is entirely possible to create a home that feels welcoming, refined, and ready for every stage of life with your beloved four-legged family members.

Selecting Pet-Friendly Materials

When designing a home for pet owners, thoughtful material selections make all the difference. The goal is not to design around your pets, but to choose finishes that allow you to enjoy your home without constantly worrying about muddy paws, pet hair, or the occasional accident.

Flooring

Flooring is often one of the first conversations we have with clients. While every home is different, there are several materials that consistently perform well for busy households.

Oak hardwood remains one of my favourite choices because it can often be refinished as it naturally accumulates wear over the years. Luxury vinyl plank and high-quality laminate have also become excellent options, offering impressive durability while standing up well to the demands of everyday family life.

The right flooring is not simply about durability. It should also complement the way your family lives and the overall character of your home.

West Vancouver Home

Upholstery & Soft Furnishings

Performance fabrics have transformed the way we approach upholstery. They allow clients to choose beautiful furniture with confidence, knowing that everyday spills, dirty paws, and pet hair are much easier to manage.

I also encourage clients to layer washable throw blankets over favourite lounging spots. They provide another level of protection, wash easily, and can quickly be removed when entertaining. It is a simple habit that helps furniture look beautiful for years while making your home feel even more inviting.

West Vancouver Mid-Century Home

Area Rugs

One of my biggest design lessons came from my own home. Several years ago, I invested in a beautiful living room rug that I absolutely loved. Less than 6 months later, my previous dog, Sam, became ill one evening and unfortunately got sick on it several times. Despite every cleaning method I could find, I was never able to completely remove the stains, and eventually I rolled up the rug and retired it to the garage.

Looking back, the problem wasn’t simply the accident. It was the fibre.

That rug contained viscose, a material I now avoid recommending in homes with pets. Instead, I almost always encourage clients to consider wool rugs. Wool naturally contains lanolin, an oil that helps repel dirt and makes the fibres much easier to clean. It is one of the most practical, durable, and beautiful choices for busy family homes.

Small decisions like these often have the greatest impact over time. Choosing materials that support your lifestyle allows you to enjoy your home with confidence rather than constantly worrying about preserving it.

West Vancouver Coastal Home

Designing for Every Stage of Your Pet’s Life

Just as our homes evolve over time, so do the needs of our pets. When welcoming a new puppy or kitten, a few temporary adjustments can make life considerably easier.

Rolling up area rugs during the house-training stage helps protect your investment and gives you one less thing to worry about. Using baby gates or closing doors can also establish safe boundaries while your newest family member learns which spaces are theirs to explore. The younger, at times destructive, phase may feel like a long season in the moment, thankfully it doesn’t last forever.

As our pets grow older, different considerations begin to shape the home. Senior dogs often benefit from additional traction on slippery flooring, making runners and area rugs valuable additions that help reduce the risk of falls. Washable rugs and durable flooring can also make life easier should mobility or incontinence become a concern later in life.

West Vancouver Coastal Home

Pet-Friendly Details We Consider for Our Clients

One of the things I enjoy most about our work is getting to know not only our clients, but their pets as well. Every family lives differently, and every animal brings its own personality to a home. Those details often influence the design decisions we make.

Cats, in particular, often require a little extra consideration. When selecting upholstery for clients with cats, we carefully avoid fabrics that are easily snagged or pulled by claws, such as bouclé or open weaves. In some cases, we have even attached upholstery samples to a pet’s favourite scratching post before finalizing a custom furniture selection. It is a simple test, but one that provides valuable peace of mind before making a significant investment.

Newfoundland Family Home

Even with careful planning, pets occasionally surprise us.

I still remember completing a beautiful bedroom installation featuring custom bedding and luxurious feather duvets. The following day, the client called to let us know their cat had promptly marked their territory on the bed shortly after we left. Fortunately, we were able to provide detailed cleaning instructions, and every piece was successfully salvaged.

Experiences like these remind me that good design is about creating a home that can be lived in. It is about anticipating real life, making thoughtful decisions, and helping our clients feel prepared for the unexpected.

Key Takeaways

• Beautiful homes and beloved pets can coexist with thoughtful planning.
• Durable flooring, performance fabrics, washable textiles, and wool rugs help create interiors that stand up to everyday life.
• Designing for both young and senior pets allows your home to evolve alongside your family.
• Every detail, from upholstery selection to flooring, should reflect how you naturally live.
• The most successful homes balance beauty, function, and the realities of everyday life.

Creating a Home That Welcomes Every Member of the Family

Designing for pets has never meant compromising on beauty. It is quite the opposite. I believe the most successful homes are the ones that embrace real life, allowing every member of the family to feel comfortable and at home.

With thoughtful planning and carefully considered materials, it is entirely possible to create a home that feels refined, welcoming, and resilient enough for muddy paws, afternoon naps in a sunny window, and every season of life your pets will share with you.

If you have a home furnishing project on the horizon and would like a home that supports both your lifestyle and your four-legged family members, we would be honoured to help.

Until next time,

Lori

When embarking on a home decorating project, it is natural to feel eager for the finished result. However, with over 20 years of experience, I can assure you that the journey is just as important as the destination. Decorating and furnishing your home is a thoughtful process that requires time, patience, and careful planning.

Following a proven process — and completing each phase in the proper order — is what keeps your project moving forward efficiently and helps avoid costly mistakes, delays, or having to redo work later on. Our process is built around careful coordination, clear communication, and attention to detail.

01. Discovery

Our journey begins with an on-site Design Discovery Session. This initial meeting allows us to understand your project and its scope thoroughly. Afterward, we refine our notes and outline your project details. If we determine we are a good fit for your project, we will provide these notes along with a detailed proposal for our design services within 5 business days.

Effective timeline management starts from the very beginning. We carefully schedule each project to ensure it receives the dedicated attention it deserves, avoiding any overlapping stages with other projects. While this approach may result in a longer wait time to begin, it allows us to maintain steady progress and momentum, ensuring a smooth and continuous process.

02. Design

Within 1-2 weeks of our initial Discovery Session, we schedule a call with you to review the proposal and contract. Once you accept, we set up your Trade Day. Ideally, this occurs within a month, but it may extend up to 3 months depending on our project schedule. During this phase, open communication is key. We set clear expectations from the beginning and address any differing opinions or new ideas to keep the process efficient and on track.

As a client, it can be easy to underestimate how much work goes into developing a complete design concept before any purchasing decisions can be made. While progress may feel invisible, behind the scenes we are creating floor plans, refining layouts, sourcing furnishings and materials, selecting finishes, and coordinating with trades and suppliers.

Once the design has been finalized, we obtain pricing for all labour, materials and products — a process that can take up to two weeks on its own. Because pricing can fluctuate, this step must happen after the design work is complete to ensure the investment plan is as accurate as possible.

The design process itself spans 8 to 16 weeks and culminates in a design presentation, followed by a two-week period for any revisions. While it may seem beneficial or quicker to dive into the work immediately, doing so without a complete and approved plan can often lead to additional costs, extra work, or compromises that could have been avoided.

For example, we have occasionally had clients eager to begin work before the design phase was complete. In one case, hardwood floors were refinished early in the process, only for the finalized design to include a new fireplace surround that exposed unfinished flooring beneath. The floors ultimately required additional finishing work that could have been avoided had the complete design been established first.

The planning completed during this phase lays the foundation for a successful project. The more thoroughly we plan before moving into procurement and implementation, the smoother the entire process becomes. Once you approve the design, we finalize the investment plan, collect your deposit, and conduct a thorough pre-order meeting before the procurement process begins.

03. Procurement

In the Procurement phase, the timeline can vary significantly depending on the scope of your project, and suppliers’ lead times. Unlike renovations, decorating projects do not require permits, but the lead times for furniture and decor items are often longer than those for construction materials. Typical lead times range from 12 to 16 weeks once orders are placed.

Effective management of trade and supplier timelines is crucial during this phase. We diligently follow up weekly on all orders and stay updated on the delivery schedules for goods (tedious work that you don’t have to do!). Each item is carefully inspected upon arrival and issues are promptly addressed to  minimize delays. Despite our best efforts, there are almost always backordered items and a punch list of resolutions after installation day.  

Please Note: While we aim to provide accurate timelines, we often find ourselves at the mercy of external factors such as trade availability and supply chain issues that can affect everything from initial quotes to final delivery.

04. Installation

Once at least 80% of your items have arrived, we will schedule your project installation. If trade work such as painting or custom millwork is part of your project scope, it will be completed before any new furniture is brought into your home.

Despite our thorough planning, challenges can still arise during this phase. Unlike renovation issues, which can often be quickly resolved with a return visit from a trade professional, decorating resolutions generally have a lengthier timeline. Replacing a deficient product often involves going through the entire ordering process again, which resets the lead time.

We do everything in our power to prevent delays, though some factors remain beyond our control. When challenges arise, we work proactively to minimize any disruption to your daily life — whether that means providing loaner furniture or finding other thoughtful solutions so you can continue living comfortably while we work toward a resolution.

Quick Takeaways: How Long Does It Take to Furnish & Decorate a Home?

• Most full-service decorating projects take approximately 6 months from Trade Day to completion.
• The process includes four phases: Discovery, Design, Procurement, and Installation.
• The Design Phase typically takes 8–16 weeks and includes space planning, sourcing, material selections, and pricing.
• The Procurement Phase typically involves 12–16 week lead times for furniture and decor once orders are placed.
• Much of the work happens behind the scenes before furniture arrives, including design development, supplier coordination, and order management.
• Following a structured process helps avoid costly mistakes, delays, and unnecessary rework.

Ensuring a Successful Decorating Project

A successful decorating project typically takes approximately 6 months from Trade Day to completion. By following each phase in order, we are able to make informed decisions, avoid costly surprises, and create a home plan that supports your lifestyle with ease.

If you are ready to begin this transformative journey, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Yours,

Lori

From photography and drawings to textiles and three-dimensional installations, the artwork you choose to display in your home has the potential to tell your story, reflect your style, and create a connection to the places and people you value most.

In our interior decorating projects, we treat artwork not as an afterthought, but as an essential part of the overall vision for a space.

Whether you already have an extensive collection or are just beginning to explore the idea of acquiring art, we work closely with you to ensure that each piece is meaningful, intentional, and thoughtfully placed within your home. Here is how we approach the process:

Step 1. Start with what you already have

The first step is to take inventory and look at what you already own. This might be family photos, cherished heirloom furnishings, or statement artwork that holds personal meaning. Oftentimes our clients come to us with pieces that carry memories, mark milestones, or simply speak to them on an emotional level. These items often become the starting point for the design. They might inspire the colour palette, set the tone for the textures and finishes, or influence the overall mood of the room.

In our Traditional Dollarton Project, pictured above, the dining room is brought to life through a vibrant nature-inspired painting from local Vancouver artist Krista Johnson. This artwork establishes the palette and mood for the surrounding design elements. Alongside it, the family’s antique dining table and sideboard bring a sense of history and continuity. Together, the art and furnishings illustrate how old and new can work together to create a home that feels both meaningful and fresh.

Step 2. Identify What’s Missing

Once we know which pieces will stay, we look at the room with fresh eyes to see what the space might still need. Is there an open wall that feels too bare? Does the room lack texture or variation in scale? Sometimes the answer is sourcing a new piece to balance proportions, other times it is about adding depth, colour, or material interest to complete the story of the space.

When we source new pieces, we always begin locally. We work with Vancouver-based galleries and Canadian makers to find art that aligns with our clients’ taste and the aesthetic of their home. This not only supports local artists and our economy, but also creates a sense of place that feels authentic.

In this West Vancouver coastal-inspired dining room (pictured above), a panoramic seascape painting balances the scale of a long wall and sets a serene colour story for the space. Its horizon line echoes the natural textures found in both the shiplap and subtle grasscloth wallpaper, while the placement grounds the space and brings the design together.

That same sense of calm extends just beyond the French doors into the adjoining home office…

Here, with smooth walls as the backdrop, a glimmering abstract painting by North Vancouver artist Donna Giraud introduces depth, dimension, and texture. Gold accents in the artwork are mirrored in the drapery and unify the room while enhancing its contemporary character.

Together, these two spaces show how thoughtfully selected pieces can both complete a room and create continuity across adjoining areas.

Step 3. Select Pieces That Work Together

Integrating new artwork with items you already own requires a balance of proportion, colour, and style. In some cases, this may involve updating frames to create cohesion. Other times, it’s as simple as introducing a unifying thread, such as a shared palette or a consistent frame colour across rooms. Tactile qualities matter just as much as visual ones. Pairing a painting with a textile, or placing a ceramic piece beside a photograph, brings dimension and keeps the eye moving through the space.

In our Larkhall Crescent Project, pictured above, grayscale botanical photographs by local artist Heather Johnston echo the organic nature of the woven wall hangings, while contrasting textures add interest. Black accents in both the frames and baskets tie everything together, striking a balance between simplicity and warmth.

Designer Tip: Galleries are often happy to bring pieces to your home so you can see them in context. Trust your instincts. If you love a piece and it works within your space, it is the right choice. Equally important, do not hesitate to say “no” if something does not feel right.

Step 4. Placement with Purpose

Artwork does not need to be reserved for the main living areas. We love incorporating art into every room of the home. A small painting in the powder room? Yes! Thoughtful placement can infuse personality and delight to even the most unexpected corners — from sculptures displayed in a hallway to paintings tucked in the walk-in closet. These touches create moments of joy in the spaces you pass through every day. Our PEI Project beautifully illustrates this idea.

From a jewel-box powder room with a locally inspired farm painting, to a colourful painting displayed in our clients’ incredible walk-in closet, to a mezzanine that proudly showcases collected glass and ceramics from their travels, this home uses art to reflect nature, beauty, and personal story at every turn.

Of course, practical considerations matter too. Works on paper or moisture-sensitive mediums are best kept out of high-humidity areas like bathrooms, while fragile ceramics and sculptures should be positioned safely out of reach of pets and children.

Step 5. Collaborate with a Designer

Incorporating art into a home is a collaborative process. We guide our clients in selecting, refining, and arranging pieces so that they feel like a natural extension of the space. Ultimately, the most important factor is that each piece of artwork resonates with you and infuses your home with personality.

Whether it is an heirloom, a piece from a local gallery, or something discovered while travelling, artwork should bring a sense of connection and enjoyment every time you see it.

Key Takeaways for Incorporating Artwork into Your Home

• Start with what you have. Use existing artwork you love as a foundation for your design, drawing inspiration from its colours, textures, and mood.
• Identify what is missing. Look for opportunities to enhance your space with new pieces — we often source from Vancouver-based galleries and Canadian makers to support local talent and create a sense of place.
• Select pieces that work together. Pay attention to scale, proportion, and framing, and mix mediums to add depth and interest.
• Place artwork with purpose. Incorporate art into every room of your home, including unexpected spaces like powder rooms, hallways, and laundry rooms, while keeping practical considerations in mind.
• Work with a designer. An experienced interior decorator can help you curate, source, and place artwork so it feels like a natural extension of your home and personal style.
• Additional Tip: When visiting a gallery, bring a photo of the wall you’re looking to fill, along with images of the surrounding furniture, finishes, and lighting. Having that visual context makes it much easier for the gallery staff to recommend options that will fit.

As our client, you benefit from a design process that thoughtfully incorporates artwork into your home, ensuring each piece feels intentional and connected to your space. When you are ready to begin your home decorating project, I invite you to reach out to us here.

Yours,

Lori

Wallpaper is one of the most versatile design tools we use to transform our clients’ homes. From adding subtle texture to making bold statements, wallpaper allows us to infuse personality, warmth, and one-of-a-kind character into any space.

While wallpaper was once associated with outdated patterns and difficult installations, modern-day wallpaper is anything but. 

Today’s options include luxurious textures, custom murals, and innovative designs that can elevate your home in ways you never imagined. This month, it is my hope that you will enjoy expanding your imagination with a room-by-room exploration of beautiful wallpaper at work.

Restorative Bedrooms: Soothing Accent Walls

Wallpaper is a wonderful way to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere perfect for any place of respite. We often use wallpaper in our client projects to create an accent wall behind the bed, resulting in a beautiful backdrop that anchors the room and serves as a subtle focal point.

The key here is balance. We thoughtfully select soft, soothing patterns or textures that don’t overwhelm the space—think simple stripes, botanical prints, or subtle patterns. For a truly cohesive look, we paint the other walls in a colour that ties in seamlessly with the wallpaper’s background.

For clients who crave a more immersive, layered feel, wallpapering all four walls in a bedroom can be transformative as well. Imagine falling asleep surrounded by a soft tonal print or a serene textured paper that creates a cocoon-like effect. This approach works beautifully in smaller rooms or guest bedrooms, where the intimacy of the space lends itself to a more dramatic treatment.

Projects: Modern Principle Suite (left) and West Side Family Home (right)

Dining Rooms & Lounges: Immersive Textures & Subtle Details

Speaking of dramatic treatments, the dining room is an ideal space to experiment with wallpaper, particularly when paired with architectural details like wainscoting, beadboard or shiplap. One of our favourite approaches is to use grasscloth or other textured wallpapers above wall panelling. This combination adds depth and dimension while maintaining a timeless, refined aesthetic.

Grasscloth, with its natural woven texture, works beautifully in dining rooms because it adds warmth and visual interest without being overpowering. For clients who prefer something bolder, we might suggest a patterned wallpaper or metallic accents, adding just a touch of glamour. In spaces with limited natural light, we often use lighter tones and patterns to keep the room feeling bright and inviting.

Projects: West Vancouver Coastal Home (left) and Classic Dining Room in our Kensington Family Home (right)

Kids’ Space: Playful Patterns & Imaginative Murals

Children’s rooms are a great place to get creative and inject a sense of fun with imaginative wallpaper, quickly turning a child’s room into a magical, inspiring retreat. 

Covering all four walls can create an immersive experience, but we also love using a single accent wall — including murals — for a playful yet balanced look. Whether it involves geometric shapes, a soothing forest landscape, or a scene as vibrant as a giant ferris wheel, they set the tone of the room in a big way. 

Pro Tip: When working with wallpaper in kids’ rooms, durability is key. For high-traffic areas like playrooms, we prefer vinyl wallpaper. It is a practical option that stands up to wear and tear while still looking beautiful.

Projects: Prince Edward Island Estate (left) and West Side Family Home Playroom (right)

Powder Room: A Splash of the Unexpected

If there is one space in the home where we love to go all out with wallpaper, it’s the powder room. Small and self-contained, powder rooms are perfect for experimenting with bold patterns, whimsical prints, or rich textures. These bolder options might feel overwhelming in larger spaces, but in here, they surprise and delight.

For a recent client, we used a wallpaper featuring whimsical fish in vibrant colours, transforming the powder room into a conversation piece. Whether we are working with a refreshing botanical pattern, an elegant script print, or something entirely unexpected, the goal is always to create a space that feels unique and full of personality.

Projects: West Vancouver Coastal Home (left) Prince Edward Island Estate (center) and SHD’s North Vancouver Studio (right) 

Beyond the Walls: Ceilings, Built-Ins & More

Wallpaper isn’t just for walls. Some of our most creative designs involve using wallpaper in unexpected places, like on ceilings or in the backs of built-ins. These applications add layers of interest and personality while elevating spaces that might otherwise go unnoticed.

In our recent West Vancouver Project, we used wallpaper on the ceiling of their home office to draw the eye upward, make the room feel more open, and create visual space for thoughtful contemplation. 

Wallpapering stairwells or hallways is another great way to add intrigue to transitional spaces. With the right pattern or texture, these often-overlooked areas can become head-turning design features in their own right.

Projects: West Vancouver Coastal Home (left) and West Side Traditional Home (right)

Ensuring a Flawless Finish

Remember when I said that today’s wallpaper is easy to remove? This is true provided you have expert installation. The key to achieving a flawless finish with wallpaper is in the details. Wallpaper selection and installation require a trained eye and skilled hands to ensure everything is done right. 

From choosing the appropriate pattern scale to properly aligning seams, a professional eye and a skilled installer can make all the difference in the final result. Proper wall preparation, such as applying sizing, ensures easy removal down the road and protects your walls from damage.

At Simply Home Decorating, we guide our clients through every step of the wallpapering process—from selecting the perfect pattern to working with experienced installers who deliver exceptional results. If you are ready to explore the transformative potential of wallpaper in your home, we would love to help you create something truly special.

Yours,

Lori

Over the years, I have noticed something interesting when working with clients. When it comes to how people see their homes, most tend to fall into one of two camps. I like to call them “buttoned up” and “buttoned down.” There are certainly degrees within each, yet it is usually quite easy to sense which direction someone naturally leans.

Understanding this distinction can be incredibly helpful during the design process. It often shapes everything from material selections to how a home ultimately feels day to day. One approach is not inherently better than the other. The beauty lies in creating a home that supports the way you naturally live.

The Buttoned-Up Home: Polished, Ordered, and Intentional

The buttoned-up homeowner gravitates toward polished perfection. They prefer materials that look new for as long as possible. In the buttoned-up home, everything has its place. Interiors feel edited and intentional, often leaning toward minimalism. There is comfort in order, clarity, and structure.

These homes tend to feel calm and highly organized, with every detail carefully considered. Furnishings often maintain their shape beautifully over time, and finishes are selected for their durability and low maintenance. The overall aesthetic is refined, streamlined, and thoughtfully composed.

If you are naturally buttoned up, I would guide you toward foam cushion inserts that hold their shape, man-made solid surface countertops that resist staining, lacquered metal finishes that will not tarnish, and performance fabrics or nylon carpets designed for durability. These materials are practical, long-lasting, and beautifully composed with minimal maintenance.

The Buttoned-Down Home: Relaxed, Layered, and Collected

The buttoned-down homeowner is drawn to a more relaxed, old-world sensibility. They appreciate an eclectic mix of vintage or antique pieces layered with newer elements. They welcome marble that develops a patina and unlacquered brass that softens over time.

Rather than striving for perfection, these homeowners often embrace character and evolution. Spaces feel curated with intention, yet never overly rigid. A collected interior tells a story over time, allowing furnishings and materials to age gracefully alongside the people living within them.

One of the most recognizable characteristics of a buttoned-down home is what I like to call “comfort wrinkles.” A feather-wrapped sofa cushion, for example, softens and relaxes with use. It invites you to sink in rather than sit perfectly upright. Those subtle wrinkles become part of the charm rather than something to fix.

If you lean buttoned down, feather-wrapped cushions offer softness and movement, while natural stone like marble brings character to countertops. Unlacquered brass develops depth over time, and wool carpets or natural fibres such as cotton and linen introduce warmth and authenticity. These materials are still durable, though they evolve with age and require a bit more care.

The Influence of Time, Travel, and Perspective

When I look back over the years, most of our clients have naturally fallen into the buttoned-up camp. I suspect my own appreciation for order, thoughtful details, and polished interiors may have played a role in that. In Vancouver, we also tend to work in newer homes where clean lines and a more tailored aesthetic feel very appropriate to the architecture and lifestyle.

At the same time, the more I travel to Europe, and perhaps simply with age, the more I find myself appreciating homes that embrace a sense of history and evolution. In places like Provence or rural Spain, time is not hidden, it is honoured. Surfaces carry evidence of life, and that is precisely what makes them so beautiful. A worn limestone floor, softened brass hardware, or an antique table with visible imperfections creates a warmth and authenticity that feels deeply inviting.

More and more, I find myself drawn to interiors that balance both perspectives. A home can feel polished and intentional while still allowing room for softness, character, and the quiet beauty that comes with living well over time.

Key Takeaways

• Buttoned-up homes tend to feel polished, structured, and highly organized, with materials chosen for durability and ease of maintenance.
• Buttoned-down homes embrace softness, patina, and collected character, favouring natural materials that evolve beautifully over time.
• Neither style is better than the other. The most successful interiors reflect the way you naturally live and what makes you feel most at home.

Designing a Home That Supports Real Life

Most of us naturally gravitate toward what feels familiar and comfortable. Some people feel most at ease in a home that is polished, while others are drawn to spaces that feel layered, relaxed, and collected over time. The truth is, many of us fall somewhere in between. My role is never to push clients into one style or another. It is about listening carefully and designing a home that feels authentic to the way you live every day. 

Whether you lean buttoned up, buttoned down, or somewhere in between, the most beautiful homes are the ones that feel authentic to the people living in them. If you are ready to create a home that makes you feel at ease, I would love to help guide the process.

Yours,

Lori

There is a moment in every discovery conversation when we begin to speak about investment. Clients often arrive with a number in mind — one that reflects what feels comfortable to them and the vision they imagine for their home.

What this conversation often uncovers is something more meaningful: what it truly takes to bring that vision to life in a way that feels refined, personal, and aligned with how you live.

As you begin this process, it can be helpful to understand what to expect, all that is involved and how we guide you every step of the way.

What’s Involved in Your Home Design Investment

The level of investment in your home is shaped by several key factors, including the scope of work, the degree of customization, and the quality of furnishings selected. Your long-term plans also play an important role.

It is also natural for expectations to evolve as the vision becomes clearer. As we begin to layer in the details, many clients gain a deeper understanding of what is possible, and where a more intentional investment can have the greatest impact.

When you partner with us, that investment extends far beyond the home itself. You are investing in over 25 years of experience and a carefully honed process designed to support you at every stage. It also provides exclusive access to a trusted network of trades and long-standing vendor relationships, along with the ability to source quality furnishings at preferred pricing — elements that bring both value and confidence to the process.

Our role is to bring clarity, ease decision-making, and guide you toward a result that feels refined, functional, and thoughtfully tailored to your everyday life.

How Our Design Fees Are Structured

One of the most common questions we receive is how our design fees are structured. Our approach is designed to feel clear and supportive, so you always understand what to expect as your project moves forward.

Flat Fee: We begin with a flat fee that covers the early stages of the process, including your Design Discovery Session. If you choose to move forward, this also includes a virtual contract review where we walk you through each step in detail. The design phase is also structured as a flat fee, based on a clearly defined scope of work, and includes one round of revisions to ensure everything feels aligned before moving ahead.

Procurement and Project Management Fee: As your project moves into implementation, a procurement and project management fee is applied. This is calculated as a percentage of the preferred pricing we’re able to offer through our trusted vendors. It allows us to manage every detail on your behalf — from ordering and tracking to coordinating with trades — so the entire process feels seamless and handled.

Hourly Rate: The final stage includes installation and any remaining details, which are billed on an hourly basis. Because this phase can vary, this approach ensures you are only billed for the time required to complete your home with care and attention.

This layered structure allows each phase of your project to be thoughtfully supported, while giving you clarity and confidence in how your investment is applied.

Preparing for a Smooth and Successful Project

Every successful project begins with clarity and a shared sense of direction. Before we begin, we guide our clients through a few thoughtful steps that help create a strong foundation for the work ahead.

Create a Complete Wish List: Begin by outlining everything you would love to include in your home without limitations. While not every detail may be implemented, this exercise allows us to fully understand your vision.

Identify Your Top Priorities: Once your ideas are on the table, we work with you to define what matters most. This helps guide decisions along the way and ensures that, should adjustments be needed, your priorities remain at the centre.

Ensure All Decision-Makers Are Aligned: Clarity between decision-makers is essential. When everyone begins with a shared understanding, the process moves forward more smoothly.

With this thoughtful preparation in place, the design process becomes not only more seamless, but far more rewarding. The experience is efficient, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable.

Determining Your Best Path Forward

As your design begins to take shape, there are often a few different ways to move forward. Some clients choose to fully realize the complete vision from the outset, while others prefer to refine the scope or complete their project in phases over time. Each path is considered carefully, allowing your investment to align with your priorities and how you want to live, both now and in the years ahead.

What matters most is that you feel comfortable and confident in the direction you choose. Our role is to provide clarity around what each option looks like, so your decisions feel informed and well supported.

Following your Design Discovery Session, we develop a preliminary framework that outlines the level of investment required to achieve your vision. This early insight allows you to see the full picture, helping you move forward with confidence and a clear sense of direction.

From there, we guide every stage of the process—from concept development through to sourcing, procurement, and final installation.

Key Takeaways

A thoughtful interior design investment is about far more than furnishings alone. It is a carefully guided process that brings together expertise, planning, trusted relationships, and every detail required to create a home that feels refined, functional, and deeply personal.

• Your investment is shaped by the scope of work, level of customization, and quality of furnishings selected.
• Clear fee structures and guided project management help create confidence and clarity throughout the process.
• Preparation — including defining priorities and aligning decision-makers — helps projects move forward more smoothly and efficiently.
• Every homeowner’s path is different. Some projects are completed all at once, while others are approached in thoughtful phases over time.
• A well-designed home is created through intentional decisions and a collaborative process that helps you feel supported from beginning to end.

Begin with Clarity

A well-designed home is not created all at once. It is shaped through thoughtful decisions, careful planning, and a process that supports you from beginning to end.

If you are considering a project and would like to explore what this could look like for your home, please reach out here. We would be happy to guide you through the possibilities and help you take the next step with confidence.

Until next time,
Lori

Bathrooms, kitchens, pantries and mudrooms, often described as the “functional” rooms of the home, are usually where decorating quietly takes a back seat. They are viewed as practical, perhaps messy, and sometimes hidden from guests. Investments are understandably directed toward cabinetry, appliances, tile and plumbing fixtures, and by the time those substantial decisions are made, it can feel as though the work is done.

Yet these are the spaces that support the rhythm of daily life.

They hold our morning routines, the rush of after-school hours, the folding of endless laundry, the preparation of meals, and the quiet end-of-day retreat. They are also among the most costly rooms to renovate. For that reason alone, they deserve to be approached with intention from the beginning.

If we are already investing in beautiful hard finishes, why stop there?

When thoughtfully layered, these hardworking rooms can feel just as warm, personal and refined as any living space in the home. Here is how we approach furnishing and decorating them so they feel cohesive, elevated and entirely livable, without ever sacrificing durability.

1. Layering Personality with Art & Collected Details

Cabinetry and tile may form the foundation of a kitchen or bathroom, yet it is the layering that makes a space feel complete. Art belongs in every room of the home. Functional spaces are no exception. In our PEI Project, pictured below, the pantry was treated as a destination rather than a pass-through. 

The back wall became a focal point, anchored by colourful artwork that draws you through the kitchen with intention. The patterned wallpaper and millwork establish character, yet it is the art that introduces personality. What could have been a simple storage area becomes a moment.

In the adjoining kitchen, we saw the open shelving along the main island as an opportunity for thoughtful styling.

Collected copper vessels, ceramics and stacked books bring warmth and texture against the navy cabinetry. These shelves work hard, yet they feel curated, intentional, and elevated. Decorative objects soften the millwork and add a sense of livable luxury to a space used every single day.

Notice how none of these additions are extravagant. They are deliberate. Every detail carefully considered so the room feels refined yet relaxed rather than purely utilitarian.

2. Using Wallpaper for Warmth & Character

Wallpaper has the power to completely transform any space, and I particularly love using it in functional rooms. In wet areas, we specify vinyl wallpaper for durability. Proper ventilation and thoughtful installation ensure longevity. The goal is not to avoid beauty in moisture-prone spaces, but to curate with intention and choose materials that support how the room is used.

In the primary ensuite of our Newfoundland Project, we introduced wallpaper to soften the crisp white millwork and create visual depth.

The neutral floral pattern wraps the room gently, adding warmth and character without overwhelming the architecture. This addition makes the space feel layered and inviting rather than bare and clinical. Underfoot, the chevron tile floors resemble wood, bringing movement and subtle pattern and becoming part of the design language. It catches the eye and adds dimension, proving that even the most practical surfaces can double as art.

3. Creating Softness with Area Rugs

There is a long-standing belief that kitchens and bathrooms must be tile-only zones. While durable, that approach can leave these spaces feeling sterile and acoustically harsh. Today’s area rugs are available in durable and washable materials designed specifically for real life. Antique carpets have already withstood decades of use and, when crafted from 100% wool, can tolerate some moisture provided they are allowed to dry properly in a well-ventilated environment.

Additionally, an area rug absorbs sound, introduces texture, and visually grounds the room. It softens hard surfaces and brings a sense of quiet comfort that tile alone cannot achieve.

In our West Vancouver Project, pictured above, we layered a soft wool area rug into the primary bathroom just beneath the freestanding tub. The addition instantly shifted the atmosphere. The space no longer felt like a collection of hard finishes. Instead, it began to feel like a retreat, refined yet relaxed, and seamlessly connected to the warmth of the rest of the home.

4. Adding Drapery in Unexpected Places

A primary ensuite is often composed almost entirely of stone, porcelain, glass and lacquered finishes. The materials are beautiful. The craftsmanship is impeccable. Yet without softness, the room can feel more functional than restorative. One of my favourite ways to shift that feeling? Drapery.

Fabric introduces movement, colour and warmth in a way few other elements can. With proper ventilation and thoughtful fabric selection, softness and durability can coexist effortlessly, even in a bathroom.

In our PEI Project, pictured above, we incorporated full-height drapery and a tailored Roman shade in a vibrant floral motif. The fabric frames the freestanding tub and draws the eye upward, adding both verticality and personality. Paired with crisp millwork and marble flooring, the drapery softens the architecture and brings a sense of livable luxury to the space.

What makes this space feel truly layered, however, is the combination of elements. The underwater artwork above the tub introduces another moment of colour and personality, while the patterned wallpaper in the adjoining space creates continuity and depth. The result feels less like a room designed purely for function and more like a personalized private retreat.

5. Materials That Withstand Real Life

Functional spaces experience daily wear, from water and humidity to muddy boots and pet paws. Selecting the right materials from the beginning allows us to design rooms that feel elevated without feeling fragile.

Performance fabrics, often referred to as indoor/outdoor textiles, are one of my favourite tools in hardworking spaces. Many can be cleaned with a diluted bleach solution, making them ideal for kitchens, mudrooms and laundry rooms where spills from food, water, pets and children are inevitable. This opens the door to incorporating upholstered benches, cushions and seating in places that might otherwise feel austere.

In the Newfoundland mudroom, shown above, durable cabinetry finished in a soft sage provides generous storage while standing up beautifully to daily use. Matte black hardware adds contrast and strength, while the upholstered bench tucked next to the door invites comfort and warmth.

The patterned Roman shade brings colour and personality without sacrificing practicality. Underfoot, a washable area rug softens the tile and absorbs sound, creating a space that feels refined yet relaxed, even on the busiest mornings.

Hard surfaces deserve equal consideration.

In the powder room pictured above, we designed a vanity that resembles a piece of furniture. The fluted wood detailing adds texture and warmth, elevating the bathroom beyond the purely functional. Beside the mirror, two sculptural light fixtures catch the eye upward and introduce softness through form.

These spaces are proof that when foundational materials are selected wisely, we gain the freedom to layer warmth and personality without hesitation. The result is a home that supports your real life while still feeling beautiful and complete.

Key Points on Decorating Kitchens, Bathrooms & Mudrooms

• Functional spaces deserve the same thoughtful furnishing and layering as living areas.
• Art, decorative objects and collected details bring personality to even the most practical rooms.
• Wallpaper adds warmth and depth, especially when durable materials are specified for moisture-prone areas.
• Area rugs soften hard surfaces, absorb sound and help kitchens and bathrooms feel more connected to the rest of the home.
• Drapery and textiles introduce comfort and visual softness in rooms often dominated by tile and stone.
• Selecting durable materials and performance fabrics ensures these spaces remain both beautiful and practical.
• When every detail is carefully considered, even the most hardworking rooms can feel refined, relaxed and entirely livable.

Every Room Deserves to Feel Like Home

When functional spaces are treated with the same care as living areas, the entire home feels cohesive. After all, livable luxury is not about excess. It is about ensuring that even the rooms where chores happen feel calm, layered and welcoming.

If you would like to reimagine your own home, reach out here. I would be delighted to help you create personal, thoughtfully layered, hardworking spaces that make you feel at ease every single day.

Yours,

Lori

Interior design is about far more than selecting beautiful pieces. At its core, it’s a thoughtful, collaborative process that begins with understanding how you live and what you value most.

In my over 25 years of experience, I have found that great design requires careful listening, informed decision-making, and a deep knowledge of furnishings, materials, lighting, and the finishing details that bring a home together. When done well, design quietly supports everyday life and creates spaces that feel effortless and deeply personal.

Here, I am sharing a behind-the-scenes look at how a designer helps you transform a house into a home that makes you feel at ease.

1. An Interior Designer Brings Deep Industry Knowledge and Expertise

Interior designers are expected to bring an incredible range of knowledge to every project. That includes understanding quality craftsmanship, selecting the right paint colours, planning thoughtful lighting, and curating furnishings and materials that suit your family’s lifestyle.

This level of expertise comes from years of hands-on experience, collaboration with skilled professionals, and, yes, learning from mistakes along the way. After two decades in this industry, there is little that surprises me, but I am still learning on every project. That is one of the things I love most about this work.

Dollarton Traditional Home

2. An Interior Designer Manages Your Home Project with Clarity and Care

Successfully completing a design and home furnishing project involves hundreds of moving parts and requires a high level of organization. Our role is to manage details, timelines, budgets and communication so everything comes together seamlessly.

We provide clear plans and specifications so everyone involved understands the vision and execution. We catch issues early, monitor your investment closely, and keep you informed of key developments from start to finish.

Most importantly, we shield you from as much unnecessary stress as possible so you can continue living your life.

Newfoundland Family Home

3. An Interior Designer Connects You with a Trusted Team of Professionals

It truly takes a village. While no one can be an expert in every aspect of the home, we pride ourselves on surrounding ourselves with people who are deeply skilled and equally passionate about their craft.

From experienced upholsterers and custom workrooms to carpenters, installers, and artisans, we are always expanding our community of trusted professionals. These relationships are built through years of collaboration, ongoing education, and attending industry events both locally and internationally.

4. An Interior Designer Creates a Home Designed Around Your Lifestyle

Every home and every family is different, and your space should reflect that. Our creative process always begins with listening. We take the time to understand what matters most to you and use those insights to create a refined yet relaxed backdrop for your life.

That might mean thoughtfully incorporating a treasured heirloom or finding the perfect way to showcase a beloved collection. Whatever brings you joy, our goal is to craft a home that tells your story so you feel at home when you walk through the door.

Dollarton Traditional Home

5. An Interior Designer Saves You Valuable Time

Time is one of our most valuable resources. Many clients come to us after spending weekends visiting showrooms, waiting for trades who never arrive, or second-guessing purchases made in frustration.

Our streamlined process allows you to step back while we manage the details, from sourcing furnishings and finishes to coordinating orders, deliveries, and installations. You gain your time back and avoid costly or regretful decisions, with the confidence that everything is being handled with care and precision.

West Vancouver Coastal Home

6. An Interior Designer Provides Full Support and Peace of Mind

Having completed numerous personal design projects over the years, I understand first hand how stressful the process can be. That experience has shaped how I support my clients.

We keep you informed while handling challenges behind the scenes whenever possible. Our approach is solutions-oriented, always focused on protecting your investment and your peace of mind. Many clients feel comfortable travelling during their projects or installations, knowing their home is in trusted hands.

West Vancouver Mid-Century Home

7. An Interior Designer Transforms Your Experience of Home

We believe great design has the power to quietly transform everyday life. When every detail is carefully considered, a home supports you effortlessly, creating spaces that feel intuitive, comfortable, and deeply personal.

Whether that means enjoying unhurried family time in a reimagined great room, hosting with confidence in a welcoming dining space, or unwinding at the end of the day in a serene primary retreat, our work is about elevating how you live at home.

I feel incredibly grateful to do work that is both meaningful and fulfilling. Partnering with clients who value quality and appreciate thoughtful design allows us to create homes that truly enhance daily life.

West Vancouver Coastal Home

Key Takeaways about Working with an Interior Designer

• Professional interior design goes far beyond aesthetics and focuses on how a home supports everyday life.
• Experience and industry knowledge help guide confident decisions and avoid costly furnishing mistakes.
• Clear project coordination keeps installations, timelines, and details running smoothly.
• Trusted trade and supplier relationships ensure a higher level of quality and craftsmanship.
• A thoughtful design process creates spaces tailored to real lifestyles rather than trends alone.
• Time and stress are reduced when sourcing, ordering, and problem-solving are handled professionally.
• The end result is a refined yet relaxed home that feels personal, functional, and complete.

If you feel your next project could benefit from our care, expertise, and support, I would love to connect.

Until next time,
Lori