RAQUEL O'HALLORAN from East York

When I made the decision to gut my kitchen and partially renovate the main floor of my inner-city Tudor style home, I had a very hard time finding a designer. I wished to update my family space, yet maintain the traditional bones of the home.Some of my ideas were unconventional; I was designing for my family, not for resale. Damian at Lindsay Contracting was willing to work with me without drawings, and took an understanding and easy going approach to my many whims and add ons. I couldn`t commit to any particulars until the walls came down. Damian and I worked together then on a layout that would maximize the space I had, as I could not increase my footprint in the kitchen. We decided to go as vertical as possible, with a mix of traditional lines and industrial bistro. The result was a beautiful, functional urban, sophisticated space with industrial-commercial elements, fitting a traditional home. As I had no drawings, and changed my mind often, this meant Damian was delayed by me at different stages of the reno, and he took it all in stride. The main floor came together with site-finished oak floors, new crown mouldings in the dining area, and new lighting in the living room, as well as other updates throughout the main floor. Although I love a traditional home, I wanted a living space to showcase abstract art and mid-century modern furniture designed for living. The end result is a fabulously updated living space, that`s airy and light, yet transitions from modern to a formal yet inviting dining space and designated home office. Each room is anchored, yet updated. Partial open concept worked best for this home, and we didn`t fall prey to be being too on-trend. Damian was great to work with. Communication on this project was key to it`s success. I could always reach him, and was grateful for his flexibility. We lived in the home during the process, a challenge for a busy family of 4, made easier by a standard of cleaning up after after each work day and working with me to ensure we were as comfortable as possible. We are very happy with our new old home. Aesthetic beauty and livability; I would recommend Lindsay Contracting, especially if you have an older Toronto home you have to update and need a contractor that understands that you wish maintain some of the architectural integrity of your home.