In a bold renovation, designer Sam Sacks has reimagined a semi-detached townhouse in Toronto, tackling the challenges of a dimly lit ground floor and a fragmented layout. The project, known as the Mathersfield Project, showcases Sacks’ commitment to enhancing existing architecture rather than demolishing it.
Reworking the Floor Plan
The townhouse originally featured a structural wall that separated the living and dining areas from a sunken kitchen and family room. Instead of tearing down walls, Sacks opted to align and enlarge the existing opening, introducing custom steel and glass bifolding doors. This strategic move allows the space to function as two distinct areas when needed, while also promoting a sense of openness.
Elevating Aesthetic and Functionality
The renovation addresses the home’s previously generic contractor-grade finishes. Sacks introduced high traditional baseboards and custom plaster crown molding in the main rooms, adding a touch of elegance. The kitchen and family room feature a low-profile beamed ceiling, creating a coherent flow throughout the ground level, which is anchored by Versailles-pattern oak floors.
Bold Choices in Design
One of Sacks’ most daring design decisions was in the powder room, where a hammered brass pedestal sink contrasts against deep Venetian plaster walls. This pairing highlights a deliberate texture that enhances the room’s character. On the second floor, the primary ensuite showcases a mix of white Volakas marble, Venetian plaster, and zellige tile, creating a dynamic interplay between cool stone and warm ceramic surfaces. The third-floor ensuite features a striking lime green marble finish.
Staircase Reimagined
The staircase connecting the floors underwent a complete overhaul, replacing boxy pickets with a sleek white oak handrail and powder-coated metal posts. This design choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also reinforces the architectural ambitions of the surrounding spaces, making the staircase a focal point of the home.
For more information on Sam Sacks and her design philosophy, visit her website. Photography for the project was captured by Lauren Miller.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
