"Each new project presents an exciting opportunity to embark on a fascinating new journey, and we as designers bring it to reality through storytelling. Interior design allows us to develop unique ideas, evoke meaningful experiences, connect different perspectives, and eventually bring them to life through construction methods."
-Lina Deng, Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
Every design has a story. From the subtle elements to overarching themes, LIV Design Studio's work was carefully crafted to communicate something to residents and guests alike, all through the lens of our TECH/DESIGN/CULTURE ethos.
Our belief is that interiors should not just serve a practical function, but offer a space that enriches life's everyday moments and ignites the passion of those within. Before so much as laying a finger on a new project, the LIV Design Studio team first works with our clients to conceive a vision that is rooted in their unique stories and aspirations. By weaving together personal history, cultural influences, and design preferences, we create interiors that not only look beautiful but also feel authentic and meaningful.
In this article, we will explore the power of storytelling in interior design and how it can transform a space from merely functional to truly impactful.
[Pictured in header: Rendering of The Piano by Concord Pacific, designed by LIV Design Studio]
The Arc Vancouver – An Ode to a new 'Vancouverism'
LIV Design Studio was presented with a unique challenge when asked to design the interiors and amenity spaces for The Arc Vancouver, a striking feat of modern architecture modelled after iconic landmarks like Paris’ L’Arc de Triomphe. Positioned directly at the north end of the Cambie Street Bridge, the focus of this vast project was to rewrite the narrative of 'Vancouverism' and define a new standard of community and urban living in this unique cosmopolitan city.
At the heart of The Arc's unique story is a grand, illuminated ceiling installation. Inspired by lantern festivals, hot air balloons and various art installations, the “Ode to Canada” ceiling is a colourful, captivating and consistent feature that looms large above all The Arc’s amenity spaces. The graphic of the illuminated ceiling changed numerous times from the initial concept to what it is now – beginning with flow & water, to geometric shapes, to the abstract maple leaf collage we see today. The LIV Design Studio team collaborated with graphic Designer Candelaria De La Losa to conceive and realize this vision.
In bringing this tale to life, the LIV Design Studio team had to find creative ways to visually expand the building's two lobbies and their natural curvature, ensuring this sprawling mural was always within view as a reminder of the project's focus. The team drew inspiration from various high-end luxury hotels in Europe to create a resort-like experience for the residents. Furniture had to be durable and timeless while conveying luxury, and wall sconces were custom designed to enhance every carefully selected design element and finish. In the end, the result was a space that encouraged community and showcased the beauty of Vancouver's skyline.
[Pictured above: The Arc Vancouver by Concord Pacific, designed by LIV Design Studio]
Concord Brentwood Hillside – Perched Atop the Trees
Perched high above the treetops, Hillside at Concord Brentwood is a place of wonder and tranquillity. With the lush greenery of the surrounding trees stretching out below, it's a place where residents can truly connect with nature in a modern, elevated residential community. LIV Design Studio was tasked with creating interiors that captured the essence of this unique setting, weaving elements of nature into every detail of this groundbreaking project's ongoing story.
With a focus on indoor-outdoor living, LIV utilized our updated Suite Standard to create timeless interiors that maximized functionality and elegance. Custom millwork and marble finishes lend an airy feel to each space, while the super-sized balconies offer stunning views of the surrounding treetops – instilling residents' everyday routines with a sense of calm and natural beauty. From the grand lobbies to the multi-purpose rooms, each space was designed to amplify the natural light and create an atmosphere of peace and serenity.
As residents move through Hillside's grand lobbies and luxurious amenity spaces, they are constantly reminded of the beauty and elegance of the natural world. The custom-designed pool table, polished stone divider, and grand piano are just a few of the refined details that bring a touch of romance to everyday life. Hillside is more than just a place to call home, it's a reminder to cultivate community and embrace moments of peace amid the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.
[Pictured here: Hillside at Concord Brentwood, designed by LIV Design Studio]
The Piano – Find Your Tempo
It is crucial to not only create a design that orchestrates beautifully as one, but also results in a space that is functional and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the project's personality and lifestyle while withstanding the test of time.
-Lina Deng, Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
Work. Play. Relax. No matter your tempo, The Piano by Concord Pacific was conceived with the notion of creating harmony in the everyday through elegant, minimal design and a central motif of musicality encompassing every detail of this urban community.
At The Piano, life is a composition in motion, a never-ending melody that weaves together work, play, and relaxation. The sleek, modern interiors of each unit are designed to create a sense of calm and serenity, with clean lines and a muted colour palette that evokes a sense of peace and tranquillity.
Throughout the residential building, the musical motif of The Piano is echoed in subtle design details, from the artfully placed grand piano in the lobby to subtle thematic details in shared spaces. Each element of the development is carefully orchestrated to create a sense of flow and balance, reflecting the creative process of musical composition and the unceasing rhythm of daily life. Whether you're seeking inspiration, relaxation, or simply a place to call home, The Piano offers a harmonious retreat in the heart of the vibrant, diverse Surrey City Centre.
[Pictured above: The Piano by Concord Pacific, designed by LIV Design Studio]
Concord Sky – Elevated Living at the Heart of Toronto
The best interior designs are those that consider the totality of the project by marrying everything together, incorporating the exterior design elements such as its shapes, materials and colours – having them flow seamlessly into the interior space.
-Lina Deng, Interior Designer at LIV Design Studio
Modern living is quite literally elevated to new heights at the upcoming Concord Sky project by Concord Adex. From the ground up to its towering heights, Concord Sky's impressive stature as one of Canada's tallest skyscrapers is matched only by the luxurious standard of living created within. While creating the ever-evolving story of this landmark project, LIV Design Studio looked to the skies above for inspiration, inspired by the open air and feelings of possibility that emerge from looking out on top of the world.
Palatial lobbies and ultra-modern design elements come together to complement the tower's stunning form, designed by world-renowned KPF Architects. LIV Design Studio was tasked with creating interiors that not only complemented the tower's stunning architecture but also celebrated its sky-high urban location. The challenge was met with a combination of custom millwork, premium finishes, and a keen eye for detail.
For materials, our designers carefully selected an assortment of sophisticated stones, marbles, light airy woods, and textured details which link together the individual suites, the incredibly spacious yet altogether welcoming lobby, and this rendering of a planned restaurant within the building's foyer. Rounded seating areas and a neutral palette throughout common spaces tie together this many-faceted project, weaving a story of easy comfort and unmatched luxury at this sky-high address.
[Pictured here: Materials palette & renderings of Concord Sky by Concord Adex, designed by LIV Design Studio]
Conclusion
LIV Design Studio views every new project as a story waiting to unfold. Drawing on both the conceptual and the practical, we seek to give form to the hopes & dreams of those who will live, work, and play within. As designers, we view space as more than just a collection of furniture and décor – rather, it's an exciting opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind experience that tells a story and evokes emotion.
With each project, we seek to tell a new tale, blending the vision of our clients and the concerns of the end user with our own TECH/DESIGN/CULTURE ethos. From the treetop setting of Hillside at Concord Brentwood to the harmonious energy of The Piano, we aim to capture the essence of each location and elevate it through timeless, elegant design.
Our passion for storytelling is at the heart of everything we do, driving us to create spaces that inspire, energize, and delight.
[Pictured here: The Arc Vancouver by Concord Pacific, designed by LIV Design Studio]
