An interior renovation in Toronto’s Highland Park neighborhood has masterfully blended heritage architecture with contemporary living, thanks to Ashley Botten Design. The Georgian-style residence, home to a family of six, has undergone a thoughtful expansion that includes an enlarged kitchen and a new primary bedroom with an ensuite bath on the second floor. The renovation carefully preserves original details such as elegant crown molding, Cremone bolts, and French doors, while adding modern touches to enhance the living experience. With four grown children and two dogs, the design also prioritizes ease of maintenance.
The renovation emphasizes spatial experience and an earthy color scheme, featuring materials like white and brown marble, grey limestone, raw copper, and the soft texture of smoked white oak for floors and built-in cabinetry. Ashley Botten Design (abd) skillfully integrated custom furniture with new additions and the family’s existing pieces. In the dining area, the vintage Eero Saarinen tulip chairs are complemented by an oval dining table designed by Yabu Pushelberg. The living room highlights a custom-designed limestone mantelpiece that echoes the geometry of the room’s traditional door casings and moldings.
One of the most striking features of the renovation is a deep entryway that transitions from the formal front rooms to the expanded kitchen and adjoining family room. This unique space is clad in live copper on all sides, creating a minimalist framework that seamlessly connects the home’s historical and contemporary elements.
The warm palette continues on the second floor, encompassing the primary bedroom, walk-in closet, bathroom, and office. Finishing details are thoughtfully integrated, with a mix of hardware shapes and warm metals adding character to the home. For instance, polished brass T-bar pulls by abd adorn one set of dresser drawers, contrasting with linear finger pulls on a custom sideboard. These subtle variations contribute to a timeless ambiance that transcends trends.
The goal of the renovation is to create a space that is both timeless and immediately enjoyable. By blending old and new elements, Ashley Botten Design ensures that every part of the house can be appreciated now and in the future. The use of varied materials and meticulous attention to detail offer a richness and depth that go beyond aesthetic appeal, providing a truly livable and enduring home.
This renovation demonstrates how historical charm and modern sophistication can coexist harmoniously. The project not only meets the practical needs of a large family but also elevates the home’s aesthetic, creating an elegant and comfortable living space that will be cherished for years to come.
