After a decade of hosting shows on HGTV Canada and working in construction for many years before that, I have had the pleasure of seeing a great deal of homes and other spaces transform. When asked to choose my favourite rooms I’ve ever worked on, it was difficult to narrow down such a vast number of spaces. However, after much deliberation, here are my top 10 renovations of all time.
Bryan Baeumler is one of HGTV Canada’s go-to contractors and the host of Bryan Inc., House of Bryan and Leave it to Bryan.
Living Room at Highview: Bryan Inc.
This fireplace! As you saw on Bryan Inc., this was a beast of a job, but look at the final result. The fireplace and the seating area around it are perfect in my eyes. So clean, simple and elegant, and sitting in front of the roaring fire brings back many great memories.
Kitchen at Highview: Bryan Inc.
This kitchen renovation wasn’t a massively difficult one, but Sarah and I couldn’t have pulled it off any better. I love the layout of the space, and the kitchen epitomizes the look and feel of the house overall. Even better: The owners love it too! (Here’s a look back at the entire home).
Garage Brewery: Leave it to Bryan (Season 7)
This space was so cool. The couple wanted to give their garage a complete overhaul, and due to their interest in brewing, they asked for it to be kitted out with all the necessary equipment. I had never done a project like this before, and it was exciting to be part of something different. I loved the end result, and it sticks out as one of the more demanding rooms I’ve helped design.
Great Room: House of Bryan (Season 2)
This room has everything. I think Sarah and I nailed this space. The way that it’s so open yet still functional is great. The long bench for those family meals was something I really wanted, too. The small lounge area to watch TV when dinner is done and the spacious nearby kitchen really make for a beautiful living space. Going to miss this spot!
Timber Frame Deck: House of Bryan (Season 2)
This deck was a huge task, but I was determined to make it as awesome as it turned out. Structurally, it was a really challenging build and there were many obstacles in our way. But it was totally worth it. Those early evenings sitting and looking out at the water are some of my favourite memories from this cottage. Here’s a look back at the space.
Timber Frame Entrance: House of Bryan (Season 3)
When designing the entrance for our current home, I was determined to use natural wood. I felt it would complement the stone and tie into the home’s natural surroundings. It’s always important to reference the nearby environment, and I was happy with my decision to use timber to frame the entrance. I still love seeing it every day!
Indoor Pool: House of Bryan (Season 3)
Our home’s indoor pool is one of my favourite spaces. We created it after the cameras left, and it was only finished this year. I have always dreamt of my children enjoying a beautiful pool, and I’m lucky to have been able to build it for them. Sarah and her design team made it look stunning, and although it was a lot of work, I’m so happy with the final result.
Master Shower: House of Bryan (Season 3)
Saving one of the best till last! This shower makes getting out of bed so much easier. Sarah surprised me with all the latest mod cons when we were designing our ensuite shower, and I still can’t get enough of it. (Here’s a round-up of other bathroom renos I’ve done through the years).
Bar: House of Bryan (Season 3)
The bar I installed in our current home was certainly a space where I could add a little of myself. I really enjoy concocting cocktails and pouring our guests drinks from this bar. It was fun designing this spot and adding all the modern design elements.
The Doghouse: House of Bryan (Season 3)
The piece de resistance! This is my favourite place. My haven, my paradise! I might be going a little far here, but I do love my workshop barn. The space is so versatile and allows me to work on projects without disrupting the family home. My kids love it too, and it has become a place where we congregate, especially during the summer months.
Putting this list together has been a lot of fun. I’ve made so many great memories over the years and it was nice to look back on the work I’ve done and reflect on it all. I hope you enjoyed it, too!
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