Colton Slater and Geoffrey Bernstein’s condo in midtown Toronto is adorned with a variety of unique art and decor pieces that reflect their personal tastes and are acquired out of genuine admiration. Being involved in an antiques business, Slater often uses their home as a testing ground for items before they reach his shop, Housebound Interiors. The couple’s residence sees a continuous rotation of different pieces being added and removed regularly.
Their passion for discovering rare treasures drives this rotation, with Bernstein mentioning that their travels have enabled them to amass a diverse collection from estate sales, auctions, antique malls, and local stores. Their condo layout, resembling a studio with an almost open design, allows their collections to be prominently displayed throughout the space.
One of the standout features of their home is a wall-spanning built-in bookshelf in the living room, which showcases treasured books, paintings, and sculptures. The couple deliberately kept the bookcase painted in the same color as the wall to make the objects and sculptures stand out. A well-curated display highlighted by picture lights.
Describing the overall ambiance of their condo as traditional, neoclassical, and whimsical, Slater notes that despite its formal appearance, they are casual individuals. The color scheme of their home predominantly revolves around black, white, and gold accents, with various design elements meticulously chosen to create a harmonious and stylish environment.
In the galley kitchen, Slater’s inspiration led to the installation of mirrored subway tiles from the counter to the ceiling, enhancing the space with reflective surfaces. The kitchen exudes a bar-like atmosphere in the evenings, adding a unique touch to the overall design. Additionally, a gallery wall featuring framed prints in red frames adorns the powder room, adding a pop of color and artistry to an unexpected space.
Their living room boasts an array of cherished artworks and antiques, with a focus on showcasing busts that Slater has collected over time. The couple’s bedroom, in contrast, follows a more minimalistic design approach, featuring calming elements like a linen bed frame and soft lighting for a restful atmosphere.
Slater’s design philosophy emphasizes the importance of incorporating pieces with history and craftsmanship to create a collected, personalized, and vibrant living space. He highlights the gradual evolution of authentic interiors and the significance of allowing time for each object to hold meaning within the home environment.
Starting with an emotional connection to the space and focusing on creating a serene, layered, and soulful atmosphere, Slater prioritizes feelings over strict design rules when shaping their home. Each piece is thoughtfully selected to contribute to the overall ambiance, resulting in a space that feels uniquely personal and deeply resonant.