Condos/Apartments
A Basic Condo Is Upgraded With Custom Furniture, Color And Kenyan Flavor
Published on October 23, 2024
While a coveted fireplace was definitely one draw to purchasing her downtown Toronto condo, Seema Shah was also looking for a change. “I wanted a fresh start,” says the advertising professional. Born in Kenya, Seema emigrated from the U.K. to Canada more than a decade ago and wanted her new place to reflect her cultural heritage. “My initial vision was French Art Deco, with lots of black, white and grey, but then I thought, how do I bring in my Kenyan influence?”
Struggling to define a style that reflected who she was, Seema (left) hired designer Jodie Rosen (right) to help. “I had so many ideas in my head,” she says. “If it was up to me, one room would look coastal, one Indian, one mid-century modern — it was very disjointed. Jodie brought cohesiveness.”
Custom pieces like the living room’s sectional were commissioned. “I grew up with handmade furniture, where you have control over material, color and texture,” says Seema. “Custom pieces don’t need to be expensive, and they make my home feel elevated.” The cheeky ocelot-print rug grounds the space.
What began as a small tweak with new furniture evolved into an 18-month-long renovation. The new layout required removing the wall dividing the kitchen and living spaces, and enlarging the kitchen. “Seema loves to entertain, and the peninsula between the kitchen and the living area provides enough space to seat everybody during a party,” says Jodie. “She wanted to be playful and have fun — and she wasn’t afraid of color.”
A statement pedestal table, velvet-covered chairs and jewel-like lighting glam up the dining area. Enveloping ripple-fold sheers bring softness.
A new marble fireplace surround in the living area is shot with bands of lavender and gold while powder puff pink chairs encircle the dining table.
Jodie carved out storage for Seema’s collection of luxe cosmetics in the guest bathroom with a secret cabinet; the panelled door is camouflaged by punchy palm-print wallpaper. To play up the jungle theme, Seema chose brass elephant, giraffe and zebra wall hooks that remind her of her homeland. “I was going for modern yet cosy, while still bringing the aesthetic of my heritage.”
The principal bedroom’s velvet headboard and warm metallic paper clip pendant bring subtle luxury.
A home office was incorporated into the guest bedroom, framed by an arch. The millwork houses Seema’s vintage book collection and conceals TV cables.
Alex Lukey
House & Home
Jodie Rosen