Modern comfortPublished on December 5, 2012

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  • Personality is injected into the sleek NEFF kitchen with artistic sculptures, including a Joe fafard cow on the island and Carol’s worldly crow collection


  • A contemporary staircase, floating fireplace hearth and modern buffet complement the esthetically pleasing flow throughout the home.


  • A contemporary staircase, floating fireplace hearth and modern buffet complement the esthetically pleasing flow throughout the home.


  • Liam, one of the family’s two standard poodles struts in front of a colourful work by Rod’s brother James Lahey


  • A contemporary staircase, floating fireplace hearth and modern buffet complement the esthetically pleasing flow throughout the home.


  • Asian inspired chairs from Suede Interiors in the second floor hall executes a look of worldly inspirations, combined with a Gerald Tremblay painting (behind chairs) and small table from Bali.


  • Rod Lahey in front of a dramatic black wall that offers dimension to the otherwise neutral palette


BUILDING NEW

After living in a century-old home in the established neighbourhood of McKellar Park, architect Rod Lahey decided that renovating was a never-ending job and new construction was the way to go. He and his wife Carol bought a property in the heart of the area — part of the vibrant village of Westboro — and they finally have a home customized to suit their lifestyle.

CONTEMPORARY WELCOME

Part of the challenge for Rod was to create a contemporary environment that was warm and inviting. "Modern usually means cold," Rod acknowledges. But the couple has an astonishing art collection that includes glass and sculpture collections from many renowned artists, including Rod's brother, acclaimed Canadian artist James Lahey. It makes their home a backdrop for objects of beauty and intrigue, proving that there is nothing more welcoming in home décor than sharing your passions with guests.

SHOWCASING

An integral part of the design process was to create a home to display the Laheys' art. While an open-concept plan was their objective, it conflicted somewhat with the showcasing of artwork. The solution: the wall space in the home is very contemporary and the large windows throughout create a bright, open feeling to the space. Design details exclude trim, mouldings or baseboard, with the only exception being shadow moulding. The artwork is further highlighted with a neutral colour palette, which includes maple wood on flooring and cabinetry. 

GIFTED AT WORK

Rod's talents are evident both inside the home and out, with an outdoor environment that further enhances the welcoming concept. The side yard is broken into seating areas with vibrant seat cushions and container gardens. A thoughtful approach to work and home is obvious in Rod's personal and professional demeanour, which earns him the respect he merits in Ottawa as president of Roderick Lahey Architect. His notable projects include Clarendon Lanes, Sussex House and the SoHo condos. As an ongoing sponsor for The Hospice at May Court's Homes for the Holidays tour, Rod continues to show his commitment to home and community.



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