3 Places in Ontario that Inspired us this Summer
This summer we had the pleasure of exploring different restaurants, spas and hotels across Ontario. Along the way, we were truly inspired by some of the spaces and visions our fellow Canadian designers brought to life. After reflecting on the amazing places we’ve been to, we narrowed down three of our favourites that we just had to share with you!
Oretta, Italian Restaurant in Toronto, Ontario
If you know us, you know we love ourselves a good arch. So you can imagine our excitement when we walked into Oretta, a restaurant downtown Toronto that reminded us of an old European cathedral open with beautiful grand archways and geometric shapes.
The interior design strategically plays with brass and low hanging frosted light fixtures, intended to draw your eye up to the arches in the ceiling. But along the way you’re greeted with an unusual juxtaposition. The upper half of the space exudes an art-deco like style while at the floor level a more playful retro-industrial feeling is brought in using vintage dining tables, mirrors and colour blocking with the seating.
2. The Beach Motel in Port Elgin, Ontario
Who else agrees that if the word "relaxation" was a photo, these would be it? Back in July we made a trip to the newly renovated Beach Motel located in Port Elgin. We were completely in awe of this space the moment we took in the elegant Scandinavian aesthetic and light muted tones.
I mean just look at it. From the lobby to the lounge, all of the accent colours resembled soft tones you’d find at the beach.
Kudos to the designers for making great use of light woods and smooth lines, from the wall paneling to the mantelpiece over the fireplace. Together the use of textures, colours and quality materials really made the place feel zen and got our wheels turning.
3. Touch Massage Bar in Toronto, Ontario
Walking into this space felt like walking into a heavenly Bali retreat. It's giving pampas grass, a calm nude palette, and textural organic materials - all staple elements for the perfect boho haven.
In the lounge, your eye instantly wanders to the suspended table surrounded by benches dressed up in rattan giving it a neutral serene feeling.
It’s easy to get lost in thought as you relax in these rooms, a feeling that is captured through well-thought out interior design. We will most definitely be back!