It was clear at the recent Fall Home Show (September 18-21) if you were looking for new ways to refresh your space and make it your own, you’d find it here.

The show, now in its 26th year, is Toronto’s largest Fall Home Show, with more than 300 renovation and home décor specialists. But, this year’s big crowd-pleaser was a space that showcased what’s new, hot and always in style all in one.

Modern Living #justright, designed by Emmanuel Belliveau, creative director and founder of FLOROHome, features furnishings from casalife and brings a “Goldilocks” approach to today’s modern living. Too hot? Too cold? #justright.

This unique space breaks the ice with the typical cold modern that permeates many minds when referencing this type of home design and décor. The Modern Living #justright feature engages the senses with a year round green courtyard and shows, with the help of architecture, functional interior design and contemporary, stylish unique furniture, how you can warm it up for our unique climate.

“As the feature of the Toronto Fall Home Show, Modern Living #justright will architecturally give a sense of urban infill living,” states Emmanuel Belliveau, of FLOROHome. “Inner Court Yard homes allow home owners to experience greenscape and openness without having a front or back yard. I think this is a great idea for a Toronto centric show as with urban density, this concept can really thrive.”

Furnished with the latest collection of designed furniture, lighting and accessories from casalife, Modern Living #justright showcases functional, clutter free décor with a mix of organic elements. Bring the serenity of outdoors into the city with outdoor deck tiles from Kandy Outdoor and an inner courtyard.

Emmanuel Belliveau

I got a chance to sit down with designer Emmanuel to pick his brain on new trends and creating a space that works – for you.

GOTO: What advice can you give GOTO readers when tackling a space refresh?

EB: First ask yourself what is the use of the space? It’s purpose drives every‎thing. Function always before form. Then narrow down your choices (size, how many bedrooms, baths, is this space a long-term or shorter purchase…) this will help  set limitations and than you can determine your budget.

GOTO: How do you choose colours and accessories?

EB: When designer your space focus on a classic colour range [to add longevity to your space] you can add pops of colour via artwork, sculpture and accessories, as well as seasonal cushions and bedding changes. I believe in editing. I use the example of the night sky. Think twilight. You see a see star in the sky. There’s a pop, then you come back and it can be overwhelming‎ when all the stars come out. You don’t know where to look first.

GOTO: So, if I came to your home, what style would I find?

EB: Modern Transitional and warm! Clean, linear, simple, but always warm and inviting. It’s like Goldielocks (same thinking we used for the Modern Living #justright space) it’s just right, Goldielocks would approve.

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