This kitchen reno includes a slick wine cellar tucked into the basement

Labelle wanted a space that was calming and restorative, opting for clean lines and warm hues.Brandon Titaro/The Globe and Mail

Lucas Labelle knows a thing or two about sophisticated design. For 16 years, he worked at Apple, starting as a part-time sales associate before managing retail locations across the Greater Toronto Area, including at Yorkdale, the Eaton Centre and Upper Canada Mall. Those bright, minimalist stores shaped his eye for detail, but when it came to designing his own home, Labelle wanted something entirely different.

“I was looking for something calming and transportive,” he says of the semi-detached home in downtown Toronto that he shares with his husband, publicist Tyler Reaume. “I was inspired by trips to California and Europe – clean lines, a neutral palette, but a lot of warmth.”

Labelle’s kitchen follows suit. It’s minimal, with integrated appliances hidden behind simple, flat-fronted cabinetry. Yet the textures are rich, from the travertine marble countertop and matching sink marked by natural pits and veins, to the off-white Venetian plaster walls, with subtle ridges that catch the light streaming through nearby French doors.

The space is the handiwork of Lucas’s sister, interior designer Montana Labelle. “I use travertine in many of my kitchens,” she says. “Some people don’t like it because it’s porous and can stain, but I think that adds a beautiful patina over time.”

Lucas agrees. “I’m so fortunate to have such a super-talented little sister,” he says. “I completely trusted her with the design, and I’m beyond happy with the results.”

A proper wine cellar was at the top of Lucas’s renovation wish list. In 2023, he left Apple and launched his own business, Labelle Wines. To find the best reds, whites and everything in between, Lucas is constantly tasting new vintages from France, Italy and beyond. “It’s an occupational hazard to always be surrounded by beautiful, fine wines,” he says with a laugh. “Before I moved into the house, I lived in an apartment and stashed my wine in various places,” he adds. “I always dreamed of having a proper wine cellar.”

"Wine is so sensitive; it’s like caring for art," Labelle says. He consulted with experts about temperature and storage for his own cellar.Brandon Titaro/The Globe and Mail

To make that dream a reality, Lucas and Montana collaborated with Rosehill Wine Cellars, a Mississauga-based company that has specialized in wine storage and display for more than 30 years. “Rosehill taught me so much,” Lucas says. “I learned about temperature, humidity, even the right angle to store bottles to avoid spoilage. Wine is so sensitive; it’s like caring for art.”

The cellar’s importance is underscored by its luxurious details – a far cry from the lime green carpet that once lined the house’s basement. The flooring, walls and shelving are crafted from white oak, reminiscent of the barrels used to age merlot. A built-in desk features a marble countertop topped with vintage earthenware that looks as though it could have come straight from Rome or Florence.

The cellar is tucked away in the basement, while the kitchen and dining area are spread across the main floor. Although it’s out of sight, it’s far from overlooked. “The cellar isn’t quite big enough to host events,” Lucas says, “but it’s a highlight of any house tour. Guests love going down to select their favourite wine for dinner.”

GET THE LOOK

All the pottery in the kitchen and the wine cellar were sourced through Montana Labelle’s eponymous lifestyle shop. Some are vintage, while others, like these Shipwreck Vases, are handmade to look as though they have been around for centuries.

From $200 through montanalabelle.com.

Lucas’ home is suffused with texture in every possible place. The Cesca dining room chairs, originally designed by architect Marcel Brauer in 1928, have caned, rattan seats and backs. The weave contrasts the slick, chrome legs.

$1,760 each through knoll.com.

The kitchen faucet is vintage, found by Montana Labelle. It’s similar, however, to the Edwardian Bridge Kitchen Faucet made in England by Perrin and Rowe and available in eight metal finishes.

Price on request through houseofrohl.ca.

Lucas not only enjoys fine wine but fine wine glasses. He uses hand-blown crystal from Austrian brand Zalto, which are both elegant and incredibly durable — despite the slender stems, they are dishwasher safe. The Universal works for reds, whites and sparkling wines.

$110 per glass through hopsongrace.com.

While the kitchen counter has an old-world patina, the built-in gas cooktop is iPhone sleek. The range and knobs are from German brand Gaggenau, as is the separate oven.

Price on request through gaggenau.com.