Colin Price Photography
Trendy master light wood floor bedroom photo in San Francisco with blue walls

design + art direction: barbara schmidt, studiobstyle.com faucet: "Pekoe chrome faucet", americanstandard-us.com wallcovering: "Kasari Ikat", fschumacher.com Stove Tile: Jeffrey Court "Arica" glass tile, tilexdesign.com Pot Filler: Jado Contemporary pot filler, jadousa.com stove + fridge: 30" Wolf range hood and Sub-Zero refridgerator, rothdistributing.com Rug: aubryangelo.com countertops/lower cabinets- brite white #459, island: top- natural concrete #603, front-white ash #8841-WR, formica.com

Our latest project in Harlem involves the transformation of the lower two floors of a four-story brownstone into a vibrant and playful duplex apartment. The design balances functionality with whimsy, creating a bright, welcoming home full of character and personality. The main floor is designed as an open-concept living and kitchen area that maximizes both light and space. The living room is anchored by a striking custom-built floor-to-ceiling unit, which serves as a multifunctional centerpiece, combining a TV entertainment center, a bar, and display shelving. This elegant feature also subtly divides the living area from the staircase leading to the lower level. The kitchen, a focal point of the home, features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that makes full use of the high ceilings, blending grey tones with walnut finishes. A playful multicolored triangular-tiled backsplash adds an element of fun, while large glass sliding doors lead to a newly constructed deck overlooking the backyard. Above the kitchen sink, a generously sized window allows natural light to flood in, transforming what was once a dimly lit space into a bright and inviting area. At the front of the main floor, a small music studio offers flexibility and creativity. This space can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling aluminum and glass sliding partitions, maintaining the open flow of the layout while offering privacy when needed. A bold powder room further enhances the personality of the space. It features a custom black wall-mounted concrete sink with an angular design that wraps around the toilet. The sink is set against a fullheight mirrored wall, which reflects the dynamic black-and-white graffiti wallpaper, making the compact space both striking and memorable. The lower level is dedicated to the private quarters, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The primary bedroom suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a spacious ensuite bath with a luxurious open wet-room concept. At its heart is a freestanding white soaking tub, complemented by dark blue hexagonal tiles that cover the floor and extend up the wall behind the double vanities, creating a dramatic and cohesive effect. The toilet is tucked away in a separate room painted in a matching deep blue, adding to the suite’s serene and cohesive ambiance. This level also includes a second bedroom and a guest bath, each reflecting the playful design theme of the home. The guest bathroom is particularly delightful, with sunny white and yellow hexagonal tiles on the walls and a matching yellow tile floor, creating a cheerful and uplifting space. Every detail of this Harlem duplex reflects the client’s vision for a home that feels modern yet full of personality. From the playful material choices to the thoughtful use of light and space, the design celebrates the character of the historic brownstone while embracing contemporary living.

Designing a kitchen that embodies a neutral and timeless aesthetic while accommodating the client's playful and sassy personality is a delightful challenge. This kitchen combines classic elements, such as soft taupe cabinetry and elegant marble backsplash, with a chic and versatile layout that promotes both functionality and style. To inject a touch of the client’s vibrant character, playful accents like bold accessories, leather nook chairs, and unique wallcovering are thoughtfully integrated into the design. The result is a harmonious space where the calming backdrop allows the lively elements to shine, creating an inviting environment that's perfect for both everyday cooking and entertaining friends. This kitchen not only offers timeless appeal but also reflects the fun-loving spirit of its owner, making it the heart of the home where creativity and warmth flourish.

Our latest project in Harlem involves the transformation of the lower two floors of a four-story brownstone into a vibrant and playful duplex apartment. The design balances functionality with whimsy, creating a bright, welcoming home full of character and personality. The main floor is designed as an open-concept living and kitchen area that maximizes both light and space. The living room is anchored by a striking custom-built floor-to-ceiling unit, which serves as a multifunctional centerpiece, combining a TV entertainment center, a bar, and display shelving. This elegant feature also subtly divides the living area from the staircase leading to the lower level. The kitchen, a focal point of the home, features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that makes full use of the high ceilings, blending grey tones with walnut finishes. A playful multicolored triangular-tiled backsplash adds an element of fun, while large glass sliding doors lead to a newly constructed deck overlooking the backyard. Above the kitchen sink, a generously sized window allows natural light to flood in, transforming what was once a dimly lit space into a bright and inviting area. At the front of the main floor, a small music studio offers flexibility and creativity. This space can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling aluminum and glass sliding partitions, maintaining the open flow of the layout while offering privacy when needed. A bold powder room further enhances the personality of the space. It features a custom black wall-mounted concrete sink with an angular design that wraps around the toilet. The sink is set against a fullheight mirrored wall, which reflects the dynamic black-and-white graffiti wallpaper, making the compact space both striking and memorable. The lower level is dedicated to the private quarters, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The primary bedroom suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a spacious ensuite bath with a luxurious open wet-room concept. At its heart is a freestanding white soaking tub, complemented by dark blue hexagonal tiles that cover the floor and extend up the wall behind the double vanities, creating a dramatic and cohesive effect. The toilet is tucked away in a separate room painted in a matching deep blue, adding to the suite’s serene and cohesive ambiance. This level also includes a second bedroom and a guest bath, each reflecting the playful design theme of the home. The guest bathroom is particularly delightful, with sunny white and yellow hexagonal tiles on the walls and a matching yellow tile floor, creating a cheerful and uplifting space. Every detail of this Harlem duplex reflects the client’s vision for a home that feels modern yet full of personality. From the playful material choices to the thoughtful use of light and space, the design celebrates the character of the historic brownstone while embracing contemporary living.

Our latest project in Harlem involves the transformation of the lower two floors of a four-story brownstone into a vibrant and playful duplex apartment. The design balances functionality with whimsy, creating a bright, welcoming home full of character and personality. The main floor is designed as an open-concept living and kitchen area that maximizes both light and space. The living room is anchored by a striking custom-built floor-to-ceiling unit, which serves as a multifunctional centerpiece, combining a TV entertainment center, a bar, and display shelving. This elegant feature also subtly divides the living area from the staircase leading to the lower level. The kitchen, a focal point of the home, features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that makes full use of the high ceilings, blending grey tones with walnut finishes. A playful multicolored triangular-tiled backsplash adds an element of fun, while large glass sliding doors lead to a newly constructed deck overlooking the backyard. Above the kitchen sink, a generously sized window allows natural light to flood in, transforming what was once a dimly lit space into a bright and inviting area. At the front of the main floor, a small music studio offers flexibility and creativity. This space can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling aluminum and glass sliding partitions, maintaining the open flow of the layout while offering privacy when needed. A bold powder room further enhances the personality of the space. It features a custom black wall-mounted concrete sink with an angular design that wraps around the toilet. The sink is set against a fullheight mirrored wall, which reflects the dynamic black-and-white graffiti wallpaper, making the compact space both striking and memorable. The lower level is dedicated to the private quarters, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The primary bedroom suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a spacious ensuite bath with a luxurious open wet-room concept. At its heart is a freestanding white soaking tub, complemented by dark blue hexagonal tiles that cover the floor and extend up the wall behind the double vanities, creating a dramatic and cohesive effect. The toilet is tucked away in a separate room painted in a matching deep blue, adding to the suite’s serene and cohesive ambiance. This level also includes a second bedroom and a guest bath, each reflecting the playful design theme of the home. The guest bathroom is particularly delightful, with sunny white and yellow hexagonal tiles on the walls and a matching yellow tile floor, creating a cheerful and uplifting space. Every detail of this Harlem duplex reflects the client’s vision for a home that feels modern yet full of personality. From the playful material choices to the thoughtful use of light and space, the design celebrates the character of the historic brownstone while embracing contemporary living.

this graphic black and white playroom is made cozy with moroccan pouf ottomans, a gray felt rug and sheepskin pillows. the clean, white desk, chairs and storage shelf add a modern freshness.

Our latest project in Harlem involves the transformation of the lower two floors of a four-story brownstone into a vibrant and playful duplex apartment. The design balances functionality with whimsy, creating a bright, welcoming home full of character and personality. The main floor is designed as an open-concept living and kitchen area that maximizes both light and space. The living room is anchored by a striking custom-built floor-to-ceiling unit, which serves as a multifunctional centerpiece, combining a TV entertainment center, a bar, and display shelving. This elegant feature also subtly divides the living area from the staircase leading to the lower level. The kitchen, a focal point of the home, features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that makes full use of the high ceilings, blending grey tones with walnut finishes. A playful multicolored triangular-tiled backsplash adds an element of fun, while large glass sliding doors lead to a newly constructed deck overlooking the backyard. Above the kitchen sink, a generously sized window allows natural light to flood in, transforming what was once a dimly lit space into a bright and inviting area. At the front of the main floor, a small music studio offers flexibility and creativity. This space can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling aluminum and glass sliding partitions, maintaining the open flow of the layout while offering privacy when needed. A bold powder room further enhances the personality of the space. It features a custom black wall-mounted concrete sink with an angular design that wraps around the toilet. The sink is set against a fullheight mirrored wall, which reflects the dynamic black-and-white graffiti wallpaper, making the compact space both striking and memorable. The lower level is dedicated to the private quarters, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The primary bedroom suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a spacious ensuite bath with a luxurious open wet-room concept. At its heart is a freestanding white soaking tub, complemented by dark blue hexagonal tiles that cover the floor and extend up the wall behind the double vanities, creating a dramatic and cohesive effect. The toilet is tucked away in a separate room painted in a matching deep blue, adding to the suite’s serene and cohesive ambiance. This level also includes a second bedroom and a guest bath, each reflecting the playful design theme of the home. The guest bathroom is particularly delightful, with sunny white and yellow hexagonal tiles on the walls and a matching yellow tile floor, creating a cheerful and uplifting space. Every detail of this Harlem duplex reflects the client’s vision for a home that feels modern yet full of personality. From the playful material choices to the thoughtful use of light and space, the design celebrates the character of the historic brownstone while embracing contemporary living.

Our latest project in Harlem involves the transformation of the lower two floors of a four-story brownstone into a vibrant and playful duplex apartment. The design balances functionality with whimsy, creating a bright, welcoming home full of character and personality. The main floor is designed as an open-concept living and kitchen area that maximizes both light and space. The living room is anchored by a striking custom-built floor-to-ceiling unit, which serves as a multifunctional centerpiece, combining a TV entertainment center, a bar, and display shelving. This elegant feature also subtly divides the living area from the staircase leading to the lower level. The kitchen, a focal point of the home, features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that makes full use of the high ceilings, blending grey tones with walnut finishes. A playful multicolored triangular-tiled backsplash adds an element of fun, while large glass sliding doors lead to a newly constructed deck overlooking the backyard. Above the kitchen sink, a generously sized window allows natural light to flood in, transforming what was once a dimly lit space into a bright and inviting area. At the front of the main floor, a small music studio offers flexibility and creativity. This space can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling aluminum and glass sliding partitions, maintaining the open flow of the layout while offering privacy when needed. A bold powder room further enhances the personality of the space. It features a custom black wall-mounted concrete sink with an angular design that wraps around the toilet. The sink is set against a fullheight mirrored wall, which reflects the dynamic black-and-white graffiti wallpaper, making the compact space both striking and memorable. The lower level is dedicated to the private quarters, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The primary bedroom suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a spacious ensuite bath with a luxurious open wet-room concept. At its heart is a freestanding white soaking tub, complemented by dark blue hexagonal tiles that cover the floor and extend up the wall behind the double vanities, creating a dramatic and cohesive effect. The toilet is tucked away in a separate room painted in a matching deep blue, adding to the suite’s serene and cohesive ambiance. This level also includes a second bedroom and a guest bath, each reflecting the playful design theme of the home. The guest bathroom is particularly delightful, with sunny white and yellow hexagonal tiles on the walls and a matching yellow tile floor, creating a cheerful and uplifting space. Every detail of this Harlem duplex reflects the client’s vision for a home that feels modern yet full of personality. From the playful material choices to the thoughtful use of light and space, the design celebrates the character of the historic brownstone while embracing contemporary living.

Sausage Dog Pillows by Jimmie Martin California www.jimmiemartincalifornia.com Photo Credit: www.rickschultz.co.uk
Example of a mid-sized trendy enclosed living room design in London with black walls

Example of a mid-sized minimalist home design design in New York

Designed by UK born, Brooklyn based artist Jon Burgerman, Play Doodles brings to life Jon's famous doodles...where he just grabs a pen, wiggles it over a piece of paper and sees what, or who, pops out. Thinking it would be interesting to see how this could translate into 3D, he grabbed a bunch of colourful Play Doh and tried to make some fun characters without any plan, allowing the medium to dictate the results, which was a whole gaggle of funny little dudes. They are ageless, genderless, raceless and clearly embody the fun Jon had in making them. From a half-eaten cookie and a laid back corn on the cob to many abstract and curious creatures that ooze personality. When Jon and Jon started to talk about a collaboration it seemed like using the realized doodles made the most sense since they added such a colorful 3D aspect to the design. All of the characters were photographed and then built into a repeat resulting in a lively wallpaper that will bring cheer to many spaces. Play Doodles is one of our EZ Papes designs, meaning it's pre-pasted and water-activated for an easy DIY installation and removal!

Character White Oak in 6″ widths in a stunning oceanfront residence in Little Compton, Rhode Island. This home features zero VOC (sheep’s wool) insulation, solar panels, a solar hot water system, and a rainwater collection system. Flooring: Character Plain Sawn White Oak in 6″ Widths Finish: Vermont Artisan Breadloaf Finish Construction by Stack + Co. Architecture: Maryann Thompson Architects Photography by Scott Norsworthy

Master Ensuite - we kept the original retro character while adding more function and storage.
Mid-sized trendy home design photo in Vancouver

Example of a trendy formal and open concept light wood floor living room design in London with white walls

Our latest project in Harlem involves the transformation of the lower two floors of a four-story brownstone into a vibrant and playful duplex apartment. The design balances functionality with whimsy, creating a bright, welcoming home full of character and personality. The main floor is designed as an open-concept living and kitchen area that maximizes both light and space. The living room is anchored by a striking custom-built floor-to-ceiling unit, which serves as a multifunctional centerpiece, combining a TV entertainment center, a bar, and display shelving. This elegant feature also subtly divides the living area from the staircase leading to the lower level. The kitchen, a focal point of the home, features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that makes full use of the high ceilings, blending grey tones with walnut finishes. A playful multicolored triangular-tiled backsplash adds an element of fun, while large glass sliding doors lead to a newly constructed deck overlooking the backyard. Above the kitchen sink, a generously sized window allows natural light to flood in, transforming what was once a dimly lit space into a bright and inviting area. At the front of the main floor, a small music studio offers flexibility and creativity. This space can be enclosed with floor-to-ceiling aluminum and glass sliding partitions, maintaining the open flow of the layout while offering privacy when needed. A bold powder room further enhances the personality of the space. It features a custom black wall-mounted concrete sink with an angular design that wraps around the toilet. The sink is set against a fullheight mirrored wall, which reflects the dynamic black-and-white graffiti wallpaper, making the compact space both striking and memorable. The lower level is dedicated to the private quarters, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The primary bedroom suite is a true sanctuary, boasting a spacious ensuite bath with a luxurious open wet-room concept. At its heart is a freestanding white soaking tub, complemented by dark blue hexagonal tiles that cover the floor and extend up the wall behind the double vanities, creating a dramatic and cohesive effect. The toilet is tucked away in a separate room painted in a matching deep blue, adding to the suite’s serene and cohesive ambiance. This level also includes a second bedroom and a guest bath, each reflecting the playful design theme of the home. The guest bathroom is particularly delightful, with sunny white and yellow hexagonal tiles on the walls and a matching yellow tile floor, creating a cheerful and uplifting space. Every detail of this Harlem duplex reflects the client’s vision for a home that feels modern yet full of personality. From the playful material choices to the thoughtful use of light and space, the design celebrates the character of the historic brownstone while embracing contemporary living.

Tracey Ayton Photography
Transitional master carpeted bedroom photo in Vancouver with white walls

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

Donna Griffith for House and Home Magazine
Small elegant carpeted family room photo in Toronto with blue walls and a standard fireplace