DOWNTOWN ROW HOUSE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK BILLER
We love a renovation, a restoration and even a renaissance and this home had a little bit of all three. Situated in downtown Toronto’s chic Fashion District, the four-bedroom rowhouse belonging to fashion expert and celebrity stylist Erica Wark and her entrepreneur husband Corey Laurysen is as well located as it gets… but it was in dire need of a serious (and seriously stylish) makeover.
Erica and Corey’s vision was clear from the very beginning: they wanted a deeply personal home that would be as warm and charming as they are. A previous renovation had stripped away some of the period elements, so we started by restoring a few interior details to their former glory. Next, we added an antique fireplace mantel, a few old doors and loads of plaster crown moulding to bring back the character of this circa 1880s gem. A few bold gestures in the form of antique lighting and vintage modern furniture added an eclectic edge.
The kitchen design was a true collaboration (Corey’s family business is kitchens) resulting in an efficient semi-open plan that blends brilliantly with the connecting main-floor rooms. The principal bedroom had been opened up in the previous renovation so there was plenty of room for closet space – naturally, Erica has a legendary collection of fabulous fashion – a king bed and a few furniture finds to make it all feel personal and familiar.
The joy that Erica and Corey bring to every day in their new home is stitched right into the fabrics and textures they chose. To help create a young couple’s first home; a place to build a life and a family together, is a very special assignment… especially when you’re designing it for such a special couple. “Ball gowns and burgers” isn’t just the theme of our favourite photo of these two, it’s their whole approach to life.
Creative Community: Design by Tommy Smythe, Lindsay Mens. Design Associates Kelsey Eurig, Ayanna Augenstine
