A contemporary living room in a heritage home features a large gray sectional sofa, round ottoman, and abstract wall art. A window with curtains brightens the space, while a dark console table with books and a vase adds contrast. Light wooden flooring ties this updated interior together.

Updating a Heritage Home’s Interior

ByKerr Design Build

For this client with a young family, we were engaged initially to update the exterior of their W 12 Av. heritage home. But the extensive nature of the modifications first envisaged would have been a challenge to get approved by the city’s Heritage Commission so only a minor update to the home’s siding was done.

But this gave an opportunity for numerous updates to be done to the interior of the home which were needed. While we normally design and do major interior renovations such as whole updates to kitchens, bathrooms, and large additions, we were just doing the finishing touches here.

For instance, the powder room didn’t have a sink in it. We added that in then made the room look more of a heritage style. We did this by painting the panelling dark, adding a beautiful wallpaper that was a historical print by William Morris, incorporating new lighting and adding a beautiful brass faucet.

The front hallway already had beautiful panelling but needed an updated light fixture. We added that along with a beautiful arched doorway to the kitchen. It is spectacular.

The upstairs bathroom was clean but rather plain so we wanted to add more details. We took down the large mirror and replaced it with two smaller furniture-style mirrors with new sconces over them. Subway tile wainscotting was added around the room as it is in keeping with the period of the house. To accentuate the tub, we built a special archway and trimmed the walls with shiplap panelling. Lighting and blinds finished it off. 

In the basement, we upgraded their mudroom which was important for their three young children and all their belongings. We did two large, beautiful millwork pieces with specialized spacing for all of their shoes, coats and bags.  We added shiplap panelling around the room and brick-look porcelain tile flooring in a herringbone pattern which is durable and practical.

  • The bright hallway of this heritage home features light wood flooring and white walls, with an arched entryway adding classic charm. A woven basket sits by the staircase, while a dark front door with glass panels adds contrast. A round light fixture and a rug complete the updated interior look.
  • A white staircase with light wood steps leads up to a landing in this beautifully updated interior. At the top, a small white cabinet with gold pulls holds a vase of yellow flowers and a framed quote: Work Hard & Be Nice to People.
  • This beautifully updated bathroom in a heritage home features floral wallpaper and dark wainscoting. A vintage-style white sink with gold-toned legs complements the white toilet. A stained glass window above the sink and a small framed picture enhance this elegant interior.
  • A close-up of a white porcelain sink with brass faucets against a dark paneled wall showcases the elegance of Heritage Home Interior design. The sleek sink contrasts beautifully with vintage-style taps, while the decorative wallpaper edge adds a touch of timeless charm.
  • In this heritage home, the minimalist bathroom features a white freestanding bathtub under a window. A black faucet complements the modern pendant light above. The interior update includes a small caddy with plants, set against gray tiled flooring, enhancing the space’s tranquil vibe.
  • Updating the interior of this modern bathroom seamlessly blends into a heritage home, featuring white cabinets and a sleek black faucet. Two oval mirrors pair with a small potted plant above the countertop, while white subway tiles and a wall-mounted light fixture complete the elegant space.
  • Modern bathroom with a double sink vanity featuring black faucets and round mirrors. A potted fern sits between the sinks, and a white tiled backsplash complements the sleek design. Ideal for heritage home enthusiasts interested in subtle yet stylish interior updating.
  • This interior entryway blends modern touches with heritage home charm, featuring black built-in cabinets with open shelves for shoes. A wooden bench complements the design, while high-heeled sandals rest on the light herringbone-patterned floor under a round ceiling light.
  • A cozy living room in a heritage home features a large gray sectional sofa and a round ottoman. White curtains frame the window, while black-and-white wall art adorns the walls. Natural light brightens the interior, with a small plant and tray on the ottoman enhancing the charm.
  • A contemporary living room in a heritage home features a large gray sectional sofa, round ottoman, and abstract wall art. A window with curtains brightens the space, while a dark console table with books and a vase adds contrast. Light wooden flooring ties this updated interior together.

We also added light fixtures and new window and door trim throughout the house. We decked out their rec-room by selecting new furniture, rugs, a custom sofa, all the pillows, and all the artwork which was custom and custom framed.

It finished the house up to a new level of detail. Absolutely stunning.

We can do the same for your home. To arrange a consultation, call us at 604-263-0343 or use our online form.