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We are defined by life experiences, continuously cultivating and refining our sense of style and personal aesthetic as we move through this world. It’s important that our homes (haven: a.k.a. place away from it all) reflect WHO we are so that we can feel connected to the one place that harbours us, our loved ones and our meaningful belongings for years to come.

Born in the south of France, I spent my summers running wild and free with my cousins, travelling between city and country, beach and farm. Rich colour, delicious cuisine, ancient architecture, timeless elegance, the blend of old and new, layered textures, and everything a touch bohemian - this is my France. I learned so much about light, space, colour and form just from sitting outdoors at a dining table, taking in breathtaking landscapes.

Raised in the farmlands of southern Ontario, surrounded by open land, freshwater lakes and century old farmhouses,  it’s no wonder I'm drawn to moody winter colours, rich woods, stone, and natural fibres. I love natural elements and sustainable design that endures. But I’m not all country… I’m a little bit rock and roll too; I live north of the bustling city, but still love returning to Toronto, where I spent many years, enjoying great dining, the arts and the vibe of urban living. 

It’s all these lived experiences that have culminated into the design expression that I build into my work with clients, creating spaces that bring forth who my clients really feel they are. There is no greater joy for me and my team than being able to help clients realize their design dreams as true expressions of themselves.

So that’s me.

I have a great team that supports these wonderful projects and amazing clients, both in house and in the field.  Together, with a roster of trusted trades people, we design and build soulful spaces, creating well-loved havens, to be enjoyed for years to come.   

FOLLOW OUR PROJECTS

Early morning view of this sweet little tub within a wet room. This photo can’t quite capture the morning light that’s actually here, which is milky and warm. One bathes not only in hot water but in a wash of morning sun.
A little splice of two spaces that used to be separated by walls… opening this up, matching existing paneling, perfecting the space and light in this formally dark dining room has created a vibe that begs for big meals and lots of laughs. Ph
This particular project was all decorating + redesign where we worked on fundamentals like dated fireplaces, walls that screamed the need for applied panelling, art, window coverings, new furnishings and elegant lighting…. These “makeove
Sometimes it’s just about a closeup.   Our North of Nine Project… see it on our website www.GairdnerDesign.com/NorthOfNine #layeredkitchens #layeredkitchendesign #hometohaven #gairdnerdesign #farmhousekitchen #farmhousekitchen
We love a good before and after examination. As a team, we like to look at the changes we made with the biggest impact. Sometimes it's that we streamlined with one flooring material because it’s quieter for the mind. Sometimes it's a functional
A basement refreshment bar doesn’t have to be boring… in fact, it’s a chance to have a different vibe than the rest of the house. Looking good, basement bar. Looking good. #hometohaven #gairdnerdesign #howihaven #basementkitchen
Rich colours take main stage in this kitchen remodel, and we can’t get enough of the dark black cabinet colour with dark blue undertones. Soot (2129-20 by Benjamin Moore) is an understated - serious, even - warm black with versatility. It also
As holidays approach, we prepare for more. Maybe it’s more time in the kitchen, more time with friends and family, more eating, more laughing, more running around getting ready. But hopefully for all, more joy, memories and more love to go arou
We’ve had fun designing two person showers over the years, but this one takes the cake. With heated floors and heated bench (seat and backrest), bluetooth steam controls, luxe shower components by @franzviegener and enough space for way more th
What was once concrete and stud walls (and a whole lot of plastic shelving), is now a sweet place to do laundry. Basement laundry can be pretty too. Photo: Dan Molina @danmolinastudio #hometohaven #gairdnerdesign #howihaven #farmhousedesign #farm