"The objective was to design a home that had a traditional feel interspersed with contemporary touches," he says of the 2,600 sq. ft. two-storey show home. "We really paid attention to the layout of the home -- although it's largely open-concept, still wanted the different spaces to be distinct."

"That's due to a bank of windows on the far walls of both the great room and kitchen," [Jason Arlt] explains. "There's also a large vertical window in the dining room to add even more light. The area is also brighter than normal because we didn't go with overly dark colours; the maple floors are a medium-dark stain, and the walls are a lighter colour, using beiges and taupes (along with white) for some subtle contrast."

"The woodwork and kitchen cabinets are lighter to go with the stainless steel appliances ¬ -- the wood is darker, but not overpowering. That way, when you go with different, contrasting materials, you get the best of both worlds -- a space that's bright and warm, and contemporary," he says. "People also love the cream-coloured cabinets and island with grey/black granite, too. The counters are black granite."