Meet Rebecca Hay, Toronto-based Interior Designer and President & Principal Designer of Rebecca Hay Designs. Rebecca Hay Designs has a diverse portfolio, ranging from luxurious private residences to large scale commercial spaces. With a focus on craftsmanship, Rebecca and her team create, renovate and decorate beautiful, cohesive & uniquely personalized interiors. We sat down with Rebecca to learn more about what inspires her designs and her favourite rug styles.  

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How do you define your interior design style?

Classic and Curated. I love a good blend of traditional bones with contemporary lines. Antiques and vintage finds add character to a space. But I'm also all about function-first design. If a space doesn't function then what's the point. But it's truly the details that elevate any space in my opinion. Like baseboard and crown molding and door hardware - these are the small details that can sometimes get overlooked. I LOVE to work with colour. Pops of colour in every room makes me smile.

 

What inspires your designs?

Usually, I am inspired when I travel.. but I haven't done much of that in the last few years! Lately, I've been inspired by nature, the country, and anything with a nod to nature whether it's a crisp clear blue sky or a dusty country road surrounded by hay fields. I think there is a collective desire for more natural products and warm and inviting homes these days and nature is the perfect muse.

 

Why did you decide to get into design?

I loved design from an early age and grew up around my mom's cousins the Dirsteins who would help us with our own home. I always loved the finer things in life as a result haha. But mostly I've always been someone who relishes in experiences and I saw how your surroundings affect your mood. Whether in a restaurant with dim and cozy lighting or a living room with exquisite and elegant drapery. You can create an atmosphere simply by switching out the decor. At first, I followed other passions though, taking the expected route doing a bachelor's degree at McGill followed by European travels and then eventually pursuing a career as an actor out west but ultimately all paths lead me back to school for interior design. I love that I get to be creative every day and help others feel joy in their homes.

 

What's your favourite area rug style?

I love a good sisal or wool Berber area rug. I think broadloom cut to size is a classic look and works with any space old or new. I especially love 100% wool as it's easy to clean, which matters when you have little kids running around like I do!

 

To learn more about what Rebecca Hay is up to and the services she offers, please visit her website at rebeccahaydesigns.com.