This Vancouver apartment makes a treat out of a tricky floor plan

The property

For a masterclass in how to make the most of a quirky floor plan while still thinking about modern home design, look to this inspiring project led by interior designer Gillian Segal in the beautiful Canadian city of Vancouver.

Segal was called in to save the day by a developer client who was struggling to sell eight apartments with challenging, unusual layouts. Though sold on their location, would-be buyers were finding it difficult to visualise living in these spaces.

Within a tight five-week timeframe, Segal and her team transformed the trickiest of floor plans into a warm, contemporary show suite that highlighted both function and flair.

Despite a city-wide shutdown in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Segal brought the apartment to life with custom millwork, bespoke upholstery, luxurious drapery and unique decor sourced from artisans worldwide.

Just one month after opening the show suite, every property had been snapped up.

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Living room

Floor to ceiling windows draw the surrounding leafy trees into this contemporary living space. Warm wooden detailing and soft ivory curtains keep it from feeling cold and earthy blue cushions add depth to the neutral palette. The rich aubergine cabinet opens to reveal a TV and shelving.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Floor lamp with rattan shade from Arteriors. Glass rectangular coffee table from Iacoli & Mcallister. Curved back lounge chairs from inform. Grey marble side table from CB2. Custom upholstery (curved back sofa and dining banquette) and TV millwork by Gillian Segal Design.

Segal thoughtfully curated decorations - including sculptures and coffee table books - from all around the world.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Rose marble plinths from inform. 

Dining space

The rigid triangular shape of this statement pendant light is softened by an oval dining table and a pastel blue velvet bench. Curved cream armchairs and pampas grass cosies up the design while an organic-shaped mirror throws an abundance of light around the space.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Dining top with black oak base from RH and black mid-century dining chairs from France & Son. Blue velvet fabric for custom banquette seating is Romo by Ann Starr. Brass globe fixture from Apparatus Lighting. Modern mirror from 1st Dibs. Ceramic sculpture by Danica Kaspar and 'Every Becoming' artwork by Zoe Pawlak.

Kitchen

Shiny all-white kitchen cabinets create a glossy wash effect that contrasts with the island's honeyed wooden worktop. Chic industrial touches in the form of monochrome stools and steel appliances nod to the current trend in an understated fashion.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Bouclé backless counter stools by Mermelada Estudio for CB2. Kitchen accessories and florals from Celsia Florist. 

Butler's pantry

Drinks trolleys remain popular but Segal has also shown how to make a statement with crockery and dry foods. Piling lemons in a rustic wicker basket brings a countryside homeliness to an otherwise hard and modern space. The panelled ceiling complements the mahogany flooring to add period charm. 

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

See Also: Pantry Ideas: Dreamy Kitchen Pantries

Get the look: Pantry baker's rack and hutch from Crate & Barrel. Black bar cart and handwoven ivory rug from Wayfair. Grasscloth wallpaper from Philip Jeffries. 

Home office

Working in your home office would feel like a luxury if you had this statement red velvet throne to sit on! The minimalist white desk lets the soothing sight of trees take the spotlight and warm grey curtains play into the natural aesthetic.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Decorative gold accents complement the matt black lampshade and textured greige wallpaper.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Cream desk with drawer from CB2. Warren Platner chair with merlot velvet upholstery from inform. Ballard sconce from Human Home. Black dome pendant light from Atelier de Troupe. Grasscloth wallcovering from Philip Jefferies and art by Tappan Art. Custom kidney shape rug by Gillian Segal Design.

Bedroom

The bedroom should be a sanctuary - a place to restore and ground yourself after a busy day. This soothing design sticks to a calming earthy palette but plays with shape and texture to keep things interesting. Neatly pleated curtains and glam round cushions sit together in harmony.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Playful touches include contemporary wall hangings and a shaggy sheep sculpture! Nature remains the star of this show thanks to more floor to ceiling windows.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Upholstered king bed from RH. Black nightstands from Blu Dot. Tarnished silver base with white lamp shade from Amy Meirer. Three-arm lighting fixture from 1st Dibs. Bedding from Last Light and blanket from Hermes. Sheep sculpture from  Davinci's.

Live-in suite

Why offer guests a spare bedroom when you can offer them a spare live-in suite? This sofa bed combines function and style while a statement light with rattan detailing keeps the vibe warm and welcoming.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

The annexe kitchen is a continuation of the main kitchen with its glossy handleless cabinets and grey marble splashback. The black and metallic stools add edge and the counter table offers the ideal spot for Sunday brunch.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Storage has been made a style feature throughout this apartment. Gold brackets complement white marble shelving and an eclectic array of Japandi-style bowls and glassware lends fascination to the worktops.

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Get the look: Sofa bed from CB2 and ivory bouclé ottomans from Article. Three-light fixture is Salt by Caza. Counter height dining table from EQ3 and counter height stools from France & Son. Dining storage from Ikea and marble shelving from CB2. Sconce from Blueprint and ivory rug from CB2. Painting above counter table is 'Espace D' by Carla Tak.

See Also: An industrial London apartment full of clever decor twists

Interior design: Gillian Segal Design