Fresh Start
STORY LORI DAVIS | PHOTOS KERRI TORREY
Featured in The Best of Ontario - Toronto | York Region - Spring 2025
What started as a simple renovation quickly evolved into a homeowner’s worst nightmare. “I wanted to remodel my main and second floors, but once demolition started, we discovered all kinds of structural issues from previous sloppy work,” says homeowner James Vopni.
When his home was deemed unsafe, he had no choice but to start fresh, rebuilding from the ground up and adding a third storey. When James bought this century house near King and Bathurst in Toronto four years ago, he was thrilled to become a first-time homeowner. While visibly appealing, the house was hiding a litany of surprises. “It looked beautiful, but we quickly found out it was just lipstick on a pig,” he says. Constructed in 1890, the house was originally well-built. Subsequent renovations left behind a trail of structural problems. Crooked floors, problems with the frame and floor supports burned by a fire were just some of the many issues revealed during the total gut. “The charred joist was especially concerning because it was underneath the guest room where my parents stay.”
James entrusted Sam Faraji of Amista Homes Inc. to spearhead the renovation, with plans drawn up by Hatch Designs Inc. “Sam was a pleasure to work with. He understood the extent of the renovation,” he says. “He was picky and didn’t take any shortcuts.” Sam brought designer Karin Kolb of Karin Kolb Interiors on board to collaborate on the renovation. James then engaged Karin to complete the interior design. “Karin tied everything together very nicely. She was great and understood what I wanted. There is nothing here that doesn’t make sense.”
Karin has many years of experience in design. She started out in real estate and staged homes for her clients. Six years ago, she launched her own business. Her firm employs a unique 15-step project management system that streamlines the design process. From the initial consultation to the final presentation, there are no surprises. “We gather all the information and develop a presentation that includes samples and pricing,” says Karin.
She curated a tailored, masculine design for James with a dark, earthy palette and high performance fabrics and materials. “Things had to be James-proof!” For example, the porcelain counters in the kitchen are tough and can withstand stains and heat.
Although this Victorian home has only about 800 sq. ft. per floor, it brims with innovation. Guest rooms with en suites, a soundproof theatre room, acoustic panelling and an amazing backyard patio are just some of the features that make entertaining easy. “I love hosting family and friends and always have lots of company,” says James.
The heated entryway floor provides a comfortable transition into the main living space. A compact sitting room with a cosy sofa, brown leather chairs and a convenient bar is ideal for gathering and enjoying a nightcap.
The well-equipped kitchen is the focal point of the main floor, combining style and practicality. A generous island clad in gold-veined, white porcelain provides a stylish perch for guests, with bar stools neatly arranged on one side. A stainless steel sink inset in the island is equipped with a Zip Water ultra-modern HydroTap, which instantly dispenses filtered hot, chilled or sparkling water from a single faucet. Dual white pendant lights from West Elm illuminate the space. Tasco appliances, including a gas range, built-in fridge and dishwasher, make cooking and cleanup a breeze. Con-Nar Kitchens Inc. provided the elegant grey cabinetry, while Amati Canada handled the plumbing. The well-stocked coffee bar is James’s first stop of the day.
The kitchen flows seamlessly into the backyard suite through bi-fold sliding doors. It’s the ultimate party setup with a heated deck, barbecue, smoker, fireplace, ceiling heaters and a fire table. The rich cedar-clad ceiling and walls are punctuated by a skylight that fills the space with natural light.
Illuminated oak stairs with contrasting white risers lead to the second and third storeys. Acoustic panelling lines the ascending wall to dampen noise. An artful inset along the stair wall creates a whimsical showcase for James’s dinosaur display. The second floor caters to guests with two bedrooms and en suites, complete with gorgeous countertops from Marble and Marble Ltd.
The third storey is the crown jewel of this extraordinary renovation, featuring a sumptuous primary suite. “Karin did a beautiful job,” says James. The accent wall in the primary suite, papered in Slate Blue Nuvolette by Cole & Son Ltd., frames the bed, creating a bold focal point and dramatic contrast to the walls, painted Benjamin Moore Paper White. Open shelving flanks a TV and fireplace wall opposite the bed. A small balcony is the ideal place to enjoy morning coffee. A wet bar, fridge and cupboards provide convenient storage. James set up his home office in the spacious walk-in closet.
A tranquil escape, the en suite evokes the luxury of a high-end spa. Large windows from Classic Windows and Doors Inc. infuse the space with natural light. The curbless shower, lined with porcelain tile, is anchored by a marble mosaic floor that flows seamlessly throughout the entire bathroom. A floating toilet, soaker tub, double sinks and heated towel rack add comfort and convenience.
Although the renovation posed significant challenges, James reflects on the journey with a sense of accomplishment. “I have worked incredibly hard for everything I have,” he says. “I am so proud when I walk in the door and see my amazing home.” OH