Wabi Sabi inspired interior celebrates the beauty of the perfectly imperfect

When our clients, two eloquent writers, sought to redesign their home, they envisioned a space that reflected the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi—an aesthetic celebrating natural beauty, imperfection, and craftsmanship. Their clear brief called for a tactile, natural, and thoughtful design that avoided the overly polished or glam while honoring the craft of the maker. The result? A home that feels like a breath of fresh air—light, harmonious, and grounded in nature.

Interior Designer: Cori Halpern, ARIDO
Design Firm: Cori Halpern Interiors
Photographer: Valerie Wilcox

A hanging shelf on a narrow diding room wall meant to display coctail glasses and details with modern simple artwork hanging above
A simple white lamp sits on a small wooden table and a bamboo chair in a corner by the kitchen window. Colourful artwork hangs above.

Our design began with a focus on natural materials and a soft, earthy color palette inspired by a vase filled with seaside rocks. These muted tones grounded the space, creating a calming backdrop while allowing the texture and craftsmanship of each element to shine. Durable materials and understated finishes were prioritized, ensuring the home would age gracefully over time—true to the Wabi Sabi philosophy of embracing what is durable and enduring.

The layout was another critical component of the redesign. The existing furniture arrangement was impractical for both entertaining and daily living. A new configuration improved the flow of the living spaces, seamlessly blending comfort with functionality. Built-in shelving flanked a large window, providing much-needed storage while adding architectural interest. A floating quartz-topped shelf on the opposite wall offered a versatile surface for entertaining or displaying curated objects, reinforcing the balance of practicality and design.

A custom brass branch-motif light fixture hangs above the wooden oval dining room table with blue upholstered chairs around it. The built in shelf is visible in the back, next to the large window adorned with sea foam coloured curtains.

Lighting design was a key focus in transforming this home. The existing ceiling, which featured an awkward ridge, was leveled and painted a uniform color to create a seamless, cohesive look. This thoughtful adjustment eliminated visual choppiness, allowing the eye to move naturally through the space.

A custom branch-motif light fixture became the focal point of the living/dining room area, adding an organic, sculptural element that tied the design to nature. Complementing this centerpiece, thin brass fixtures and well-placed recessed lighting ensured the home felt bright and welcoming at all times of the day. This careful layering of light, both functional and decorative, contributed to the home’s fresh, airy feel.

The mostly original kitchen is modernized with a linear brass lighting that hangs above the new, modern large island. The bamboo stools bring a touch of nature in.

The kitchen posed unique challenges, as the clients wanted to avoid a full renovation. The existing cabinetry and appliances were retained, but the space was elevated with a new, larger island featuring a quartz countertop. A handmade-look backsplash complemented the earthy tones of the cabinets, while cane bar stools echoed the natural aesthetic. 

The finishing details brought warmth and personality to the home. Custom drapery with a soft, wave-like pattern unified the living spaces, adding height and movement without overwhelming the design. Performance-grade fabrics were selected for their durability, ensuring the furniture would withstand everyday use while maintaining its luxurious feel.

A new wooden unit was brought in under the new Frame TV surrounded with art work. A black coffee table is in the centre of the living room couch and two chairs, ll in neutral colour scheme except one chair upholstered in a blue wavy patterned fabric.
A detail of the black coffee table with a platter of dark purple figs and a small bouquet of flowers in a dark blue glass vase.

Personalization was also key. The clients’ cherished photographs from Scotland were transformed into bespoke artwork, adding a meaningful, personal touch to the space. Even existing pieces were thoughtfully repurposed, such as a beloved rug now relocated to the office, blending the old with the new.

This redesign is a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design. Rooted in the timeless principles of Wabi Sabi, the space celebrates natural beauty, craftsmanship, and the art of imperfection. By prioritizing light, flow, and texture, this home now feels like a serene retreat—designed to inspire, nurture, and endure.

ARIDO Award: Rhythm

Rhythm distinguishes itself as a premium rental community, offering striking contemporary design and exceptional modern amenities tailored for a youthful Gen Z and Millennial demographic with a dynamic lifestyle.

Category: LIVE TOGETHER

Interior Designer: Dominic De Freitas, ARIDO
Design Team: Nadine Burdak, ARIDO; Megan Hayward, Intern ARIDO

Design Firm: Figure3

Photographer: Gleb Gomberg

Gaming room in a monochromatic base with yellow and blue accents like the small coffee tables and seating against the wall. There are fun details like the blue LED neon gaming controller on the wall and a Pac Man like pattern on the ceiling.

The design solution was inspired by the feeling of stepping into a hip urban hotel; a thriving community
where each amenity space adds value and convenience and allows guests and residents to
thrive.

Established with a clear brand vision from the onset, the design looked to seamlessly translate the energy and movement inherent to the brand, into the physical space. The design translates the essence of Rhythm, and the brand values and identity into the physical space, placing emphasis on community, and providing ample opportunities for residents to socialize. 

Another area meant for socializing, games and fun. The wall on the left is inspired by Scrabble letters with small round tables against it, and o the right there is a long bar top with stools facing a floor to ceiling windows.
Another area meant for socializing, games and fun. The wall on the left is inspired by Scrabble letters with small round tables against it, and o the right there is a long bar top with stools facing a floor to ceiling window. On this side there is another play area with a large table

With a strong brand presence to guide our design team, an impressive 3-dimensional fin installation is placed along the ceiling in the lobby, drawing attention to the double height space. This is a direct representation of the wave pattern, a recognizable element of the Rhythm brand that provided inspiration throughout the visioning process.

Another gaming area with table soccer and a few arcade games against the wall that had a fun neon signage that says 'forever young'

Unlike conventional rental lobbies, Rhythm prioritizes resident connection, enriching the amenity-driven
lifestyle. Strategic design choices, from warm materials to intimate furniture arrangements, shape
behavior and evoke positive emotions.

A mid-tone monochromatic base creates a timeless foundation, full of warm wood and terrazzo, that feels
both comforting and familiar. Eye-catching details such as custom wall graphics, bright furniture, and
dynamic patterns are layered onto the neutral base; inspired by pop art, and retro 60’s design elements
that appeal to this youthful demographic.

Large yoga room in a calm colour scheme with a bunch of bean bags in the corner placed against a floor to ceiling mirrored wall

The design and amenity programming introduce a unique, socially driven lifestyle previously unparalleled in Ottawa.

ARIDO Award: The Parker

The Parker brings next level luxury and a carefully curated living experience to the rental scene. A shining example of Figure3’s unique design approach to purpose-built rentals, The Parker places emphasis on social connection and community, coupled with an extensive upscale amenity offering.

Interior Designer: Dominic De Freitas, ARIDO
Design Team: Megan Hayward, Intern ARIDO; Nadine Burdak, ARIDO

Design Firm: Figure3

Photographer: Scott Norsworthy and Adrian Amariucai

The reception desk and the textured glass wall visible on the right and a small lounge area on the left, tall ceilings. The entire space is designed in light, silvery blond and cream colour scheme

Infused with cool Nordic design elements, the lobby features a stunning frosted glass wall and silvery
blond woods that emphasize the dramatic verticality of the space. The textured glass behind the reception desk is back lit for a diffused, icy glow, while biophilic elements in the lobby bring in year-round greenery. These cool finishes flow into the 10 Dean café, creating a continuity of design that encourages guests to naturally flow into the hospitality space.

Infused with cool Nordic design elements, the lobby features a stunning frosted glass wall and silvery blond woods that emphasize the dramatic verticality of the space. The textured glass behind the reception desk is back lit for a diffused, icy glow

A unique hospitality partnership with hip urban café 10 Dean amplifies the engaged lobby experience, which features a seamless flow between public and private spaces. In contrast to how rental lobbies were laid out in the past (bare and transient), the approach here focused on connection and convenience; a perfect complement to this amenity driven lifestyle.

A view of the cafe with the bar on the left and seating booth on the right, the space is filled with cool finishes and biophilic touches

The space looks beautiful, but is ultimately packed with strategic elements, branded experiences, warm materials, and intimate furniture groupings that influence desired behavior and elicit emotional responses and positive outcomes for our clients and their tenants.

ARIDO Award: 10 Bay – McMaster Graduate Student Residence

Responding to ever growing demands for quality student housing, 10 Bay – McMaster Graduate Student Residence – fosters a thriving community in the heart of Hamilton’s evolving downtown core.

Category: LIVE TOGETHER

Interior Designers: Iva Radikova, ARIDO; Laura Le Lievre, ARIDO
Design Team: Nicole Wong, Intern ARIDO

Design Firm: Diamond Schmitt Architects
Co-Design Joint Venture: SRM Architects

Photographer: Lisa Logan

On the left is an image of the lobby area showing large windows and between them bright pink wall details, while above each window is a slatted wood details. On the right is a  photo a view of the building from the street.

The new residence reflects the university’s commitment to creating a vibrant campus that promotes academic excellence and the health and well-being of student life. Rising at the corner of Bay Street and King Street, the 30-storey building is home to over 644 graduate students and their families.

A study room in the library with wooden patterned ceiling panel detail

The design transforms student housing by recognizing the pivotal role of amenities for community engagement, and the impact of purposefully designed units. Multiple shared spaces are included and nurture a balance between learning and connection, while carefully detailed, light-filled, and inviting living spaces support a range of accommodations and accessibility needs.

A group of students playing music in the music room with a bright yellow accent wall, and music posters on the other wall, and interesting geometric light fixtures

ARIDO Award: Project Eglinton Loft

In the Eglinton Loft project, the building was home to offices and was converted in the early 2000’s giving a very spacious layout and 11 foot ceilings to play with.

Category: LIVE

Interior Designers: Luca Campacci, ARIDO; Vinh Le, ARIDO
Design Firm: Level Studio Inc.
Photographer: Vinh Le, ARIDO

A look toward the front door and entrance, featuring bright coloured runner that goes perfectly with bright pink artwork on the wall
Black kitchen with flush doors, no hardware and industrial elements

We completely renovated and reconfigured the kitchen appliance locations to create a more functional flow. The client had a bold vision for an all-black kitchen which we balanced with a white island. A large yellow sectional was the perfect choice for this project to balance against the kitchen. Black metal was chosen to work with the loft feel and was incorporated in the many legs of the furniture and accent pieces such as drink tables, side tables and chairs.

A custom window and door system was designed to bring as much natural light into the den as possible and incorporate the industrial aesthetic with custom designed shelves that house our clients extensive book collection.

ARIDO Award: UnCover / ReCover House

The project is a full renovation of an 1890 Victorian semi-detached single-family dwelling in the west end of Toronto, Canada.

Category: LIVE

Interior Designer: Nadia Cannataro, ARIDO
Design Firm: Large Medium Design Office

Photographer: doublespace photography

A view of the living room from the dining area, all is in predominantly white colours scheme with some warm wood details, brass light fixture and leather furniture pieces

The house was layered with several modifications over its one-hundred-and-thirty-year history and had most recently sustained damage due to a small fire. The interior was peeled away to the exterior load bearing masonry walls, and a reconfigured set of contemporary spaces tailored for a married couple with two active young boys was layered within this existing envelope.

Underside of the wood finished staircase in contrast to the surrounding white walls and a brick wall visible on one side under the stairs
White modern kitchen in all white cabinetry , long island and minimalistic black pendant lights above it

The interior demolition uncovered many hidden spaces and opportunities to reshape the volume and recover space within the building shell. The project intertwines historical artifacts, contemporary interpretations of the past, with contemporary living, construction, and materials.

Beautiful curved lines of crisp white walls and railings in contrast to the piece of brick wall above the stairs

ARIDO Award: Serenity Home

The concept for this modern, comfortable family home started with the clients’ desire for warmth, natural light and an uncluttered environment. The home is designed to age in place, contributing to make the generational journey a smooth transition.

Category: LIVE

Interior Designer: Jeffrey Douglas, ARIDO
Design Firm: Douglas Design Studio

Photographer: Mike Chajecki

Dining room in mid century modern style. The focal point in the room is a blue modern art work on the wall between two windows. Light fixture made of multiple glass ball pendants hangs above a wooden dining table with upholstered chairs

The project − a teardown and rebuild − opts for an open concept in the main floor living areas. As the original house had many subdivided rooms, too many of which felt like they were barely in use, the open concept successfully subverts expectations and ensures all available space is aesthetically and practically utilized. Its lived-in and relaxed feel encompasses both family living and fuss-free entertaining.

Modern duo tone kitchen with white upper cabinets and black on the bottom, with a drak marble patterned stone on the backsplash. There is a small round table in front of the small island
Hallway on the upper floor with glass railings, crisp white walls and wood detailing along the bulkhead above
Modern wooden staircase, glass railings with thin wooden framing

Great attention was given to details like texture, colour and upholstery, which delineate spaces while preserving seamless connections. We prioritized balance and proportion, creating a calm, serene environment. For example, millwork elements were carefully coordinated for providing full functionality without compromising on symmetry, contributing to a restful composition.

ARIDO Award: The Farm

To escape the hustle and bustle of their high-pressured city lives the clients selected a property in Prince Edward County in order to create a serene easy living environment to escape to.

Interior Designer: Connie Braemer, ARIDO
Design Firm: Connie Braemer Design Ltd.

Photographer: Erik Rotter

With views of the water and surrounded by trees, the design intent was to create as many connections to the natural surroundings as possible. Separate wings surrounding a central core great room were used to create a private yet connected feeling throughout the home.

Black kitchen island on the right with a linear black light above, and a fire place on the left, with the living room visible in between

Single level living was a prime focus when developing the layout with as many oversized windows as possible to bring the beauty of nature inside. Similar decisions were made when selecting the finishes for both the exterior and interior of the home. A vein of continuity running throughout with finishes that take inspiration from the warmth and texture of its surroundings while staying true to the client’s clean modern aesthetic.

Music room full of music instruments fit for a complete band. The room has pointed high ceilings and tall windows with views of the outdoors

ARIDO Award: Lakeside Living

Replacing the old family cottage, this new build was fashioned to reflect the couple’s changing needs. 

Category: LIVE

Interior Designers: Neil Jonsohn, ARIDO; Kelly Cray, ARIDO
Design Team: Shauna MacLeod, ARIDO

Design Firm: U31 Inc.

Photographer: Gillian Jackson

A view of the living and dining area from the hallway looking toward the lake and boathouse in the background

Set in the tranquility of Lake Couchiching, the low-slung architectural form with its intersecting roof pitches and expansive glazing, provided the perfect starting point to create something modern and warm with a playfulness well suited to its owners. 

A narrow hallway with walnut slatted partitions on one side and a view of the trees through a narrow floor to ceiling window at the end of the hallway
A view of the living from the dining area where a long wooden table with white upholstered chairs is placed under 3 unique organic shapedlight fixtures

Designed as a primary residence, as well as a get-away destination for family and friends, the restrained detailing in the form of walnut slatted partitions, wood clad ceilings and the expanses of a clean white envelope, all provide a nod to the architect’s vision and allowed us to animate the spaces with eclectic combinations of colours, textures and personal artifacts which speak to the client’s unpretentious passion for a life well lived.   

Main bathroom with a white vanity against a dark grey herringbone tile running on the floor and up the shower wall inside the glass shower partition.

ARIDO Award: Forest Estate Home

This luxury modernist home was once a mundane suburban bungalow.  The clients had a strong vision of a mid-century to contemporary motif. The spacious main entry area sets the tone for the entire home as high ceilings and rooflines give the space an open, airy and uncluttered feel.

Category: LIVE

Interior Designer: Jeffrey Douglas, ARIDO
Design Firm: Douglas Design Studio

Photographer: Mike Chajecki

Double height living room is surrounded by floor to ceiling modern windows and forest views, while modern dark seating furniture and large square coffee table adorn the space. The focal point is a colourful piece of art hanging on the wall above the sofa.

On this main level, the communal living spaces of living room, dining area and kitchen form the central element. The principal bedroom suite to one side and a separate wing housing the children’s and guest bedrooms to the other subtly ensure privacy without interrupting the flow of space, movement and light.

Kitchen on the main floor is mainly in wood finish cabinetry and a large island in the middle of the space. The island has a black base and modern black bar stools on one side, while clean linear light fixture hangs above it.

On the lower level, entertainment areas include a home theatre room, a guest bedroom, gym, and spa washroom with steam room, all centred around the outdoor pool, jacuzzi and cabana. An additional closed-off suite with its own kitchen and lounge area encompasses the needs of the clients’ multigenerational family.

Entertainment area on the lower level with comfortable sofa and a built in feature in the wall above the sofa, displaying record covers surrounded with thick wooden frame