# 1980s Toronto Penthouse Reborn Through Bold Design Choices Dvira Interiors transforms dated architecture into a layered sanctuary celebrating its original character. - **Source:** [Design MilkArchitecture, Architectural Designs, and House Designs | Design Milk](https://brifing.si/source/5d8362a6-0dbb-41cc-9b0e-4e8cac0c9318) - **Published:** 2026-08-03 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/bcc1b359-ca2d-424d-b7dd-5e9830510ec6 ## Honoring 1980s Architectural Legacy Dvira Interiors chose to amplify rather than conceal the penthouse's original curved walls and half-arched windows near Toronto's St. Lawrence Market. Principal designer Dvira Ovadia preserved the building's architectural language while updating it with honey-toned oak and travertine. This approach created a dialogue between late-modernist features and contemporary materials, giving the space both historical depth and modern appeal. ## Globally Inspired Material Palette Drawing from the homeowners' travels to Arizona, Bali and California, the design team crafted a warm, layered atmosphere. Green marble, cork wallpapers and botanical patterns establish a strong connection to nature. The third floor's terracotta limewash creates dynamic light plays throughout the day. Each material selection contributes distinct texture and depth to different zones of the residence. ## Wallpaper as Architectural Element Wallpapers serve as transformative tools rather than mere decoration. Burlap-inspired coverings in the bedroom, tactile cork in the office, and ceiling-to-floor botanical prints give each room unique character. Inspired by Austin's Proper Hotel, these treatments create immersive environments that offer visual escape while maintaining design cohesion. ## Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Integration Multiple balconies and terraces accessible from nearly every room blur boundaries with Toronto's urban landscape. The main level's kitchen, dining and living areas flow effortlessly to outdoor spaces, while upper-floor lounges maintain visual connectivity. Expansive windows filter sunlight that animates terracotta surfaces with ever-changing color variations. ## Transforming Constraints into Features Fixed condominium infrastructure required innovative solutions for HVAC and plumbing systems. The kitchen underwent complete redesign when original ventilation plans proved unworkable. Unexpected plumbing conditions in the primary bath led to bulkheads that designers softened with graceful curves. These necessary interventions became defining architectural elements. ## Versatile Living Concept Ovadia envisioned spaces equally suited for living, working and entertaining. Consistent application of color, pattern and texture layers throughout creates holistic harmony. From custom cabinetry to furnishings, every detail reflects the homeowners' personal style while maintaining design integrity across the three-story residence. ## Mediterranean-Tropical Fusion The completed design blends Mediterranean warmth, tropical abundance and late-modernist confidence. Terracotta tones, honeyed woods and green marbles provide organic character while preserved 1980s elements maintain historical continuity. This eclectic approach makes the penthouse feel both rooted and contemporary. ## Modern Interpretation of Architectural Heritage This project demonstrates how working with - rather than against - original architecture can yield extraordinary results. By reimagining 1980s features through contemporary materials and techniques, Dvira Interiors preserved Toronto's urban memory while enhancing livability. The approach sets a precedent for sustainable architectural practice in historic renovations. ## Sources covering this story - https://design-milk.com/dvira-interiors-toronto-penthouse-1980s-renovation/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._