Sophisticated Maximalism: Crane Loft in Vancouver by Studio Roslyn.

On the eastern edge of Vancouver’s downtown core lies a pocket of the city dubbed ‘Crosstown’ where an enclave of early 20th-century heritage buildings can be found along the main hub of Beatty Street. These buildings have since been converted into a tapestry of warehouse-style lofts—former industrial spaces full of character hint at former lives as bustling production, manufacturing and office spaces. “Our latest residential project, Crane Loft, is an 83 square meter example of these spaces, replete with rich red brick walls, wooden windows and original columns,” explain Studio Roslyn co-founders, Kate Snyder and Jessica MacDonald, who worked with their colleague Zafirah Bacchus on the renovation of this character-filled loft.

“When working in the residential space, our process is naturally more intimate and personalized to the clients living in the home,” said Kate and Jessica. “We worked closely with owner Jasmeet to create a design that speaks clearly to her unique aesthetic sensibilities, personality and lifestyle. In the true sense of the word, she was the muse for our project. Her personal style, philosophy on life, love of hosting and an exceptional sense of taste all played key roles in our approach and design programming for her home.”

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Studio Roslyn landed on a signature eclectic mix, this time moody and bold, sexy and elegant— or as they like to call it—sophisticated maximalism. Layered patterns and textures, inspired by Jasmeet’s love for vintage 70s glam, are carefully choreographed to effortlessly blend together. Artwork and objects were selected and positioned to work seamlessly with her existing collection. Vibrant, deeply coloured textiles, velvet curtains, Versace wallpapers and custom area rugs create divisions between functional zones and atmospheres of the space. This layered approach brings a sense of depth, character and soul that delivers warmth to the inherently cold nature of an industrial loft.

“From a space-planning perspective, our team worked to carefully maximize the potential of the loft’s small footprint and create functionality for Jasmeet’s endeavours,” explain Kate and Jessica. Custom joinery touches almost every surface of the space, including full-height library shelving, a custom writing desk, expanded kitchen cabinetry and smart storage solutions. “Rather than hide the heritage details, including large columns in the main living area, we sought to highlight and utilise them to create divisions of space and embrace the history of the building and neighbourhood,” says the duo. The result is a home that reflects its owner from every angle, boldly celebrating her past, present and future.

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Kate and Jessica met over 10 years ago while studying Architecture at University, developing a friendship while studying and later working at some of the best firms in Vancouver, most recently at notable local interior design firm, and Yellowtrace favourite, Ste Marie Art + Design.

They established their studio in 2017, with their muse Roslyn providing a conceptual focal point for their creative output and aspirations as designers. “She is fearless, provocative and highly intelligent,” explains the pair. “She knows how to ask the tough questions and make the hard decisions, but she also has a steady hand and a warm heart. She is at the core of what defines our spirit, ethos and aesthetic.” See more projects by Studio Roslyn on Yellowtrace here.

[Images courtesy of Studio Roslyn. Photography by Lauren Zbarsky.]