Cookie-cutter. Builder-boring. It’s not uncommon to associate condominiums and townhomes with these unflattering design phrases. But it’s also apparent that there are many exceptions to the “plain old box” rule. Case in point: Catherine and Nick Chan’s modern townhouse, which they purchased pre-construction in Toronto’s trendy King West area three years ago, showcases a distinctive, inviting look overflowing with design-savvy touches and personal style.

The house is a reflection of Catherine’s character, say Ryan Martin and Amy Kent of Croma Design, the firm that helped tweak her decisions throughout this project and where Catherine worked as a project manager a few years ago. “She likes a modern, clean, spare aesthetic, but she has a lot of texture in her personality,” says Ryan.

Living room display
The living room’s display cabinet, which homeowner Catherine Chan purchased from Craigslist, houses items received from friends or picked up on travels. “It’s a glass cabinet, so we can still see things, but they don’t collect as much dust!” says Catherine. The quirky Art-imals rabbit sculpture adds a hit of red decor.
Dining nook
The dining nook is defined by iconic pieces like the Saarinen dining table and Guillon cord chairs  (Catherine found the table and the two dining chairs on Craigslist). The hanging candelabra ties in with the wooden elements in the space and creates a moody atmosphere when the candles are lit.
Living room
Artwork in the living room provides interest and a bit of fresh contrast against the grasscloth wallpaper, which is repeated in the dining area and romantic bedroom to bring continuity to the space. “The Deborah Moss pagoda prints offer a nice pop of white, and the gold ties in with the room’s warm tones,” says designer Amy Kent.
Kitchen design
Eschewing the townhouse’s builder-basic kitchen, the homeowners gave the expansive space a rich, homey aesthetic with a mix of recessed-panel elm and slab lacquered kitchen cabinetry, beige quartz countertops and a luxurious travertine backsplash.
Kitchen eat-in area
The kitchen’s eating area is defined by a massive oak Carl Hansen table surrounded by classic Wishbone chairs. An oversized drumshade light fixture adds drama and anchors the space. “We hung it a bit higher than usual because we didn’t want it competing with the pendant lights over the island,” says Catherine.
Stove
The kitchen’s expansive beautiful backsplash offers a rich, dramatic focal point. “And it was key in pulling together all the pieces in the kitchen – the warms and the cools,” says Amy. The Le Creuset braiser, given to the couple at their housewarming party, inspired the use of red decor throughout the house.
Stylish tableau
A simple tableau of books, perfumes and a delicate flower arrangement is all that’s needed to complete the dresser.
Dresser design
In the bedroom, a clean-lined walnut dresser and dramatic artwork by Canadian artist Laura Wood create a simple vignette. “The art makes the room look more glamorous,” says Catherine. “It’s kind of romantic, and it’s the first thing we see in the morning and the last thing we see when we go to bed.”
Master bedroom
The bedroom’s grey, beige and white palette offers a tranquil ambience, while the layering of textural items, such as the bedding, Christien Meindertsma poufs, fabric-covered bed frame and grasscloth wallpaper, adds interest.