In a modern Etobicoke house, the homeowners sought a beautiful yet unpretentious space. Principal designer Goli Basiri of Harmen Design, along with partner Kia Kazemian, recalls that the clients wanted a home that was "contemporary in styling but also warm and homey in its bones." The result is a relaxed, elegant interior that does not shout for attention.
Exterior and Foyer Set the Tone
The exterior features a shallow pitched roof reminiscent of a classic mid-fifties ranch, updated with generous glazing and a clean material palette. Inside, the foyer welcomes with creamy white walls, warm white oak panelling, and a charcoal fluted-oak front door bathed in sunlight. The staircase, curving up through three landings, uses simple open risers clad in white oak and glass guards for a solid yet transparent feel. Natural light floods the space from a skylight 24 feet above, a triple bank of windows facing an interior courtyard, and a large picture window framing a mature maple tree.
Minimalist Millwork and Playful Powder Room
Instead of standard millwork, walls and doorways feature grooved reveals and slim recessed wooden casings, with pocket doors reducing hardware. Even the staircase hides its riser pins inside white oak caps. The powder room offers a playful contrast with seamless terrazzo walls, a handcrafted concrete sink, and meticulously arranged pebbles radiating from the centre. Basiri notes, "Powder rooms are where a lot of designers like to show off a bit."
Living Room and Kitchen: Comfort and Durability
In the living room, a giant slab of Invisible Grey marble turns the TV into framed art atop fluted white oak. The room features curvaceous Montauk sofas, two blob-shaped centre tables without sharp corners, and a colourful deep-pile rug. The kitchen uses pure white quartz counters and backsplash for durability and clean aesthetics. Cognac leather stools at the island were chosen for both looks and practicality, as they withstand wriggling toddlers and clean easily with a cloth, according to Basiri.
Primary Suite: Treehouse Feel
The primary suite enjoys generous windows that give a treehouse feeling, with the slant of the eaves adding cottagey cosiness. Throughout the home, the refined material palette and thoughtful details create a serene, family-friendly environment that balances contemporary style with warmth.
