I love this contemporary home designed by Gabriela Gargano of Grisoro Designs. It’s classic and timeless with unique furnishings and art that really make the rooms come to life and add a chic touch. Photos: Kirsten Francis

Back in 2018 I was sent a copy of designer Amanda Lindroth‘s book Island Hopping and was mesmerized by her tropical, breezy, timeless style. I stumbled up on her website again the other day and continue to be smitten. With winter coming and the thought of missing out on yet another trip to Mexico, I can use all the tropical inspiration I can get.

This apartment in Taiwan is so bright and playful – perfect for a family! With a three-sided square, “ㄇ” shape layout, the general space of the home is split into two by the central iron staircase. We reconfigured the storage cabinets and room to create an extended vertical flush plane, using hidden door panels for a crisp and neater look. The foyer, extending all the way into the kitchen, is laid with kiln-fired bricks matching the shade of the hidden uniform door panels along the side, adding a touch of playfulness to the foyer’s narrow and long layout. The lounge area and adjacent balcony at the other end are a haven for privacy and relaxation…The open racks are ideal for the missus to keep her large collection of books on display. A gourmet paradise and a wellspring of inspiration, the kitchen island is the center stage where the missus channels her culinary passion and crafts her writing, its open-space design making it easy to check on the child. On the upper floor, fixed partitions were done away with in favor of flexible sliding doors between the kid’s bedroom and game room. Ample sunlight adds warmth to the minimalist Scandinavian palette and brings passion to the rustic Japanese esthetic. By HAO Design.

I’m thankful that restaurants are open again here in Ottawa (except if you’re a family/group of 5, stay home as only tables of 4 allowed) despite our COVID numbers being high (78 new cases yesterday and 3 deaths). I spotted this restaurant called Apollonia in the portfolio of NYC based Space Exploration that opened last year in Williamsburg though google tells me it’s now permanently closed. Not sure if that was due the the pandemic but it’s so heartbreaking to see the effects of it on small businesses. Anyhoo, it was a beauty while it was around. Simple and classic, and I love the repetition of circles and arches.

This gut renovated pre-war apartment in the West Village is a gem. Despite having high ceilings I love that it didn’t end up as an industrial loft as I think most people would be tempted to. Thumbs up to Gabriela Gargano of Grisoro Designs for keeping this timeless, clean lined, neutral and so easy on the eye. (Photos: Shade Degges)