THE KITCHEN is the key component in this main floor renovation, with increased workspace, storage, natural light and family space and improved traffic flow.
Creating a successful renovation begins long before construction starts. It begins with listening — understanding how a family lives within their home, how they gather, entertain, function and ultimately, how they want to feel within their space. For this recent main-level renovation, the homeowners — a busy family of six — wanted to expand their kitchen, increase natural light, and create an environment that encouraged connection while maintaining practical, uninterrupted workspaces for everyday living and entertaining.
THE LIVING ROOM changes were primarily cosmetic, with new furniture, flooring and paint.
At Amber Light Custom Cabinetry, the design process is rooted in understanding the full scope of a client’s needs before construction e ver begins.
Yvonne McLeod
As with many renovations, some of the greatest design challenges were not what would be added, but rather how to thoughtfully work around the home’s existing conditions. Existing door and window placements, mechanical systems, structural limitations, budget considerations, resale value and the clients’ long-term plans for the home all played a significant role in shaping the final design. A well-designed kitchen is not simply about aesthetics; it is an investment in how a family experiences their home every day. When approached thoughtfully, kitchen renovations can often yield a substantial return on investment while dramatically improving quality of life.
“At Amber Light Custom Cabinetry, the design process is rooted in understanding the full scope of a client’s needs before construction ever begins,” says Yvonne McLeod, the firm’s principal designer. “Every project is approached with careful planning, realistic budgeting and detailed scope development, to ensure clients feel informed and confident throughout the renovation process.”
THE POWDER ROOM was updated with darker cabinetry, with a brushed brass faucet, mirror and light fixture.
For this Sunningdale home, several key considerations influenced the final layout, including whether relocating the laundry room to the second level would better support the family’s daily routines and how the existing HVAC system could be retrofitted to accommodate wall relocations and structural changes. Once the design evolved into a footprint that functioned both aesthetically and practically, collaboration with engineers, contractors and skilled trades allowed the team to develop a comprehensive construction plan with very little left to interpretation.
To realize the design, three pieces must connect: the homeowners’ need/want; the designer’s vision to address those; and the builder’s realization of both.
DUO Building Ltd. was hired as the project’s contractor, and collaboration played a critical role in the success of the renovation. “As a contractor, one of the most valuable things you can have before starting a renovation project is a clear, detailed design, confirmed selections and a well-structured schedule — and that’s exactly what working with Yvonne at Amber Light Custom Cabinetry provided on this project,” says John Relouw, owner of DUO. “Knowing the layout, materials and scope of work up front means our team can plan trades, coordinate deliveries and schedule the work with confidence rather than making costly decisions on the fly. That foundation is everything.”
Before
THE DINING ROOM is bathed in natural light, with a new table and chairs that complement the new flooring and brighter paint.
“Yvonne (McLeod, designer) worked closely with the client for the floor plan,” says Relouw. “She reached out to us to finish the project. There was some structural work to take out a wall, add point loads into the basement, and put it all back together. We managed the trades (plumbing, electrical, flooring, painting). Working with our trades is good because you know what you get. We have good relationships.”
McLeod’s design included removing a wall and hall to provide more kitchen space, adding a coffee bar and eat-in island, and updating the two-piece bath and laundry. “Working with a good design is a key element,” says Relouw. “Making the hallway part of the kitchen got rid of wasted space.”
As well as the structural changes, DUO replaced two small windows with one large one that brings in light and a view of the backyard.
Of course, no renovation is without its surprises, and when clients are living in the home throughout the process, the ability to adapt is just as important as the plan itself. “Having a strong design vision already in place gave us the flexibility to accommodate client requests and adjust course without losing momentum,” says Relouw. “The big decisions had already been made thoughtfully. The result was a project that stayed on budget, respected the clients’ daily life, and delivered a kitchen that truly exceeded expectations.”
Before
THE LAUNDRY ROOM was reorganized for better storage and functionality, even while losing square footage to the kitchen’s new refrigerator.
Some of the greatest design challenges were not what would be added, but rather how to thoughtfully work around the home’s existing conditions.
Once the structural engineering was complete and the required beam work and mechanical modifications were finalized, the Amber Light cabinetry phase began. The custom-built cabinetry was carefully detailed to support the demands of a busy family for durability and practicality while preserving a clean and elevated aesthetic. Paired with a rock-solid hardware system, the cabinetry delivers thoughtful organization, long-term performance and everyday ease of use.
One particularly thoughtful design solution involved creating the illusion of a full pantry wall through custom shallow-depth cabinetry measuring only seven inches deep. While visually streamlined, the storage wall was intentionally designed to accommodate an array of functional kitchen essentials while maintaining the clean architectural aesthetic of the space.
The island itself became a defining feature within the home, designed not only as a preparation area but as a destination for gathering. Incorporating dual work zones and generous seating, the island allows multiple family members to comfortably use the kitchen simultaneously while encouraging conversation, connection and shared daily experiences. “We selected HanStone Quartz Canada ‘Calacatta Gold’ for the perimeter countertops, island and backsplash,” says McLeod. Bold yet refined, the soft white foundation of the material is complemented by subtle ribbons of taupe and grey, accented with delicate warm veining that creates a timeless and captivating aesthetic. “The balanced palette includes both the warm and cool sides of the colour spectrum,” adds McLeod, “allowing the space to work with changing design trends, giving longevity to the overall investment.” To maintain visual cohesion throughout the home, the Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) wall colour was selected to closely complement both the cabinetry and trim details. This restrained tonal approach allows the beautifully picturesque backyard views to remain front and centre, enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior spaces while maximizing the home’s natural light.
THE COFFEE BAR utilizes previously wasted hallway space, allowing for more storage, another sink and prep area, an energy-efficient double-drawer dishwasher and less kitchen congestion for a busy family.
The flooring selection was equally intentional and rooted in preserving the overall character and feel of the home. While the home’s original solid cherry flooring was undeniably beautiful, it offered limitations in both versatility and suitability for the lifestyle of an active family. In its place, a white oak engineered hardwood was selected for its durability, timelessness and ability to remain steadfast through changing trends.
As McLeod explains, “When selecting flooring, regardless of the material, I never choose a finish without carefully considering its construction, the type of home and the lifestyle of the people living within it. More permanent design elements — such as flooring, countertops and tile selections — should create a quieter foundation within the space, allowing additional layers and furnishings to evolve naturally over time. The softer white oak tone also contributes to a more comfortable and casual atmosphere while maintaining the durability and wearability needed for long-term living.”
“We were impressed with Yvonne’s design sense and appreciated how she listened to our ideas,” say the delighted homeowners, “creating a design that made beautiful and functional use of our space.”
“Seeing everything come together, the colours, the furniture, it goes from dated to something cool and trendy,” says Relouw. “It’s more functional, a warmer space.” The results show the success of the pieces coming together beautifully. The success of this renovation was ultimately rooted in collaboration by local designers, contractors, engineers and skilled trades throughout every phase of the project. The transformation unfolded seamlessly, and the result is a house that now feels brighter, warmer and more connected. It’s a space with increased value, but more importantly, it will enrich the daily lives of the people who call it home.
JANIS WALLACE has written for newspapers, magazines, scripts and social media on topics from music to dog food, fashion to décor, agriculture to gardens. She wrote a book about a theatre, a place she loves to be in the audience or on stage.
