My First Home: Alykhan Velji, designer extraordinaire

Calgary-based designer Alykhan Velji is partial to mid-century modern design. So when he and his now-husband, Jason Krell, were scouring the MLS® System listings for their first home, it was a given that the couple would jump on a four-level, mid-century modern gem in Chinook Park.

That was 10 years ago.

"As soon as we saw the listing, we knew that we had to go and take a look," said Velji. "I am a mid-century fanatic and you don't see homes like this pop up very often in Calgary, especially at the price point we bought it for."

The couple was attracted to the home's wood-burning fireplace and large yard. Plus, the unique floor plan was "perfect for entertaining."

However, some renovations were in order.

An initial spiff consisted of staining the oak hardwood flooring a dark espresso and painting every wall in white to set the tone and create a neutral backdrop.

"A home should be filled with pieces that you love and that speak to you and your personality."

Each room in the home was then renovated in stages. This process gave the couple time to acquaint themselves with each space, learn how they lived and moved through it, how the light shone, and which areas they gravitated towards.

"It allowed us to figure out the best use for each space and save money for each renovation stage," said Velji.

Never one to shy away from colour or bold design elements, Velji then layered on textures and hues.

It starts with the front door, a punchy shade of yellow that says hello and welcome in one glance.

Inside, the home is filled with statement pieces. These include items lovingly collected from the couple's travels and even a touch here and there of Velji's signature furnishing line, Modern India.

"A home should be filled with pieces that you love and that speak to you and your personality," said Velji.

Coupled with global prints and pops of colourful art, hits of marble, wood, natural stone and metal tie each room of the home together, creating a warm, inviting and timeless vibe with an edgy and fun twist.

The final element on the refresh list was the outdoor space, a transformation that involved ample decking and lots of greenery.

"The home is definitely a reflection of Jason and I," said Velji. "We love it. I don't think that we will ever be able to let go of it."