A limited release of townhomes is now available at Empire Maven located on Avenue Road, and Toronto-based design firm Truong Ly Design just staged the first of three. Naturally, we asked their design team seven questions about this exclusive home, and we couldn’t resist sharing their answers with you. In this exclusive one-on-one interview, they discuss their inspiration for The Leland and what the design process entailed, highlighting everything from conception to decorating IRL.
The Leland
2 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 2,388 sq.ft.
1. What was your inspiration behind the design of this townhome at Maven?
“We were inspired by an elevated and sophisticated design, with a side of playfulness. Our vision came to life after observing the neighbourhood, and understanding the atmosphere of the surrounding community. By using a simple colour palette with contrasting accents and accessories, and adding touches of geometry and texture, the design came together beautifully. The intent was to create a modern and cozy design, while still keeping it cool and refined.”
2. What was the look you were trying to achieve?
“Our goal was to help prospective buyers envision their future and lifestyle in this home. The townhome’s style is clean and contemporary, with aspects of mid-century modern sprinkled throughout the furnishings. We have to remember that design isn’t just about looks — it’s about invoking a feeling and providing proper form and function within the space. Utilizing contemporary design as the main inspiration, mixed with nostalgic decor pieces, creates a comfortable and welcoming space.”
3. Who were you trying to cater this home to? Tell us about the target audience.
“The townhome is approachable and suitable for anyone, be it a stylish young family or a mature couple. It’s designed for those who find comfort and joy in the community, and are attracted to a more sophisticated lifestyle. The ideal homeowner of this townhome loves to entertain and enjoys the vibrancy of the neighbourhood. They like being close to the action, yet they appreciate the comfort of living on a quiet street just off Avenue Road.”
4. Talk us through the design process from concepts to staging and completion.
“At the start of the design process, we took time to understand our demographic and the overall end-user experience. We wanted to use a design style that was universally accepted, and of course one that was beautiful and elevated. Once we established the target audience in addition to their wants and needs, we ultimately chose a contemporary design style and a neutral palette. The staging process is what really brought the design intent together. After the main furniture pieces were installed, the finishing touches were implemented by accessorizing. Every detail we incorporated has form and function which makes the space feel lifestyle-oriented and welcoming like a home should.”
5. In your opinion, what stands out to you about this floor plan? What makes it different than the other townhomes you’ve seen?
“Over the past few years, open-concept design has been every designer’s layout preference. Now, we find that homeowners appreciate having separate spaces for separate uses. This is a major lifestyle change that’s the result of people spending more time at home, especially during the pandemic.”
“When you enter The Leland, you’re greeted by a spacious foyer that leads you to the living and dining space that’s perfect for entertaining guests or spending time with loved ones. As you walk down the hallway, you land upon the kitchen which features a round breakfast table and servery — detached from the formal dining and living area. With this layout, homeowners gain a more intimate and everyday-use kitchen space. Up the stairway, the master suite has a queen bed and a beautiful balcony with a view of the street. The room also boasts a luxurious ensuite with a double vanity, and two walk-in-closets. The secondary bedroom is the perfect addition for guests or family members who’re planning an extended stay, with a private bathroom and balcony at their disposal. Overall, it’s a very functional space.”
6. What materials, textures and colours did you use? How did they align with the overall look and feel of the suite?
“The townhome has white walls, light hardwood flooring, grey millwork, and stone finishes in the kitchen and bath. When it came to furnishing the home, we loved having a blank canvas to work with. Our goal was to create an inviting feeling through the material and texture of furniture and accessories. A mix of light neutrals — beige, cream and white — was used in various textures to brighten the space, and impart a feeling of openness while bringing in warmth. To ground the interior and add contrast, we incorporated pops of black through smaller furniture pieces. Colour was implemented through the art and decor selected to add more visual interest to the space.”
7. How can homeowners recreate this look in their home? List a few staple pieces they’d need.
“To recreate the look of this home’s main living spaces, incorporate a range of furniture and accessories in a neutral colour scheme, and add bold, black accents for contrast and balance. Select abstract artwork and lighting to help to achieve the home’s mid-century modern vibe. Plants such as trees, branches and florals will add life to the space, while mirrors can help create the illusion of a larger interior. When it comes to the upstairs bedrooms, the colour palette is more playful, meaning that it’s the perfect place to infuse your personality into the design. Choose an accent colour, and create harmony by opting for neutrals throughout the rest of the space.”
About Truong Ly
Truong Ly is one of Toronto’s most sought-after new talents, with a reputation for striking interiors that combine luxury and comfort in equal parts. With a focus on the residential and hospitality industries, Truong Ly’s unique designs and diverse services have been key to his success and growth.
Interested in Maven’s limited release of townhomes? Learn more about these exclusive housing opportunities now, starting from the high $2 millions. Don’t forget to tour the townhomes at our open house each weekend at 412, 414 and 416 Brookdale Avenue. Please note: Limited parking is available at the back of the Maven presentation centre, located at 1666 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON. Additional parking is available along Avenue Road.