Guided by Tiffany Leigh Design, this Ontario home reflects both its private forest setting and the artistry of its owner, a talented ceramicist. Photographed by Patrick Biller, the project celebrates a thoughtful balance of earthy warmth and English-inspired sophistication, with curated display areas that seamlessly integrate the client’s artwork into daily life. From playful bedrooms to a refined kitchen and serene cottage-inspired bath, the home feels timeless, personal, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
From Tiffany Leigh Design… This project is a celebration of warmth, timeless style, and a deep connection to both the home’s surroundings and its inhabitants. From conception to completion, the design evolved with a clear vision: to create a home that feels enduring yet intimately personal. The exterior transformation immediately set the tone—once a bright, orangey hue, the home was darkened to let the surrounding forest embrace it, while copper eavestroughs and gas lanterns subtly nod to old-world charm. Every detail was carefully considered to complement the natural setting and create a sense of permanence.
The kitchen embodies an English-inspired approach, featuring a cooking nook and an island that reads more like a piece of furniture or work table, with all the functionality of a modern kitchen. A previous open staircase was reimagined into a range wall, opening new opportunities for layout and flow—a testament to our love for reconfiguring spaces to maximize both form and function.
The original river stone fireplace serves as the heart of the home, anchoring a grounded, earthy palette that flows throughout each room. Our client, a talented ceramicist, inspired a design that elevates functional art—carefully curated display areas showcase her work while integrating seamlessly into daily life, making each piece a living part of the home.
One of the more challenging areas was the primary bathroom. With a shower angled awkwardly under a roofline, it didn’t suit our tall client. By moving the shower and creating a cozy tub alcove reminiscent of an English cottage in the woods, we crafted a space that is both beautiful and practical, ensuring the daily-used shower is full height while adding a special, serene spot for relaxation.
The twin daughters’ bedroom was a highlight of the project, blending playfulness with longevity: wallpaper that will grow with them, a sky-blue ceiling, and a custom millwork unit complete with a ladder leading to a secret reading loft make the space both magical and practical.
From structural shifts to playful details, the home is a study in rich neutrals, thoughtful craftsmanship, and personal storytelling. Every element—inside and out—was designed to honour the family’s lifestyle, the client’s artistry, and the serene woodland setting, creating a home that is both warm and enduring.
Discover the talent behind the story… Interior Design: Tiffany Leigh Design · Photography: Patrick Biller · Styling: Me and Mo · Builder: Kingsgate Construction · Commissioned by: Soft Fire Ceramics
