Imagine walking into your home and instantly feeling the weight of the day melt away. That’s the dream, right? But for many families, achieving that sense of calm and flow in their living space feels like an impossible task. And this is where the real challenge begins. Take the story of a Saanich family, for instance, who turned to interior architectural designer Alexis Solomon to transform their chaotic, outdated home into a sanctuary of functionality and beauty.
This busy young couple, with children—one of whom has a disability—needed more than just a stylish space. They needed a home that worked for their unique needs, where mom, a full-time caregiver, could breathe a sigh of relief the moment she walked in. But here’s where it gets controversial: How do you balance aesthetics with practicality, especially when accessibility is a priority? Alexis, owner of MINT Freshly Inspired Design, took on the task of redesigning their 3,000-square-foot Broadmead home in phases, focusing on maximizing storage, brightening the space, and improving flow.
The house, built in the ’90s, had plenty of space but lacked functionality. And this is the part most people miss: Even large homes can feel cramped if the layout doesn’t support your lifestyle. The kitchen, in particular, was a nightmare—dark, cluttered, and inefficient. Oddly angled cabinets, scattered light switches, and an unused breakfast nook made it a space that didn’t align with the family’s love for cooking and connection.
Alexis got creative, knocking down most of the wall between the kitchen and the neglected nook, though plumbing stacks forced her to keep a portion, which she repurposed with a floating shelf. The result? A brighter, more open space with a walk-in pantry and a dining area that still offered mom some separation while cooking. But here’s the bold part: She didn’t stop at functionality. Larger windows, bright white walls, and a shiplap ceiling with a high-sheen finish added elegance and light. A layered lighting plan—ambient, wall, decorative, and under-cabinet—ensured the space felt inviting at any time of day.
Throughout the home, Alexis infused calmness and energy through strategic use of patterns and colors. A neutral palette, layered with golds, blacks, greys, and custom-stained wood, created a timeless yet dramatic effect. Here’s where opinions might differ: While some might shy away from patterns, Alexis placed them intentionally—on tile floors, in showers, and even on ceilings—to add personality without overwhelming the space. One shower features a geometric wall with soft greys and taupes, while another boasts marble-like porcelain tiles for a luxurious feel. A third bathroom, moody and dramatic, showcases heavily veined stone and brass hardware for a rich, atmospheric vibe.
The result? A home that’s not just beautiful but deeply personal. The client’s reaction says it all: ‘I finally feel like I love my house.’ But here’s the question: What does your dream home look like, and are you willing to rethink traditional design rules to achieve it?
For anyone seeking peace in their home, Alexis suggests starting with a simple yet profound question: Where do you feel most comfortable and calm? It’s not just about colors or tones but about finishes, textures, and even the reflective qualities of materials. Decluttering and intentional storage play a huge role too. And this is where it gets personal: Sometimes, letting go of items—even those with sentimental value—is necessary to create a space that truly supports your life. The goal? Make choices that lighten your load, not add to it. When your home aligns with your needs, that sense of ease becomes second nature.
So, what’s holding you back from creating a home that feels like a sanctuary? Is it fear of making the wrong choices, or maybe the belief that design has to be complicated? Alexis’s work proves that with thoughtful planning and a bit of creativity, any space can become a place of calm and joy. Now, here’s the controversial part: Do you think professional design is a luxury, or is it a necessity for creating a functional, beautiful home? Let’s discuss in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
