Design Studio: KALU INTERIORS INC. Principal Designer, Aleem Kassam Lead Designer, Sima Kazemi General Contractor: Amini Construction Photography: Provoke Studios
Perched high above Vancouver’ s Coal Harbour, with panoramic views of the water and mountains, a dated 1980s condominium was ripe for a dramatic transformation. The space, originally a series of closed-off and compartmentalized rooms, no longer served a modern, open-concept lifestyle. To remedy this, the design team initiated a full-scale renovation, peeling the home back to its concrete shell to build a sophisticated and seamless living environment from the ground up.
The most critical factor in the redesign was optimizing the space to embrace its most compelling features: the aweinspiring vistas. Walls were meticulously removed to open up sightlines, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and carry the eye from one end of the home to the other. This extensive reconfiguration not only created an expansive living and entertaining area but also made room for new, highly functional spaces like a pantry and a dedicated laundry room.
The aesthetic inspiration for the project was rooted in its Pacific Northwest surroundings. The designers crafted a city oasis using a palette of soft, bright, and tactile textures. Light wood tones, specifically rift-cut white oak, form the foundation, complemented by warm greys and other earth tones. This serene, neutral backdrop is then contrasted with striking matte black and black onyx fixtures and bold, veined marble. The result is an interior that feels warm and dramatic without ever overshadowing the stunning external scenery.
A key element that makes this space so unique is the consistent use of millwork cladding and panels. This design choice, applied in the living room, dining area, and entrance, creates a sense of continuity and custom luxury. In some instances, these panels are accented with bronze mirrors, which not only create visual intrigue but also reflect the magnificent views, giving the illusion of even more space.