What’s one of the things Designer Helena Da Costa of Toronto design firm Twelveo5 does to gather inspiration before she decorates her clients’ homes? In addition to reading the latest interior design magazines and sourcing photography online, she notes that many of her ideas are sparked from watching real-estate and home-improvement shows. The Germain is Empire Maven’s newest model suite located on the building’s top floor, inspired by the luxurious LA homes Helena has recently seen on TV. When the time comes for someone to own The Germain, they’ll revel in luxe features, designer-selected finishes and unparalleled views of the Avenue and Lawrence neighbourhood. This 2-bedroom and 2.5-bathroom suite boasts 2,531 sq.ft. of living space, a wrap-around balcony, motorized blinds and pot lights — designed with an attention to detail that the Maven resident deserves.
Prior to designing the model home, Helena toured the suite to get a sense of the space, volume and key features that make the floor plan unique. She wanted the suite to feel luxurious, comfortable and have a sense of lightness to it. “Once I had a direction for the look I was trying to achieve, I searched for furniture pieces that would complement each other and be proportionate to the rooms,” says Helena. To replicate her timeless contemporary design, Helena shares the key pieces you need to purchase for your home. The takeaway? “Keep your main furniture pieces neutral and incorporate textures and tones in the same colour family, add simple accessories and avoid clutter.”
Bright and Airy Kitchen
From the moment you wake up in the morning to when the sun sets, the kitchen imparts a sense of grandeur. Large windows wrap around the breakfast area, allowing an abundance of natural light to pour in — making the room appear even larger than it is. A custom hood canopy and decorative mantel are two of the room’s coveted features, matched by a servery with glass upper cabinets.
Urban Industrial Armless Barstools in black and white by Trent Austin Design, Wayfair.
Fabric and Metal Dining Chair in Oatmeal, Bouclair.
Suazo 2 – Light Cluster Globe Pendant in Chrome by Wade Logan, Wayfair.
Black & White Crossing Paths II by Designart Canada, Loblaws.
Formal Dining Room
The Germain’s dining room accommodates guests perfectly, whether you’re hosting a more intimate gathering or a larger celebration with family and friends. The table can seat parties of ten people or more, and a partition wall divides the room, providing some extra privacy without closing it off from the rest of the suite.
Chapman Drawer Sideboard in Black by Tronk Design, Wayfair.
Kate and Laurel Octagonal Wall Mirror in Gold, Bed Bath & Beyond.
Decatur Dining Chair in Nantucket Grey, Urban Barn.
Acropolis Led Linear Chandelier in Aged Brass by Modern Forms, Wayfair.
Elegant Living Room
To keep with the bright and airy feel, Helena used a natural palette throughout the suite — especially in the living room. Not only does this allow the unit’s abstract artwork to stand out, but it also allows its future owner’s personal collections of art to be the center of attention. “With such great wall space to work with, I know that whoever buys The Germain will probably have a beautiful collection of pieces they’d display,” says Helena. A marble feature wall with a gas fireplace is the focal point of the room and gives the suite a romantic feel. The room is spacious and is adjacent to the dining room, with convenient access to the wrap-around terrace.
Sleen Sofa in Thames Cream, Modern Komfort.
SAFAVIEH Coffee Table in Malone White and Chrome, Overstock.
Kiester Bar Cart in Black by Wade Logan, Wayfair.
Luxurious Primary Bedroom
Radiating with luxury, The Germain’s primary bedroom is fit for a king and queen. Boasting a spa-like ensuite with a large custom shower and vanity, double walk-in closets and a dedicated seating area, this room is a true retreat. This separation of private and public spaces is what makes this model’s floor plan so unique. “Having an elongated layout not only allows for this separation, but it also means that each principal room has direct access to the suite’s wrap-around terrace,” says Helena. “This type of indoor and outdoor connection is rare to find in a condominium building.”
Manuel Upholstered Bench in Cream by Everly Quinn, Wayfair.
Tate Walnut 2-Drawer Midcentury Charging Nightstand, Crate & Barrel.
Recycled Glass Table Lamp in Clear, West Elm.
Spacious Additional Rooms
Your home should complement your lifestyle — The Germain does that best. Home to a secondary bedroom and dedicated office space, this suite gives residents the opportunity to host guests — be it family or friends — and work from home. The office space can also be converted into a flex room or a study, and is highly adaptive to the needs of its residents. The secondary bedroom features an ensuite and access to the unit’s wrap-around balcony.
Modern Minimalist Round Stacked Accent Mirror by Ashley Brewer, Wayfair.
Classic Belgian Flax Linen Rod Pocket Curtain in Dark Flax, Pottery Barn.
Mid-Back Black Leather Executive Swivel Chair with Chrome Base and Arms by Flash Furniture, Walmart.
Calliope Swivel Barrel Chair by Kelly Clarkson Home, Wayfair.
Now’s your chance to own one of the few remaining suites available at Empire Maven. Book an appointment now to privately tour this breathtaking suite. And if you’re looking for more design inspiration, discover Helena’s take on warm, luxe neutrals.