Working with architect, Sam Makow and custom home builder, Rami Katzav of SKR Homes, a couple built their two-storey, 5,600 sq. ft. dream home. Designer Harvey Wise teamed up with the experts at Union Lighting and Furnishings to design the interior like a bespoke suite, layering grey accents with lyrical, silvered touches. Symmetry and scale create welcoming spaces in this “updated French” home that is contemporary and youthful. Lighting throughout the home was installed on a dimming system. Combined with automated blinds from Deltech Automation, this allows the homeowners complete control over the atmosphere of each room.
In the library, to the foyer’s right, a lucite chandelier playfully restates the lines of the painting, club chairs, and desk. “The homeowner wanted lighting that was substantial and wide, but not too heavy,” Lighting expert Mark Naimer, President of Union Lighting and Furnishings says. “Lucite is a great choice, allowing for lighting fixtures that are more flexible and can take many forms.”
On the left of the foyer is the living room where halogen-lit steel and glass cabinets inspired the room’s design. “They provide architecture for the room, but don’t overwhelm,” Harvey comments. He believes neutrals “provide a great canvas for showcasing beautiful light fixtures.” The articulated floor lamps each have double bulbs and chains. The LED lights for the painting are always on, bathing the room in a warm glow. Recessed LEDs in the ceiling enhance the room’s gleaming surfaces.
The dining room’s Baxter table paired with twelve Cassie dining chairs offer an elegant space for entertaining guests. The table and chairs feature clean lines, neutral colours and simple details, keeping the oversized table from overwhelming the space. The two-tiered, crackled glass chandeliers balance the look, adding a touch of glamour to the space.
“To choose a chandelier that fits properly in your dining room, add the length and width of the room in feet and then correct to inches.” suggests Naimer. “A 15 ft. by 15 ft. room should have a 30 inch chandelier about 34 inches above the table.” In a room with 8 ft. ceilings the chandelier should be 30 to 36 inches above the table. In a room with 9 ft. ceilings or higher two-tiered chandeliers offer a good lighting option.
Conversing in curls of glass and swirls of metallics, the kitchen, next to the dining room, communicates fluently with the breakfast room. The neutral colour scheme is continued here with whites and soft greys. Framed cabinetry offers a traditional touch that is offset by the modern, globe pendants. In the breakfast room, the glass theme continues with the Juliette glasstop table. A polished nickel chandelier finishes the look, repeating the shape of the table for a cohesive, polished look.
The muse for the family room was the Callie leather club chairs that the homeowners chose from Union Lighting and Furnishings. Wise designed the room to accommodate the chairs as well as views of the fireplace and TV. The display case adds light while showcasing the glass collection. Situated on the right hand and back of the centre hall, the room is an intimate retreat. “The sofas are comfortable, like a velvety puppy dog,” the homeowners observe. The lamps’ full- bodied curves and metallics add sparkle. Translucent and chic, the clear glass and polished nickel round table and lamp, like cufflinks, add closure to the seating.
“Lighting can transform rooms,” says Naimer. “In this home, we used lighting to add personality.” It is functional jewelry that creates intimate niches and warm gathering places. Perfectly picked lighting paired with rich, hardwood floors, a soft grey colour palette and elegant, clean-lined furniture, the home offers a contemporary feel that is still warm and inviting.
Text by J. Lynn Fraser
Photography by Brian Naimer
Sources:
Space Designed by Harvey Wise
Photography, Brian Naimer Photography
Builder, S.K.R. Homes
Architect, Stan Makow
Automated Blinds, Deltech Automation
Electrical Contractor, Deltech Electric
Cabinetry and Millwork, Cameo Kitchens
Light Fixtures and Lamps, Union Lighting & Furnishings
DINING ROOM: Dining Table, Chairs, Union Lighting & Furnishings
FAMILY ROOM: Sofa, Tub Chairs, Side Table, Chest, Mirror, Union Lighting & Furnishings, www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com; Coffee Table, Custom by Harvey Wise Design
KITCHEN: Stools, Dining Table, Dining Chair, Union Lighting & Furnishings
LIBRARY: Desk, Chairs, Side Table, Union Lighting & Furnishings
LIVING ROOM: Sofa, Cocktail Table, Union Lighting & Furnishings
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