Combine open and closed storage for options to display.

In this kitchen, birch cabinets get a modern finish with grey stain. Honed limestone floors and Carrara marble backsplash and counters add luxury and shine, while homeowner Betsy Aziz’s collection of Egyptian pottery layers in an artisanal organic feel.

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Unique pieces, such as an oversized windmill, introduce personality and wow factor.

A striking salvaged windmill complements the Douglas fir table and bistro-style chairs in this eat-in kitchen. “I saw the windmill, and two years later no one had bought it, so I decided to find a place for it,” says owner Betsy Aziz. Designer Connie Braemer had the builder move the kitchen shelves over 6 inches to allow space for it.

See more of this home in our photo gallery and Online TV segment.

The simple shapes of on-trend global-style pendants take on importance when hung en masse.

Punctured-tin light fixtures made in Cairo were rewired and hung asymmetrically over the dining table for a loose, romantic effect. Low-key chairs (covered in silk velvet) keep the sight lines open around the rosewood and hammered-nickel dining table. The buffet, an unexpected office credenza in silver lacquer, completes the vintage look. The walls were painted with a faint, distressed Saz-style motif.

See more of this home in our photo gallery and Online TV segment.

A unique wall treatment casts a soft glow on the room.

Limed-oak panelling and coffered ceilings set on a 45-degree angle put an of-the-moment spin on design elements inspired by English Regency homes. To offset the ceiling, the room’s furnishings are symmetrically arranged. The hand-scraped oak flooring in a warm coffee brown anchors the light neutrals.

See more of this home in our photo gallery and Online TV segment.

An acrylic waterfall table directs attention to the artwork.

This vignette in the living room provides a mix of textures and styles: wooden African sculptures and a hide-covered stool inject exotic flavour, while a contemporary hit comes from the acrylic console table.

Paint doors and window frames in a dark colour for a clean, dramatic look.

Designer Connie Braemer lit this family room with a modern Moooi pendant to contrast with the traditional coffered ceiling. The homeowner, Betsy Aziz, acquired the aged Kazak tribal rugs for a steal at an auction, then layered six of the rugs on the ground in the family room. The fireplace was covered in hammered tile in a stacked pattern — a more cost-efficient alternative to one large stone slab.

See more of this home in our photo gallery and Online TV segment.

Adding colourful accents to a room brings it to life.

Connie designed the four-poster bed in the principal bedroom. Pattern and colour are evident throughout: chartreuse chests, vibrant art, and the suzani covering the back of the sofa.

Separate a closet or dressing area with affordable curtains in lieu of doors.

Damask drapes create an elegant entrance into the principal bedroom's dressing room. The star pendant, a Connie trademark, adds a touch of whimsy.