Practical family living meets refined transitional design in this coastal retreat

When Jil Sonia McDonald was asked by her client – a busy family with two sport-loving teens – to redesign their townhouse living room, she was tasked with finding the perfect balance of form and function.

The result is a beautiful yet practical family living room that achieves a refined coastal vibe by incorporating custom glass tile, weathered wood furniture, and seaside decor, that perfectly reflects both the family's lifestyle, and the home's location on the West Coast of Canada.

“My client wanted a functional home with durable fabrics, but also wanted to incorporate a coastal vibe,” said McDonald. “A jumping point for us was choosing the custom glass tile around the fireplace. The watery blues, whites, and greens along with the fish scale shape bring a seaside look to her living room.”

A large poly rug grounds the space and upon it sits a large round weathered wood coffee table.

Seaside decor – including coral, sand, starfish, shells, and pillows with hand painted fish – give a nod to the nearby ocean.

Chinese console tables sit either side of the fireplace and provide a home for circular gold lamps, wooden sculpture and a mixture of well-selected candles and more seaside decor.

“The home is located on the West Coast of Canada where we have the fresh sea breezes and comfortable climate,” said McDonald. “As the ocean is just a short drive away, it’s wonderful to have continuity between the surroundings and her home.”

The living room provides a great example of how interior design can be both practical and beautiful in equal measure.

As the ocean is just a short drive away, it’s wonderful to have continuity between the surroundings and the home