Dvira Interiors principal designer Dvira Ovadia transformed a 1999 Yorkville condominium into a luxurious pied-a-terre inspired by classic Parisian apartments, blending elegance with functionality for a homeowner seeking a personal retreat in the city.
Design Concept and Vision
The homeowner envisioned the space as a sophisticated, timeless second home that felt distinctly her own while remaining highly functional for everyday living, Ovadia explained. The condominium, built in 1999, was largely untouched, offering a blank slate to completely reimagine the layout for modern luxury living.
Through thoughtful space planning, strategic lighting, custom millwork and carefully curated materials, the team transformed the compact footprint into a home that feels far larger than its square footage while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere, Ovadia said. Her team provided complete interior design services from concept development through final installation.
Kitchen and Living Area Reconfiguration
The kitchen was completely reimagined to create a stronger connection between the kitchen, dining and living areas. A large architectural archway was introduced to add character while maintaining an open-concept layout. Natural stone serves as the focal point, paired with brass fixtures and hardware for a classic Parisian-inspired feel. Fully-integrated appliances maintain a seamless aesthetic, while custom detailing, including double bullnose countertop edges, adds softness and craftsmanship.
In the primary ensuite, natural stone is carried across the floors, shower walls, vanity countertop and portions of the surrounding walls, creating a sense of continuity and understated luxury. The custom white oak vanity features subtle reeded detailing, while a soft mauve wallpaper introduces warmth and texture. The custom shower enclosure incorporates reeded glass panels framed in brass, adding another layer of detail while complementing the overall design palette, Ovadia noted.
Overcoming Structural Challenges
One of the biggest challenges was implementing the lighting plan within the building's existing concrete slab ceilings. Because the team could not recess fixtures into the original structure, they lowered the ceiling by just 2.5 inches and sourced ultra-slim pot lights to achieve the desired lighting design while preserving as much ceiling height as possible. The six-month project required careful planning and coordination between trades, suppliers and building management to stay on schedule without compromising the design vision, Ovadia reported.
Personal Touches and Timeless Appeal
The finished home feels timeless, elegant and deeply personal to its owner. From the moment you enter, the custom-stained white oak chevron flooring establishes a sense of warmth and craftsmanship that carries throughout the home. Features the team is most proud of include the extensive use of natural stone, custom millwork, thoughtful architectural details such as mouldings and wall panelling, and the seamless integration of appliances. Small details, like the marble-inlay door hardware, add another layer of character and individuality.
What we are most proud of, however, is how the home balances beauty and function, Ovadia said. Despite its compact footprint, every inch was carefully considered, resulting in a space that feels both luxurious and remarkably spacious.
Designer Tips for Renovations
Ovadia advises homeowners tackling a renovation to invest time in the planning stage and consider bringing an interior designer on board early. Having a clear vision from the outset helps guide every decision, from space planning and materials to furnishings and finishing details, ultimately saving time, reducing stress and helping to avoid costly changes during construction.
We also encourage homeowners to focus on how they want their home to feel, not just how they want it to look, Ovadia said. The most successful projects balance beauty and functionality, creating spaces that not only look beautiful but genuinely support the way people live every day. A designer can help bridge that gap, ensuring every decision contributes to a cohesive, well-considered home that feels both personal and timeless.
