As a designer, I’m always on the hunt for inspiration in the latest issues of international décor magazines. The pages offer fashion-forward spaces with bold yet inviting palettes, designed with a flair of originality that seems to be often lost on North American principles.
When I entered the Kitsilano home of Rafaella Carvalho and Collis Verdicchio, I felt as though I walked into a page in one of these magazines. The immediate visual gratification of colour, art and personality was finished with an undeniably chic edge, while remaining approachable and warmly comfortable.
After spending just a few moments with the beautiful newlyweds – he from here, she from Brazil – the ease with which they created their space was evident: it is a personal gallery of artifacts and custom pieces that are a visual reflection of their own milestones.
While any space can be designed beautifully, a home created with love is the pinnacle of the perfect décor.
The details of the suite reflect heavily on their connection – many little references to their initials side by side, or certain pieces showcased that were a gift from one to another; their common love for art and colour also took a personal tone, as we talked through their art and collections, each piece had a story for the couple. Truly, this is one of my most favourite homes I’ve had the pleasure of being in – it is a perfectly curated artistic space that graciously invites you into the lives of your hosts.
Describe your apartment:
We live in the typical Kitsilano four-storey walk up built in the 1960s. What you give up in modern amenities you get back in decent space and solid construction.
Who are you:
I am a fashion buyer and Collis co-owns a company called Sumaq, which sells handmade Peruvian alpaca rugs.
Major selling feature:
We are lucky that our unit is the only one on the top floor, so total privacy and having no neighbours to bother.
First thing I’ve changed:
When we arrived, like most apartments, the place was just full of white walls. So the first thing we did was put up our paintings to make the apartment sing.
Feature I brag about:
I love to brag about our huge patio. The beautiful handmade chair brighting up the living room even more is also a good feature.
That one conversation piece:
All the homemade furniture we made.
The story behind the art/antiques/collectibles:
Every piece of artwork on our walls tells a story from our past. The majority of the art is from Brazil, from old movie sets, or something we made. Also, the crystal collection is a dear darling.
Downsides:
Not having an elevator and the fact that the building does not accept pets!
Neighbourhood haunts:
Rain & Shine Ice Cream, Whole Foods, Fable Restaurant, Au Comptoir Bistro, Naam.
