1970s Home Transformed into Modern Family Gem Through Strategic Renovation
An untouched 1970s residence in North Etobicoke has been completely reimagined through a comprehensive renovation that extended its square footage while maintaining the original footprint. Interior designer Sarah Bilicki of Sarah Elizabeth Design & Interiors in Innisfil led the project, which transformed what was once a dated property into a warm, inviting family home.
Seeing Beyond the Original Features
The homeowners recognized the property's potential despite its original pink stone countertops, honey oak cabinetry, closed-off main floor, and extensive wood paneling in the basement. "They knew that, with time and thoughtful planning, it could become a warm and inviting family home – one that could comfortably accommodate children as well as visiting friends and family," says Bilicki.
The property's standout feature was its backyard, which extends nearly 150 feet and backs onto the Humber River, offering a rare sense of rural-like living just beyond the patio. "This property was truly a hidden gem and exactly what they had been searching for," Bilicki notes, dubbing the project 'Gem Place.'
Reimagined Main Floor Creates Open Living Space
The renovation focused on opening up the main floor to create a comfortable, spacious living and dining area connected to the kitchen. While the front entryway, staircase, living room, and dining room remained in their original locations, several walls were removed to create a more fluid space.
The kitchen stayed in place but was expanded by relocating the original powder room. Removing main floor walls and installing a continuous structural beam made way for an almost nine-foot-long island with comfortable seating for four. Reclaiming space above the existing underground cantina allowed the kitchen footprint to expand while creating room for a generous mudroom with semi-custom built-ins.
Key design elements include:
- Cabinetry from IKEA customized with bespoke door fronts and panels
- Kitchen base cabinets finished in natural white oak with a matte finish
- Upper perimeter cabinets painted in warm cream white
- Mudroom cabinetry painted muted sage green with custom cutouts for improved airflow
- Wide-plank engineered hardwood flooring in white oak finish throughout main floor
- Checkerboard porcelain tile floor in mudroom blending modern and traditional elements
Second-Floor Expansion Adds Luxury Suite
By extending the second floor over the existing garage, the project introduced valuable new square footage without expanding the home's footprint. This decision preserved the backyard and mature gardens while creating a new primary suite complete with an ensuite and walk-in closet.
The transformation turned what was once a four-bedroom home into a luxurious five-bedroom residence, offering ample space for out-of-town guests. "The primary ensuite was designed with a modern organic aesthetic," Bilicki explains.
The ensuite features include:
- Large-format porcelain slabs on shower walls extending to the ceiling
- Large cream-toned concrete-style porcelain tiles on the floor
- Ribbed wood-look porcelain tile on perimeter walls installed directionally for texture
- White oak vanity with white solid-surface countertop
- Black plumbing fixtures, cabinetry hardware, and wall sconces for contrast
- Sculptural pendant above freestanding tub adding softness
Cohesive Design Philosophy
Throughout the home, a "restrained palette" of natural materials creates cohesion and quiet warmth. Warm wood tones, soft neutrals, and tactile surfaces work together to prioritize clarity and livability over trends. "The design prioritizes clarity and livability over trend, allowing the architecture and spatial planning to take precedence," says Bilicki.
The homeowners purchased the home, located on a quiet cul-de-sac, in 2022. They welcomed their first child in August 2024 and stayed with family in a nearby neighborhood during the seven-month renovation. They moved back in just in time to celebrate their baby's first birthday.
"For the first time, they have a space where everyone can gather comfortably without being separated by walls," Bilicki notes. "We created a home that truly enhances everyday living and allows the family to live comfortably and authentically. Designing beautiful spaces is important but creating homes that bring people together is what I'm most proud of."
