314
Current Issue

Jan/Feb 2026

#314
Jan/Feb 2026

The AZURE Houses issue returns in 2026 with stunning, innovative residential projects from Canada and around the world. Plus, we take a look at that seeming relic of the past: the mall.

On the shore of Lake Ontario in downtown Toronto, the eye is intuitively drawn to the water. Up above the street, condos with unobstructed south-facing views from the city’s growing skyline fetch a substantial premium, their residential interiors framed by sparkling blue. For interior designers, this rarefied context is both a blessing and a challenge. Given raw spaces already defined by natural splendour, how can design respond? In one such condominium, Iman Lalji of Designed by Iman has delivered an understated yet elevated renovation that celebrates the home’s relationship to the water while carving out a refined sense of place.

The spacious 140-square-metre condominium is anchored by an open kitchen. Here, Lalji’s embrace of richly veined marble complements the lake’s fluid waves with a stone bookend. Light wood floors and oak cabinetry quietly amplify the marble’s warm tones. Remarkably, appliances seamlessly extend the tranquil ambiance. Lalji’s carefully layered shades of grey elegantly tie in with the stainless-steel Bosch wall ovens, ensuring a balanced and sophisticated setting.

A stack of ovens from Bosch Appliances are shown in a Toronto kitchen with a curving island topped in marble and clad in large wooden dowels. Above it is a paper pendant light.
The kitchen is designed with a carefully honed balance of tones and surfaces, creating a coherent and pleasantly organic ambiance that seamlessly integrates Bosch appliances.

“To create cohesion, we layered soft, natural tones with dynamic accents,” says Lalji. “A sculptural pendant light mimics the movement of waves, while black and gold finishes ground the space and add contrast. Functional, tech-forward appliances seamlessly integrate into the design, supporting the homeowners’ lifestyle without interrupting the aesthetic flow.” Lalji’s attention to detail is further evidenced by fluted wood finishes and ceiling-mounted open shelving, adding texture and warmth. The selection of Bosch appliances, known for their precision and elegance, reflects the kitchen’s stylish yet decidedly functional quality.

“Bosch offered the ideal balance of value, performance and aesthetics,” says Lalji. “The clients were looking for a trusted, serviceable brand — and Bosch’s modern, minimalist look fit beautifully with the kitchen’s clean design. In particular, the Bosch 800 Series Combination Oven 30″ stood out for its large capacity, Wi-Fi capability and multi-functionality.” As Lalji puts it, Bosch offered “smart technology that simplified everyday use without compromising on design aesthetics.”

And while the oven’s user-friendly interface and self-cleaning technology were also important factors, it’s design that ultimately sets Bosch apart. “The matte finish, streamlined handles and intuitive touch screens all contribute to a cohesive and refined look,” says Lalji. “The appliances don’t just blend in — they enhance the space by complementing the surrounding materials and cabinetry.”

The result is a home that embraces its waterfront locale in high style. “I wanted to echo the serenity and fluidity of water throughout the interior — using soft blues, curved lines and natural textures to bring the calming essence of the harbour indoors,” says Lalji. In other words, the kitchen is almost as appealing as the view to the south.

This content was published by Azure on behalf of Bosch Canada.

Bosch Appliances Lend a Helping Hand to a Lakeside Toronto Kitchen

Designer Iman Lalji unveils a kitchen that celebrates Lake Ontario’s soothing presence, with an assist from Bosch appliances.

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#314
Jan/Feb 2026

The AZURE Houses issue returns in 2026 with stunning, innovative residential projects from Canada and around the world. Plus, we take a look at that seeming relic of the past: the mall.