MONTREAL – Imagine studio design by Mélodie Violet completely redesigned the gutted interior of a house devoid of alterations for approximately 20 years for a couple purchasing their first home.

“The clients had a pretty good idea of the basic layout they wanted, and I was able to infuse their vision with some creative details,” Violet said. “The elements that I proposed create a curvier and elegant interior, with a very bright and cheerful atmosphere.”

Imagine’s approach began with a complete redesign of the ground floor layout, with one exception, the placement and infrastructure of a staircase ascending to the second level. While its positioning was retained, the staircase itself was given a very detailed facelift that sets the tone for transitions throughout the home. Curved maple landing steps begin the ascent on a staircase bordered by curved, bright white walls, contrasting black metal strip railing, and a back wall of glass providing transparency to the upper level.

The staircase sets the theme for the entire home, marked by transitions and connectivity derived from a continuity of many of those same design elements. Repetition of flowing lines, curves, and applications of white, black, and brass detailing help create smooth transitions between rooms that were previously compartmentalized. That sense of connectivity is further enhanced with a broad expansion of previously small windows, and the addition of patio doors that draw in abundant natural light.

To the left of the staircase, a formal living room transitions into a more private family TV room. To the right, the is the kitchen created by Galleria, a custom cabinetmaker based in Saint Leonard, Quebec. The kitchen features white walls, light-colored hardwood floors, quartz countertop and backsplash, brass shelving and faucets, and an integrated walk-in pantry. Black chairs and a black table base in the adjacent breakfast nook provide a stark contrast to the bright white kitchen.

Round, curvy, Scandinavian-style lighting selections also play a critical role in the redesign. “The goal was to enhance the settings, without being overwhelming,” Violet said. “For instance, we chose simple elegant white glass globes, installed at different heights, to ‘accompany’ the staircase, rather than to outshine it.”

The upper level of house Rio is comprised of a master bedroom and bathroom, three additional bedrooms with two additional bathrooms, an office, and a laundry room. The master bathroom was a point of focus, and Imagine designed a layout that featuring a double shower, a large freestanding bathtub, a double vanity with multiple storage components, and a retro lighting mirror, all highlighted in a seamless continuation of white, beige, and brass.