Classic & Timeless
STORY JANET WHITE BARDWELL
PHOTOGRAPHY JASON HARTOG
When Waterloo homeowners decided to embark on an extensive main floor reno of their two-storey home in the city’s picturesque Beechwood West District, they knew it was crucial to assemble a stellar team to make their dream a reality.
Their first call was to Suzanne Tait, owner of Suzanne Tait Design. Suzanne – a 20-plus year veteran in residential design – and her team have worked on two homes with the homeowners over the last 10 years. During this time Suzanne has earned their respect for her design skills and professionalism, and they consider her a friend. Since the family moved to the home in 2015, Suzanne has helped them renovate the upper level and family room. The homeowners say of their relationship: “Suzanne knows our likes and dislikes. Hiring a design consultant who is passionate about what they do and is an expert in their field is a tremendous benefit.”
The main floor reno, however, was the couple’s most ambitious project and required an extensive team working cohesively together to bring their dream reno to life.
With the goal of making better use of the square footage and opening up the kitchen and family room area, the plan required structural changes. Two supporting walls would be moved, the layout reconfigured to bring the dining room from the back to the front, and a butler’s pantry placed neatly off the kitchen.
Adding to the challenge, the homeowners are working professionals with two busy children and an enthusiastic furry family member named Poppy. These realities demanded that the reno be functional, comfortable and durable as well.
The couple met with a few general contractors and made a decision to commission Murray and Pat Horst at Revive-a-House to oversee the renovation. Next, Homestead Woodworks, Rich-Craft Interiors, Stonex Granite and Quartz, and Watermarks Kitchen & Bath Boutique were brought on board, and the core dream team was complete. The couple was grateful to have Suzanne keeping watch. “She worked so well with everyone. Having her at all the meetings ensured that no design aspect was overlooked.”
To keep their sanity while the team worked its magic, the homeowners moved into a nearby Airbnb for nine weeks – a move they highly recommend.
The result was worth the wait. The entrance now opens to a space filled with light. Blonde, matte, wide-plank oak flooring a warm foundation that will withstand the wear and tear of this busy family. “Blonde oaks are also particularly forgiving with pets,” advises Suzanne.
The dining room to the right of the front entrance is framed with wall-to-wall built-ins by Homestead Woodworks, and original art from Paula White Diamond Art Gallery + Design Studio adds a contemporary edge. Sconces and a statement chandelier from Living Lighting complement the room’s comfortable formality.
To the left of the entrance is a spacetransformed from a non-descript garage entry into a charming mudroom and laundry area. Cubbies for each family member, washer/dryer from TA Appliances ensconced by built-ins from Homestead Woodworks, and a clothes dryer wall inset fulfill Suzanne’s goal of making the home liveable and functional.
Toward the back of the house, the open hallway flows seamlessly into a stunning kitchen and family room area. Generous white walls offer a gallery-style backdrop for more unique fine art from Paula White Diamond Art Gallery + Design Studio that add colour to the space.
Showcased centre stage, a striking quartz island and comfy seating from Casalife Furniture lend themselves as perfectly to family dinners and homework as to a long- overdue catch-up with friends. A nearby banquette awaits a morning repose with a warm beverage.
The island and countertops from Stonex Granite and Quartz are accented by pristine white cabinetry and brushed chrome fixtures by Homestead Woodworks. A corner ceramic farmhouse-style sink and plumbing by Watermarks Kitchen & Bath Boutique, and a variation of the classic subway tile backsplash, exude durable, timeless chic.
The butler’s pantry area (Suzanne’s favourite part of the reno) features antique leathered granite countertops and walk-in pantry with a barn-style sliding door. “Having this close by for extra storage opened up space in the kitchen to add feature pieces such as a custom hood fan, wall sconces and a built-in coffee maker,” she says.
The second level stars Suzanne’s earlier work with the family. The main bath calls upon a timeless New York retro style with double vanity and walk-in shower for the kids to have a space to call their own.
Suzanne describes the first room she designed for the couple’s daughter as a “sweet little girl’s room.” Now a teenager, she shared her ideas with Suzanne to create a bedroom with touches of lush texture and pretty details.
The master suite is comfortable yet traditional, while the en suite opts for Old Hollywood appeal, complete with a freestanding tub, shimmery chandelier and a curbless shower and hidden drain. The marble countertop from Natural Stone City, mirror-mounted sconces and polished nickel fixtures add warmth to this private retreat.
The family moved back in shortly before the COVID-19 lockdown, as the house quickly became home, office and school – and they couldn’t be happier with both their new surroundings and the team that made it happen. “Our contractors listened to
our vision. Revive a House and Homestead Woodworks were fantastic to deal with. Suzanne and her team took away a lot of stress and helped make the rooms comfortable and functional yet classic and timeless.”
