Simply White Interiors: Making Spaces Come to Life

By Jill Tham

As a little girl, Bren Petrunick worked alongside her mother in her store in Niagara-on- the-Lake. “I learned the most important lessons in business from her: treat all your customers equally and with care and compassion,” says Petrunick, owner of Simply White Interiors. “Those values are still at the heart of what we do today.”

For over 15 years, Simply White Interiors has been focusing on their priority of delivering exceptional customer service. In the process, the company has made a name for itself in the industry as expertise in fabric design. “Whether it is precise pattern matching on an intricate print across pillows, chairs, or drapes, or creating a cohesive collection of prints and weaves to make a design pop,” says Petrunick. “The entire Simply White Interiors team relishes the opportunity to incorporate lots of pattern and colour through fabric as a means of delivering high-quality, innovative designs.”

“We believe that great design begins with a conversation, so naturally this is where our creative process begins. We value the time we spend with our clients, and we seek to make every interaction intentional, meaningful, and productive,” says Petrunick. “Every project is as unique as the people we have the pleasure of working with, so we will get to know our clients and what they envision for their home, and how we can deliver the design of their dreams.”

Although Simply White Interiors uses various tools to complete the job, the skill comes directly from the team of designers, seamstresses and project managers. “Our on-site workroom gives our design team unparalleled access to every stage of the production process and the ability to closely monitor your project from start to finish,” says Petrunick. “We take great pride in this cohesive and cooperative process that enables flawless execution of all our custom work.”

In Petrunick’s experience, design projects are inherently challenging, “That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced and trustworthy team at your side. Managing a full-scale design, from concept drawings to selections to installations, is a major undertaking involving countless decisions, moving parts and players,” says Petrunick. “Our role as project managers and designers is to make the process as seamless and successful as possible by forecasting challenges and delivering solutions,” says Petrunick, who also communicates to the client the ups and downs of a major renovation or new build. “We manage expectations, offer sound advice, and support through those challenging times.”

Petrunick is observing a shift in style from minimalist to maximalism. “We’re seeing bold, heavy patterns and an abundance of colours and layering, as well as eclectic collections for an aesthetic that is warm, inviting and full of character,” says Petrunick. “Shades of green are perennial favourites, but they are even more enviable in spring as they create a connection to nature and the lush colours of nature we love about spring and summer in Niagara,” says Petrunick, who states green is the current colour trend.

“We’re seeing an infusion of green in everything from fabric to wallpaper, and an overwhelming trend toward green cabinetry, especially in kitchens and mudrooms.”

Petrunick believes that design doesn’t have to cost a great deal of money. “A few carefully curated updates can make an extraordinary impact in a space. By adding colour to interior doors, trim or a few statement furniture pieces, you can make a dramatic statement on a limited budget,” says Petrunick, who also recommends simple and costeffective updates like new cabinet hardware, light fixtures, or artwork. “Consider décor items such as toss cushions, throws and area rugs,” says Petrunick.

“Simply White Interiors is also an active member of our local community, raising awareness and support for causes close to our heart,” says Petrunick, who is committed to giving back to the community. “Most recently, we ran a holiday appeal to raise funds for ‘No One Goes Hungry,’ a Niagara-based organization that delivers regular, nutritious meals to school children.”

Born and raised in Niagara, Petrunick can’t imagine running her business anywhere else. “I feel privileged to help the people of Niagara bring their design visions to life. I am also very proud to partner with so many talented crafters and suppliers in the Niagara Region,” says Petrunick, adding that she and her team are very active in many restoration projects in the region.

“Every time we’re invited into someone’s home, I remind myself what a privilege it is to receive that invitation and to have the opportunity to help them make that space their own,” says Petrunick. “We can deliver a level of customization that takes a space from ordinary to extraordinary.”

For all your design needs visit simplywhiteinteriors.com.