A look inside Yanic Simard's Miami Retreat
October 01, 2014
Picture Perfect Palette
Sometimes the best colour scheme is no colour at all! To capture the Miami spirit and keep this space feeling open and fresh, I used a white-on-white palette based around Benjamin Moore’s #OC-65 Chantilly Lace, and then added pops of other neutrals for variety.
Lively lodgings
Speaking of cool tones, it’s important to add some warmth into a white-on-white space if you don’t want it to feel too chilly. This is why this space primarily consists of warm woods and beige accents, over cooler grey tones, and comforting accents such as the sheepskin rug in the bedroom (and exposed storage for extra bedding).
Tasteful Texture
A minimal palette puts the focus on texture, so it’s key to have contrast between soft and hard, smooth and rough, and shiny and matte. The sleek glossy floors practically demanded a soft cowhide, but other furnishings use leather, ceramic and fabric upholstery (with mix and match pillows) for tons of tactile sensations.
Tried and True
Taking the texture even further is the combination of wood and metal — blended with white, they form a timeless trio. Balancing all three in roughly equal proportions helps the galley kitchen look coordinated despite combining so many materials — and each is picked up again throughout the space for a harmonious vibe.
Crystal Clear
Finally, to keep the space feeling open, I balanced some of the heavier items with light touches, such as the clear acrylic nesting tables and transparent ghost chairs. Beachy seaglass vases finished off the look for a perfect retreat in paradise!
About Yanic Simard
Yanic Simard is the principal designer of award-winning Toronto Interior Design Group, tidg.ca, and a guest expert on City’s Cityline.