Reinvention in Colour

Reinvention in Colour, Toronto

ASQUITH Architecture, Toronto / Julie Reinhart Design, Toronto Photography: Nanne Springer

An existing century old two-storey brick house full of dark stained wood, small rooms and small windows was in dire need of more light, improved views and one vital ingredient: colour. With a nod to Mexico City, the native city of one of the clients, colour drove much of the design and is used as a narrative throughout. The kitchen, with its bright backdrop of cabinets in teal with orange and yellow accents, serves as the anchor and main hub of the house. Elsewhere, rejuvenated spaces each have a burst of colour against a bright white backdrop: an existing traditional stair was maintained but painted in teal with an ombre treatment that fades at each riser; and the basement floor of the existing house was lowered to provide a high, light-filled basement that serves as a family room and playroom for the kids.