When space is a premium, smart design decisions must come to the forefront, with function becoming one of the driving forces behind every decision.
Jill James has managed to strike the balance between space and design beautifully, transforming a once underwhelming condo into a thoughtfully designed, highly functional retreat.
STYLE UPGRADE
Jill purchased the Lantern Point condo pre-construction in 2011, and at the time the interior design left much to be desired.
“I wouldn’t say there was a style, it had painter’s beige walls, cherry cabinets, and zero furniture…” she remembers.
As a professional in the world of high-end interior design – Jill was expeditor, warehouse and office manager at HÜIS, and is now procurement manager at Design Studio – she knew what options were out there. She just needed the blank canvas upon which to layer her favourite pieces and styles.
Rather than one major overhaul, Jill’s renovation unfolded gradually – each improvement sparking the next.
“Right before COVID, I tore out the bathroom and it all started from there,” she says. “Then I thought, ‘oh, I should paint the cabinets’, then change the counter, then build a bulkhead…” she says. “Too much sitting and staring at the place led from one thing to another.”
This piecemeal approach allowed the space to evolve organically, with each decision informed by how she actually lived in the apartment, and moving in tandem with evolving tastes and styles.
Coveted items, artwork and style choices made their way into her home.
FUNCTION
One of the most impactful changes came from rethinking under-utilised space.
“The half-bath right off the kitchen was never used – it was a waste of great space,” Jill explains.
With guidance from her friend and designer Katie Adams of Niche Design, the little-used bathroom was transformed into a compact pantry – which is one of the condo’s standout features.
“It was the best thing I ever did,” she says.
Despite the phased approach overall, individual renovations were executed quickly and efficiently. With a tight two-week window to vacate the condo for the pantry build, Jill enlisted a trusted contractor.
“Richie from Nelson Building and Maintenance got started and finished on time – they were fabulous,” she enthuses.
Earlier updates, like replacing the flooring with plank porcelain tiles, were completed just as efficiently, transforming the entire apartment in about a week.
FRIENDLY COLLABORATION
Although Jill brought her own industry knowledge to the table, she credits collaboration as key to the success of the project.
“I’m lucky to have a wonderful bestie, Katie,” she says. “She knew I had a really small budget and still managed to create my little haven.”
The two worked together to re-style the space, with new living room furniture, nightstands, lamps, rugs and bar stools, as well as a storage bed to add more storage space. The walls were refreshed with new art installations.
Jill’s experience working behind the scenes in design, while a benefit, also came with its challenges.
“There were too many options,” she says. “I would always see all the beautiful designs and, of course wanted everything.” With a piece of learned advice, she adds: “Always listen to your designer.”
When finished, the apartment embraced a clean, modern aesthetic with thoughtful details that elevate everyday living. But beyond style, it was the functionality that truly defined the space.
It’s a home that proves great design isn’t about square footage – it’s about intention.
FURNITURE/ACCESSORIES: HÜIS
DESIGNER: Katie Adams , Niche Design
BUILDING CONTRACTOR: Nelson Building and Maintenance
