While many in-residence workspaces echo their functional but drab corporate counterparts, Shereen knew that her distinction as an up-and-coming jewellery designer demanded more. She called on her long-time friend, designer Nancy Riesco of Riesco & Lapres Interior Design, to create a happy working environment full of energy – and one that could work as a cosy guest room as well. 

“It all started with the paint colours,” recalls Shereen, who opted for two-toned walls in cloud white and vivid bubble-gum pink. “We get a lot of grey days in Vancouver, so it’s important for me to keep the house bright. I wanted this room to be a bit more girlie than the rest, so I chose pink!”

Reading corner
A big, bright window illuminates this cozy little reading nook during the day, while Jieldé’s iconic articulating floor lamp in bold yellow beams in brightness after dark. It is an inviting lighting option. The white slipcovered armchair was purchased from a friend, and all of the room’s artwork was repurposed from other areas of the house – a smart way to declutter and stay on budget while creating a feminine home office.
Stylish storage
In her office, homeowner Shereen de Rousseau needed easy access to files, books and supplies. (Most of her flirty jewellery’s design and creation are done in the studio, so here only her ideas come to life.) The cubby-style shelving system keeps everything organized in this small space, and most-used supplies are kept conveniently at hand in orange desk drawers that match the phone. The pink and white Tulip armchair was a gift from friend and designer Nancy Riesco.
Retro
This retro Model 500-style phone in bright, juicy Tangerine Tango is a souvenir from a trip to Seattle. Best of all, it’s totally functional!
Inspiration board
Resting on the desk is an inspiration board fashioned from a shabby chic distressed window frame fitted with a corkboard. It’s where Shereen collages family photos, favourite clippings and new design concepts.
Guest bedroom
On Nancy’s advice, Shereen painted only the lower half of the wall pink, pairing the impact of the colour on each wall with white to soften the effect. The same rule was applied to the bedding: lively mixed prints in the accent throw pillows and blanket are tempered by simple white linens. The rustic wrought-iron bed and quirky garden gnome nightstand bring a whimsical feel to the space.
Throw pillows
The confectionary-coloured consistency of the bright, bold, saturated hues creates harmony out of a mishmash of accessories from various styles and design eras, from shabby chic to Mid-Century Modern.
Home decor accessories
Vibrant home office accessories, from coloured-glass vases to a tiny yellow clock, shine in every candy colour of the Skittles rainbow.