Warmth Meets Whimsy

STORY DENISE WILLSON | PHOTOGRAPHY INTERIORS BY YOUNG GLASS

As seen in the Golden Horseshoe Summer 2026 Issue.

A complete renovation of this Grimsby bungalow has created an interior aesthetic that is deeply personal, revealing the homeowners’ personalities, experiences and the way they want to live.

Prior to renovations, this Grimsby bungalow reflected a typical early 2000s subdivision build. Today, the couple’s travels and interests are thoughtfully woven into the new design and build. “Every square inch flows with a cohesive look. It feels as though the house was always meant to be this way, as if the homeowners’ rhythm and warmth have always been here,” says general contractor Brad Robinson, owner of BMR Group Custom Homes.

“The arched doorways, herringbone floors and black windows were top of the wish list for our client from the start,” says Laurie Sprague, owner and principal designer of Sprague Interiors. Laurie and Brad have successfully collaborated on many large projects, giving these homeowners confidence in a shared vision and process. “The homeowners loved the bones of the house but wanted it to feel more aligned with who they are,” says Laurie. “They conveyed to us their desire for an organic modern aesthetic with a soft, relaxed feel and touch of whimsy.”

As the home is for their next chapter of life, it was important that the space support both quiet moments and gatherings with family and friends. From the front entry, sight-lines extend into the open kitchen and great room, where large black-framed windows with decorative grilles draw in natural light and frame views of the pool, gardens and the escarpment beyond. “One of our favourite features is the natural light and the connection to the outdoors,” note the homeowners. New windows were supplied and installed by Marvin Windows and Doors.

While the exterior remained unchanged, the transformation inside was significant. “The entire main floor was taken back to the studs,” says Brad. The Sprague Interiors team worked with the client to reimagine the floor plan with significant changes in room programming – which involved relocating the laundry room to the opposite side of the house and adding a walk-in pantry off the kitchen.

With nearly two decades of experience building and renovating homes across Hamilton, Halton and Niagara, Brad’s team worked closely with Sprague Interiors to bring the design vision to life. “Custom details such as rounded plaster features and enlarged arched openings were introduced to add softness and balance against the clean lines of the cabinetry, flooring and windows,” Brad explains. “These details are complex to execute, but they create a beautiful visual impact.”

Strategic structural decisions allowed the team to open the space while maintaining necessary supports, resulting in a layout that feels airy and connected. Rather than relying on walls or doors, defined zones were created through furnishings and layered details. Every inch was planned to ensure that proper clearances were met with open-concept living in mind. “We designed a custom sofa to help anchor the living area and subtly separate it from the kitchen,” adds Laurie. “The new layout allows the homeowners to relax, cook and gather while still feeling connected.”

White oak herringbone floors from Grandeur Flooring add warmth and movement throughout, while textured porcelain tiles from Aristocrat Floors and natural stone countertops contribute to the layered material palette. “The homeowners embraced the design process,” says Laurie. “They were open to incorporating elements that feel a little unexpected, which adds personality without overwhelming the space.”

A sculptural Pinch light above the dining table introduces a touch of softness, while patterned Farrow & Ball wallpaper adds whimsy and a subtle nod to British influence. A palette of soft, earthy tones is carried throughout, complemented by mixed metals and light fixtures from iLite, that combine to create a collected, lived in feel. Creamy white walls with low-contrast trim allow the craftsmanship of Interior Works Inc. custom cabinetry to shine.

The limewash wall texture and hand-formed plaster mantel by Da Vinci Custom Fireplaces add to the cosiness. “The plaster work has a quality that feels reminiscent of traditional European craftsmanship,” says Brad.

Appliances from Goemans are seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry, allowing the kitchen to read as a calm, cohesive space. The large island serves as a natural gathering point, while the adjacent scullery keeps daily function tucked away. “The kitchen and living area have become the heart of our home,” say the homeowners. “With the scullery, everything stays organized, so the main space always feels clean and welcoming.” A custom banquette and additional furnishings were designed with performance fabrics, balancing comfort with practicality, while the herringbone floors were selected in part to gracefully conceal wear from the couple’s two adorable dogs.

Both bathrooms were reimagined as spa-like retreats. In the primary en suite, a green marble arched entry frames the walk-in shower, creating a moment that feels both elevated and serene. Taj Mahal quartzite in the kitchen and Le Pell Azul marble in the bathrooms were sourced from Galleria of Stone and installed by Rockstella Stonery. Fixtures were supplied by Robinson Lighting & Bath, and Brenlo supplied the interior doors and millwork.

The homeowners are delighted with the result. “We didn’t know what to expect because we had never worked with a designer before,” they share. “This was a significant nine-month project, and with everything else happening in our lives, we knew we needed the right team to guide us.” Having followed Brad and Laurie’s work for years, they felt confident in their decision.

“Renovations can be a big undertaking,” they add. “There are moments that are exciting and others that require patience. Open communication and trust in the process made all the difference for us.”

A strong relationship between homeowner, builder and designer is essential in a project of this scale. When that collaboration is in place, the result is more than a renovation. It is a home that feels cohesive, personal and truly reflective of the people who live there. OH