The basic colour scheme, however, is black and cream. Jonathan says it took shape with the living room and kitchen curtains, heavy cotton hangings featuring a kitschy 1960s Scandinavian pattern of chalets, deer, hearts and kids playing in the snow. Sourced in Toronto, they were the designer’s biggest splurge. It’s a particular talent of Jonathan’s to play up that sense of the unexpected. The aluminum chairs in the kitchen and study, the 1930s Old Hollywood mercury glass lamps and the round black leather-framed mirror in the foyer all speak to Jonathan’s way of injecting modernity into the mix.
Building on the theme, Jonathan raided stores for affordable country pieces stained black. “Black grounds a house,” states Jonathan. “It gives objects visual weight and fools you into believing they may be older than they really are.” This rule also applies to the doors. “They’re feather-light hollow core doors that were white originally, but painted black.”
The floors are dark as well, to help unify the house. “I kept the stained birch floors throughout and avoided area rugs—I think long stretches of dark wood help create a warmer, more spacious and contemporary environment,” says Jonathan.
As the snow continues to fly and cabin fever hovers, indeed, who doesn’t crave warmth and space? So when daylight fades, we’ll dream of gathering by the fire and drinking hot chocolate. Yes, we’re wondering: When can we move in?
Jonathan Legate's decorating tips for beating the winter blues
{ one }
Make velvet toss cushions in yummy colours. They’ll feel as luxurious as they look and provide comfort from the cold.
{ two }
Paint a room Savannah Green by Benjamin Moore (2150-30).
It’s a great backdrop for antiques and helps you to think spring.
{ three }
Brighten your day by painting something small in Para’s Calm Seas (P1511-2). Transform an old box, a chair or a chest of drawers into a fresh little jewel.
{ four }
Use unexpected large fabric patterns on something small. Try Donghia Textiles’ Suzani jacquard in Pink Passion to punch up a footstool or wingback.
{ five }
Take a neutral wall and add stripes! “I like 10-inch stripes—big, bold, but not overpowering.” Hint: Pick up on a colour from an adjoining room for continuity.
Read more in Decorating and Feature Homes
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