Toronto Duplex Celebrates Its 1980s Roots
Dvira Interiors blends historic character with contemporary details.
1Honoring 1980s Architecture
This duplex in Toronto's historic St. Lawrence Market area preserves distinctive late-'80s modernist features. Rather than flattening the curved walls and half-arched windows, Dvira Interiors amplified these elements to strengthen the building's original language. Designer Dvira Ovadia explains, "We discovered these curved walls and made them more prominent in our design." This approach adds historical depth to the space.
2Interiors with Global Influences
Drawing from the homeowners' travels, the design reflects the warmth of Arizona's desert, Bali's lush landscapes, and California's easygoing vibe. Natural materials like white oak, travertine, and green marble create a warm, inviting palette. The rich textures transform the space into a sanctuary with traces from around the world.
3Wallpaper as Architectural Element
Wallpapers transition from decorative to architectural in this project. Burlap-inspired coverings in the primary bedroom, cork textures in the office, and botanical patterns give each room unique character. Ovadia notes, "We took inspiration from the jungle, layering patterns and textures through wallpaper." This creates a sense of escapism throughout the home.
4Terracotta Cocoon on Third Floor
Terracotta limewash coats nearly every surface on the third floor. This monochromatic treatment envelops the family room in warmth that shifts beautifully with daylight. Combined with earthy neutrals and honey-toned wood, the design creates a retreat far from downtown Toronto's bustle. Sunlight filtering through windows continuously transforms the atmosphere.
5Blurring Indoor-Outdoor Boundaries
Balconies and patios extending from nearly every room soften the division between inside and out. The main level flows seamlessly between kitchen, dining, and living areas to outdoor spaces, while an open lounge visually connects upper floors. Ovadia explains, "We aimed to create a home equally suited for living, working, and entertaining." This fluidity adapts to daily routines.
6Turning Constraints into Features
Unmovable plumbing and HVAC systems required creative solutions. The kitchen needed complete redesign when original ventilation plans proved impossible. Unexpected plumbing conditions in the primary suite led to new bulkheads softened with graceful curves. These necessary changes added architectural details that appear intentional.
7Mediterranean, Tropical and Modern Fusion
The completed project blends Mediterranean warmth, tropical abundance, and late-modern architecture's sculptural language in personalized ways. Working with the building's original architecture, Dvira Interiors created a home rooted in the past yet undeniably contemporary. This approach gave the space a character uniquely suited to its owners.
8Contemporary Design in Dialogue with History
This renovation demonstrates the power of engaging with a building's history rather than erasing it. Emphasizing curves, using natural materials, and interpreting global influences gave the space both rootedness and currency. Dvira Interiors' approach offers a nuanced example of carrying architectural heritage into the future.