Designers Margit Hefele and Marlene Makowka
Discuss the Interior Design of Renaissance

"First impressions are lasting impressions." This is the first rule that motivates interior designers Margit Hefele and Marlene Makowka to create their exemplary and inspiring interior designs. Continuing its successful collaboration with Tridel, Hefele Markowka Design Associates Inc. has once again captured the tastes and desires of sophisticated condominium purchasers with an extraordinary design that is intimate, comfortable and classic, yet balanced with contemporary elements.

"The interior design of Renaissance will reflect the history and remarkable character of the surrounding heritage neighbourhood," states Marlene, "…and incorporate its traditional charms with a complementary and contemporary influence using the finest materials and practices that are available today." Margit, Marlene’s colleague of 20 years, adds –"Bringing the outside in-is crucial…" Marlene’s idea of "a grand interior design connecting seamlessly with the rich exterior detailing and landscaping" harmonizes with Margit’s desire to create "pleasing and comfortable common area spaces that are true extensions of the residents’ homes rather than just being through-fares to them."

The Hefele Markowka vision begins with making a grand entrance. "The lobby’s balance of classic finishes and old world style is conveyed over two levels with a weather-protected lower level resident entry and a street level ceremonial entrance for visiting guests. The elegant clean lines, spaciousness and superior detailing will confer permanence and stateliness at every sightline, and visitors arriving in the lobby will make an immediate and private connection with the Concierge", remarks Marlene. "The lobby will draw upon abundant natural light to humanize the space and make it inviting," she adds. A dramatic coffered ceiling with intricate scalloped mouldings, indirect valance lighting, grand chandelier and a stone mantle-adorned fireplace will enrich the ambience of the upper levelseating lounge. Imported Italian porcelain tile - beautiful and durable - will extend throughout the lobby, completed with stone tile inserts and border.

Margit notes, "The lobby walls will be finished with upholstered fabric panels, framed by rich wood trim and complemented by light wood paneling with dark borders and pilasters enhanced by delicate wall sconces providing warm lighting accents. A Chateau-style staircase will sweep along the lobby’s perimeter, set off by four imposing wood columns - affording wonderful views from the upper level to the lower level seating lounge, Concierge station and entrance."

Marlene states that transitional spaces, which she refers to as ‘jewel boxes’, "break up the lines of hallways and large rooms allowing these niche spaces to be special on their own. We address any space that is a vista in a unique and eye-arresting way." The foyer of the Party Room is such a space. Splendid French doors will open to a bordered parquet floor underneath a dramatic barrel vaulted and intricately coffered ceiling. Through an impressive archway entry, one enters the media lounge, well appointed with a widescreen plasma television, surround sound and comfortable sofas. A granite-faced fireplace encased by dark wood radiates warmth and comfort. Sconces, on a raised-wood paneled wall, will flank the fireplace, while six striking mirrors are inset above the mantle," Margit says.

To the other side of the foyer, is a classically styled bar area with dark wood paneling and granite countertop. Glass shelves, mirrored and backlit, adorn the rear wall. In behind, a fully equipped caterer’s kitchen stands ready for special occasions. "The area will project a clean look with a traditional twist. Soft and fluid lines will contrast with the layout’s strong geometry," says Marlene. The Party Room promenades to a large landscaped garden terrace via glass French doors. The fitness club will be awash with sunlight and house an impressive state-of-the art array of equipment, change rooms, conveniences and indulgent steam rooms.

The interior design of Renaissance, built upon Tridel’s ‘Naturally Better’ green building initiative of environmentally sustainable building design and high performance, is critical to Tridel’s pursuit of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Development) certification. To this end, Margit and Marlene use sustainable design practices to offer energy efficient, healthy, and comfortable interior environments. "We have carefully selected environmentally preferable materials and finishes such as low emitting natural or recycled wall coverings, paints, carpets and woods to minimize toxic odours, energy saving compact fluorescent lighting, and water saving plumbing fixtures, sourced locally, whenever possible."

"Warm, welcoming and inviting," intones Margit, "that’s the atmosphere that we imagine in this eloquent setting." It is a notion well suited to the uncommon luxury and unrivaled space that is Renaissance of Richmond Hill.