By Tara MacIntosh
Welcome to a most remarkable Niagara-on-the-Lake luxury home, steps from the waterfront. The new homeowners came to this location in search of a relaxing family retreat, ideal for hosting family and friends against the sensational Niagara backdrop.
Elizabeth Interiors were thrilled to design the interior of this striking property. Owner Elizabeth, along with Michelle Mazzilli as senior designer, approached this new project with great anticipation. The property itself had all the aspects of a dream country home, allowing the new homeowners to find rest and relaxation away from the hustle of their previous Ottawa home. Elizabeth remarks, “We wanted to realize the retreat feeling without making the design too country. Our goal was a relaxed, happy place, while maintaining a level of sophistication.”
Since the home was located just blocks away from the scenic waters of this picturesque region, Elizabeth Interiors presented design options reflective of a quieter lifestyle.
The passionate designers work with clients to ensure their taste and style are reflected in the design choices. Two or three ideas are brought forward, with the focus ultimately on the one that speaks to the owners. Elizabeth comments, “Out of the two or three designs presented, one will rise to the top and resonate with the homeowners – we welcome their participation in the process. Once we have a direction, we temper the look, as we are never completely tied to just one idea. We have room for flexibility when needed. When making design choices, we consider the client’s colour and style preferences and welcome their feedback along the way.”
Elizabeth Interiors will look at each room in the home as an opportunity to add personality and elevate the space for maximum comfort and enjoyment. The natural light exposure and position of the home is also significant to how the design comes to life.
In this particular home, the design team focused in part on two of the four bedrooms, each with a unique theme. The principal bedroom was an absolute delight to transform into a place of total relaxation. The main feature is the magnificent floral mural wallpaper treatment on the headboard wall, which draws the eye and delights the senses. The focal fireplace was surrounded by unique chairs, meant for curling up with a good book or simply gazing into the view of the backyard to enjoy the natural landscape. One of the guest bedrooms was decorated in soft and restful tones of blue and grey. Luxurious bedding dresses an upholstered poster bed, a treat for any guest who may stay. A hideaway desk within the closet adds charm and a comfortable spot to enjoy and make yourself at home.
Every space was designed to make guests feel welcome, for a family who likes to entertain. A long hallway, often an area left untouched, received love and attention to invite guests to come in, stop and take a pause. The living room has stunning built-ins that became part of the design. The fireplace was painted for definition, the grand piano was added for class, and a black and white palette creates dramatic contrast.
Each room reflects its own personality, and the dining room is no exception. The concept is gentle and pleasing to the eye. A shimmery iridescent wallpaper with bejewelled illusions meets you as you enter. This is a warm room that looks more expansive with the lustrous décor. The design team left no detail unturned, even adding place settings on the table.
The family room features a metal étagere to give it a unique feeling. The décor incorporates glass and metal to open the space up with a modern and warm touch. Elizabeth Interiors includes pieces on trend to modernize the home while maintaining function and style. A double coffee table was selected to update the space, and swivel chairs to allow guests to be part of the conversation or swivel to marvel at the back gardens.
Each room was carefully designed to deliver comfort and charisma. The inspiration was described as casually elegant, playing off the home’s exceptional tile flooring and feature frameworks like the built-in shelving, grand fireplaces, and incredible views.
Elizabeth comments, “This was a lovely home to begin with, so this project was special for us. Our team took the natural beauty of each space and elevated the design without being too formal. We wanted to create an inviting, friendly, and serene home, welcoming all who enter the front door.”
