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Inside Montana Burnett's Moody Toronto Sanctuary: A Design Masterclass

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  Published in House and Home on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 11:33 GMT by House & Home

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Embracing Shadow & Soul: Inside Designer Montana Burnett's Moody Toronto Sanctuary

Toronto-based interior designer Montana Burnett is known for her sophisticated yet lived-in aesthetic – a blend of vintage finds, rich textures, and an unapologetic embrace of darker tones. Her own home, recently showcased in House & Home, perfectly embodies this philosophy, offering a masterclass in creating a space that feels both deeply personal and undeniably stylish. It's not just a beautiful interior; it’s a carefully curated expression of Burnett’s personality and design sensibilities.

The article details how Burnett, principal of Montana Burnett Interiors (and previously a partner at the firm Klara Design – see [ https://montanaburnett.com/about/ ]), approached her own home renovation with a distinct vision: to move away from the ubiquitous bright and airy aesthetic that often dominates Toronto interiors, and instead cultivate an atmosphere of warmth, intimacy, and quiet luxury. She wanted a space that felt like a refuge, a place where she could truly relax and recharge.

A Palette of Depth & Texture:

The defining characteristic of Burnett’s home is its moody color palette. Forget crisp whites and pale grays; here, deep greens (like the striking Farrow & Ball "Green Smoke" on the living room walls - see [ https://www.farrow-and-ball.com/en-ca/colors/green-smoke ]), charcoal blacks, and earthy browns dominate. This isn't a gloomy or depressing space, however. Burnett expertly balances the darkness with layers of texture – plush velvet upholstery, nubby rugs, antique wood finishes, and strategically placed lighting create visual interest and prevent the rooms from feeling flat. The effect is enveloping and comforting, drawing you in rather than pushing you away.

The kitchen exemplifies this approach. Rather than opting for a stark modern design, Burnett embraced dark cabinetry (a custom shade she calls “Black Forest” – see [ https://montanaburnett.com/projects/ ] for other examples of her work), paired with warm brass hardware and honed marble countertops. The use of natural materials adds a tactile element, while the carefully chosen lighting fixtures (including vintage pendants) soften the overall feel. It's a kitchen that feels both functional and inviting – a space you’d genuinely want to spend time in.

Vintage Treasures & Considered Collections:

Burnett is clearly passionate about collecting antiques and vintage pieces. Her home is filled with carefully sourced finds, each carrying its own story and adding character to the overall design. From antique mirrors and ornate lamps to unique artwork and quirky ceramics, these objects aren’t just decorative elements; they are integral parts of the narrative she's creating within her space. The article highlights a particularly striking collection of vintage botanical prints that add a touch of whimsy and personality to one wall.

The layering of textiles is another key element of Burnett’s design philosophy. She mixes patterns and textures with abandon, combining antique rugs with contemporary cushions, and incorporating both natural fibers like linen and wool with luxurious materials like velvet and silk. This creates a sense of depth and visual richness that elevates the space beyond a simple aesthetic.

Architecture & Flow:

The original architecture of the Victorian semi-detached house played a significant role in shaping Burnett's design choices. She worked to preserve and highlight the home’s inherent character, embracing features like exposed brick walls and original mouldings. The layout was also carefully considered to create a sense of flow and connection between rooms while maintaining distinct zones for different activities.

The living room, with its dramatic green walls and cozy fireplace, is undoubtedly the heart of the home. A large sectional sofa provides ample seating for entertaining, while strategically placed armchairs and ottomans offer additional comfort. The arrangement encourages conversation and creates a welcoming atmosphere.

Lighting as Atmosphere:

Burnett understands the power of lighting to transform a space. She layers different types of light – ambient, task, and accent – to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Dimmer switches are used throughout the house, allowing her to adjust the mood depending on the time of day or occasion. The strategic placement of lamps and sconces highlights artwork and architectural details while casting a soft glow across the rooms.

More Than Just Decoration:

Ultimately, Montana Burnett’s home is more than just a beautifully decorated space; it's a reflection of her personal style and design philosophy. It demonstrates that creating a truly beautiful home doesn't require adhering to trends or sacrificing personality. By embracing darkness, layering textures, incorporating vintage finds, and paying careful attention to detail, Burnett has created a sanctuary that is both stylish and deeply comforting – a testament to the power of thoughtful design. The article emphasizes that her approach isn’t about following rules but about creating a space that feels authentic and true to oneself, a lesson applicable to anyone looking to personalize their own home.

The House & Home feature serves as an inspiring example of how to create a home that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant – a place where you truly feel at ease. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful spaces are those that dare to embrace the shadows.