A bright and balanced art space for a young creator

What the client wanted
This Vancouver-based family’s son has a love for arts and crafts, but an ever-growing collection of future masterpieces, games, science kits, and supplies presented a problem. They needed more functional and flexible organization — as well as a designated spot for an heirloom drafting table that’s been passed down through three generations. To craft the perfect solution, they turned to California Closets B.C. design consultant Cara Walker.

How California Closets designed it
Cara began by reviewing the family’s needs and understanding how the space should function — utilizing both accessible storage and areas for display. The room had plenty of stunning features that made standard storage less appealing. Tall ceilings, a pony wall open to the staircase above, and strategic wall vents all required careful consideration.
The final design prioritizes symmetry and clean lines. A custom unit against the pony wall matches the height of the nearby windows to create a harmonious sight line without detracting from the room’s grand height. A combination of closed cabinetry and shallow, flat drawers for sketch paper keeps supplies out of sight while open cubbies offer plenty of display space for projects. Slatted doors cleverly hide the wall vent. A precise nook for the drafting table between two custom built-ins provides a focused spot for their son’s creative pursuits.

“The final result is clean and bright — it feels like an inspirational space to create in.”
Cara Walker
Final result
Now a hub for imagination and creativity, the reimagined room is light, open, and beautifully organized. Bright white finishes bring a sense of calm while pops of green add playful whimsy; black hardware adds definitive contrast. By carefully considering the unique space, the scale of the design manages to reflect the openness of the room without overpowering it. With his input reflected in the final design, the young artist now has a room that both inspires and belongs to him.

Finishes
Classic White
Serenity
Materials
Shaker doors & drawers
Birch drawer boxes
Front mount fascia
Scribe bottom treatment & fillers with plant ons
Accessories
Elite Modern hardware in black
Countertop in Classic White
Note: Finishes and products vary by location. Inquire with your local California Closets showroom for availability.
Client
Anonymous
Location
Vancouver, Canada
Design consultant
Cara Walker
Photo credits
Hayley Hudson
