At Attard Construction, we know the importance of good design. Not only does great interior design increase the value of your home, but it also allows you to make the most of the space you have. And above all else, aesthetics are important—if you love how your home looks, odds are you will be happier.

We’re turning the spotlight onto the talented designers we work with to create beautiful homes and condos for our clients.

First up, Sandra Cross of Sandra Cross Interiors. Known for her love of colour and beautiful fabrics, Sandra weaves the two together to add layers of texture, pattern and depth to every space she designs.

Rock & Roll Basement Project | Designer: Sandra Cross | Contractor: Attard Construction | Photographer: Stephani Buchman Photography

Tell us about your journey to becoming an interior designer?

Interestingly enough, it all started with my passion for fashion design and clothing. I was an excellent sewer when I was younger and I loved looking at and feeling bolts of beautiful fabrics in different patterns and colours and imagining how I could use them.

I was fortunate to grow up with a mother who had a good sense of style—she dressed well and dressed her children well—and we lived in lovely homes. These experiences helped me realize that fashion and interior design are close cousins and, after completing a history degree, I decided to pursue a career in residential interior design and decorating.

How would you define your design aesthetic?

I like to think of my homes as being well dressed.

My design style is contemporary, fresh, and happy but always elegant and tailored. I always have a pattern in a room whether it is on drapes, toss cushions, wallpaper or an entire chair. And while neutral is a perennial design favourite, I like a home with more colour used throughout.

What inspires this contemporary yet elegant style?

Fashion, history, architecture, books, travel and my friends and family continually inspire me and always introduce me to new ideas and concepts.

Change inspires me.

Also, in every home I have ever worked on I always find the inspiration for the design in something my clients own. I had one client who loved antiques—they were amazing collectors with some beautiful pieces. Their set of beautiful yellow and grey fine china became the inspiration for their new kitchen.

What is the design mistake you wish people would stop making?

Of course, the obvious answer is not hiring a designer!

However, I often see people buy furniture that is either too big or too small for their space and they don’t invest in good quality pieces that will last for many years. It is a costly mistake.

What design trend or element are you most excited about at the moment?

After years of a neutral palate dominating the design world, I am very excited to see colour being embraced again. I am also excited to see people embracing an eclectic approach to design by mixing period pieces into a modern design and following their unique style with confidence.

What are you working on right now?

I am working on a main floor and kitchen renovation for a wonderful family. This project has involved moving walls, adding a modern glass garden door, adding a new kitchen and modern family room built-ins and so much more.

The clients have been open to new ideas and aren’t afraid to embrace my design—my favourite kind of clients! I can’t wait to finish it and have it photographed.

What is your favourite element from the latest project you worked with Attard Construction on?

I designed a coffered ceiling for a kitchen with high gloss beadboard in the coffered areas. It will be beautiful and I was so thankful that Attard Construction understood the design concept and worked with me to get the details and layout just right. They are a great company to work with and I am always impressed with their attention to detail and the depth of knowledge they bring to every project.

Sandra specializes in residential interiors and has worked with clients in Toronto, Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, Erin, Glen Williams, and Port Hope. Her design firm, Sandra Cross Interiors Inc., is a multiple national award winning residential design firm.

Visit Sandra Cross Interiors to learn more!

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Designer Spotlight — Sandra Cross