Decorating & Design
How A Vancouver Retailer Transformed His Rental Into A Serene Retreat
Published on October 30, 2017
Jonathon Litchfield’s 756-square-foot condo in Vancouver’s Gastown neighborhood is a short 25-minute walk from his lifestyle shop, Litchfield. The retailer is dedicated to creating a sanctuary-like space with spare decor, but don’t mistake his edited approach for minimal. “People use that word to describe my style, but I think minimalism is too stark,” he says. “I love texture and visual warmth. Look inside his downtown rental condo for a master class in understated layering.
The living room has a modern lodge vibe, showcasing carefully selected pieces that blend Danish and Japanese aesthetics. He spied the Børge Mogensen sofa with rosewood legs at a vintage store. “They didn’t know what they had!” he says of his score. An antique bison hide creates warmth when layered over a cozy jute rug. And Jonathon loves that the patchwork brick wall tells the story of the building: “It speaks to the wabi-sabi effect — of things not always being so perfect.”
Jonathon uses open shelving to hold extra plates, wineglasses and objects that inspire him. “Style is deeply personal,” he says. “It’s just what feels right.”
“I can’t be in a space that feels cluttered; it affects my mood and productivity,” Jonathon says. Dry goods are stored in the condo’s converted den (not shown), which he turned into a pantry and closet.
“Useful storage makes my life feel more at ease,” says Jonathon.
In his galley kitchen, a Martha Sturdy table doubles as a dining surface and desk.
The imperfection of linen bedding suits Jonathon’s aesthetic. A black-and-white photo of him with his late sister leans against the wall for an unexpected, casual effect. “My sister was such a sunny influence,” he says. “I like waking up to that energy.”
An old table base and a Martha Sturdy resin top creates a one-of-a-kind nightstand. Its height suits a low-slung bed.
Concrete floors and grey mosaic tiles give a spa-like feel to the bathroom, which features a tub and a separate walk-in shower. Jonathon dressed the room with simple linens and toiletries from his store, Litchfield.
Tracey Ayton
House & Home September 2017
Jonathan Litchfield