Designer Tanya Collins didn’t look to trends in the design world for inspiration when she started the decorating project for the CHEO Dream of a Lifetime lottery home—she looked out to the world at large. The bohemian theme, found throughout the 4,700 square-foot Minto home, is reminiscent of global travel. In fact, Tanya even used inspiration from a planned trip to Spain, which she had to cancel due to the pandemic.
Another outcome of COVID-19 restrictions is that the home is only available for tour online. The CHEO Foundation has had the option in place for the past six years to virtually walk through the home—and the interactive tour is the next best thing to physically being in the home. But Dan Champagne, vice-president of development and corporate relations for the CHEO Foundation, assures the 35,000 annual, in-person tour goers that as soon as it is permitted the doors will open.
“Having a virtual tour established has been an important part of our success during the pandemic,” reveals Dan, while noting the importance of touring in person. “It’s an enjoyable ritual for thousands of people who love to see the home each year. They are inspired by the decorating ideas and it has become a favourite outing for many seniors.”
Design inspiration is plentiful this year. The architectural features of the four-bedroom, three-storey home include transoms above the doors on the main floor, cathedral ceilings and decorative wood beams (from Atmosphère & Bois) in several rooms. The black window trim is a stand-out feature for both the interior and exterior. “The black interior windows act as a punctuation mark to the neutral décor,” states Tanya. But when asked to name a favourite detail or space she is reluctant to choose noting that, “Every room is full of interesting details.”
The neutral colour scheme contributes to a feeling of lightness, although the décor is strong and full of personality which is a feature of boho styling. “This house is my interpretation of bohemian chic; a free-spirited, personal decorating style with lots of whimsy and exotica,” explains Tanya. The talented designer also reveals, “It was important to have the decorating layered on an interior, architectural shell that is full of character and with a choice of finishes that are earthy.”
The earth tones are established quickly with closet and room doors painted in a deep forest green. Faux wood tile and brick all play into the theme. Tanya went so far as to create an old-world feeling in the back splash of the Laurysen kitchen by asking master tiler Jose Antonio Teves Pereira (who worked on all the tile in the home) to lay the tiles as wide apart as possible. She then had him apply the contrast grout so it would look like it was overflowing.
It is just one example of the dedication of the trades and suppliers whose efforts go into creating a home which is the stuff that dreams are made from. Furnishings from La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries complement the look with fabric selections that hold true to the style in welcoming spaces that call for visitors.
Mary Taggart
