House Tours
Eclectic Heirlooms Are At The Heart Of This Toronto Triplex’s Design
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
House Tours
Eclectic Heirlooms Are At The Heart Of This Toronto Triplex’s Design
Inspired by a sentimental collection of family heirlooms and architectural delights salvaged from across the world, this home is filled to the brim with stories.
“Each piece carries history, and the design became about weaving those narratives into a moody, modern framework that feels timeless yet lived-in,” says Colin Doneff, principal designer with id-One Inc. in Toronto.
The urban triplex’s reconfiguration—courtesy of Harvey Homes & Interiors—started with the removal of a pre-existing roof and balcony to create the primary suite. The neglected dormer space was transformed into another bedroom, a home office, and a gym.
Among the contemporary additions, which ultimately added 800 square feet to the treetop-skimming house, is a celebration of the past. From a historic church louver to a late-19th-century mirror sourced from Macy’s in New York City, the home was built for these treasures.
“We made these pieces the foundation of the design rather than accents,” says Doneff.
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
Soft wood hues, panelling, and hints of colour are the pillars of the mudroom and laundry area.
“We started with a grounding palette and layered in classic patterns and textures to create depth and warmth,” says Doneff.
Moody yet joyful tones are woven throughout the home. The palette fixates on forest greens, chocolate browns, and dusty rose shades that are offset by vintage-inspired metallic accents, matte finishes, and natural textures.
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
“This space is truly the heart of the home,” says Doneff. The blended kitchen-dining area is the perfect mix of modern furnishings and a step back in time.
A mossy green hidden pantry adorned with colourful tiles offers plenty of storage, while a white-washed exposed brick wall brightens the room. Wood beams overhead are a repetition of the natural material, and a large antique mirror makes the space appear bigger.
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
The true pièce-de-résistance in the dining room is the table. Bought in the early 1900s by the homeowner’s great-grandmother (using her first pay check), the antique is one of the most celebrated pieces in the home.
Hanging behind the table is a salvaged architectural church louver that brings a “loft-like atmosphere” to the space.
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
A slight departure from the rest of the home’s charming, timeless style, the colourful living room is infused with mid-century modern design. By replacing an original staircase with an elevator, the living room gained enough space for a plush sectional.
Opposite, a modern Scandi-style fireplace is clad with warm terracotta tiles and a conversational seating arrangement.
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
Added during the revamp of the home’s bones, the primary suite is a serene escape. With rosy hues embedded in the ornate accent wall behind the bed and in the ensuite’s shower tiles, this space is a masterclass in layering textures and tones.
Photography by Julia Bewcyk
This kid’s bedroom is childlike but made for growth. “Bold wallpaper creates striking contrasts with pops of orange millwork, adding a touch of playfulness,” says Doneff.
Popsicle-orange millwork in the adjoining bathroom is an extension of that fun yet cohesive thread.
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