The Six Design Secrets of Weaving Warmth & Elegance into Modern Living Spaces

By Alyssa Moscovitch-Young,
Harper Gray Design

In the vibrant world of interior design, creating spaces that feel both welcoming and luxurious is a hallmark of Harper Gray Design. At the heart of our work lies the dedication to create environments that are not only visually striking, but also inherently comforting and inviting—a home that resonates with the vibrancy of family life. Here we’ll walk through a recent full home renovation where we’ll unfold the six foundational elements that are instrumental in sculpting such captivating spaces.

Lighting as a Mood Setter

Lighting is the unsung hero of mood setting in a home, transforming spaces with the flick of a switch. In the living room, for example, we’ve moved beyond the basics to include sconces, a floor lamp, pot lights, and even the glow of a fireplace. Each lighting element, used alone or in concert, can create intimate, warm settings tailored to the time of day or the desired ambiance. It’s about more than illumination; it’s about creating an atmosphere. Ambient lighting softens a room, while accent lighting draws the eye to art or architectural details, adding layers of interest. By mixing these different lighting sources, we craft spaces that are dynamic, adaptable, and endlessly inviting.

Colour Harmony

Colour is so much more than just a backdrop; it sets the whole vibe of a room. We’re big believers in choosing colours that not only look good but feel right, reflecting the unique personality of those who live there. Look how we transformed the study with a deep navy blue. While some might shy away from such a bold choice, we found it brought a cozy, intimate feel to the space. By carrying this color across the walls, doors, and trims, we wrapped the room in what feels like a warm hug.

Architectural Character

Mouldings and paneling add an essential layer of depth and character to any room. For this project’s dining room, these elements did more than just adorn…they told a story. Applied mouldings segmented the space beautifully, drawing attention to art pieces and elegant lighting, infusing the room with a sense of history and charm. It’s a nod to the past that feels perfectly at home in the present, marrying timeless elegance with a clean, modern aesthetic.

The Magic of Texture

For us, texture is the secret ingredient that makes a space not just seen but felt. In the office we used textured wallpaper to add subtle intrigue, playing nicely with the room’s colour scheme. The strategic use of textures—from the softness of the rug to the smoothness of the metal lamp—invites touch, creating an environment that’s as comforting as it is visually appealing.

The Art of Layering

Layering is akin to storytelling in design, each element adding a rich narrative that makes a room feel complete. In the principal bedroom, our layering began with the basics—the subtle wall colours and rich fabric of the window treatments—before introducing a mix of materials and textures. A shag rug adds softness, contrasting with the hardwood floors, while the linen sofa and velvet ottomans play with light and shadow. The marble fireplace mantel, bench and accessories contribute depth, adding interest through subtle details.

The careful curation of these layers creates a space that feels considered and complete. Layering is not an afterthought; it is a process as critical as the floor plan itself. It is the placement of each piece, the choice of every texture, and the blend of colours that make a room feel like a story unfolding with each step.

Embracing Natural Materials

Our commitment to natural materials stems from a desire to ground our designs in the beauty of the natural world. In the principal ensuite, we used stone to create a seamless connection with the outdoors, crafting a space that’s both serene and invigorating. A marble feature wall doesn’t just serve as a focal point; it practically and beautifully divides the space, while its natural patterns add a unique, artistic touch.

Our philosophy at Harper Gray Design is about much more than aesthetics; it’s about creating homes that are as functional as they are beautiful, where every design choice enhances the rhythms of daily life. From the boldness of our colour choices to the subtlety of our textures, each decision is a thread in the tapestry of a home that’s meant to be lived in and loved.

When approaching an interior design project, we think it’s important to understand that a design is about so much more than just the space of the home; it’s the backdrop to your life’s precious moments. It’s not just about creating a home that looks good in a magazine (though we aim for that, too); it’s about crafting spaces where memories are made, where families grow, and where every corner, every colour, and every texture tells the story of a life well-lived.

At Harper Gray Design, we pour our passion and expertise into every project, ensuring that each home we touch becomes a sanctuary of comfort, elegance, and warmth. Because at the end of the day, a home is more than just a place—it’s where the heart is.