Meet the designers of the 2024 Minto Dream Home for CHEO

The Minto Dream Home stands as a beacon of hope, community spirit and exceptional design. All in support of the CHEO Foundation and the Dream of a Lifetime Lottery. This year’s home, the Oasis, is no different—bringing a slice of paradise to Mahogany, Manotick.

At the heart of the home is the Minto Product Development team, led by Karen van der Velden, and Tanner Vine Interiors. It’s the collaboration of two creative minds united by a singular vision: to create a stunning home that inspires the community and helps CHEO families continue to dream of a brighter future.

From Dahlia to Dream Home

Karen has been a cornerstone of the Minto Dream Home for almost 20 years. With expertise in design and architecture, her approach is to create a home that blends aesthetic appeal with practicality. As such, the Oasis is based on the 52’ Dahlia Single Family Home, which is available in our Mahogany community, a stunning home with a functional floorplan.

This year, Karen wanted to warm up the design compared to last year’s home. She wanted it to feel inviting and familiar but also reflective of the natural environment. The Oasis is located on an oversized lot backed by a multi-purpose pathway and protected green space. It speaks to her commitment to create a home that’s not only striking and beautiful but also fits in with its surroundings.

The exterior of the Oasis stems from a minimalist-inspired Belgian modern farmhouse, with Karen incorporating earthy tones and natural materials into the design. This includes green board and batten siding complemented by lighter stone elements to create a serene and welcoming façade. Karen’s introduction of a double-door front entrance, complete with a peaked roof and large wooden beams, adds a touch of luxury and cottage-like comfort.

"When I saw Tanner's work and his style, I was quite blown away. He brings a new kind of perspective to this year’s home. - Karen van der Velden, Product Development Manager, Minto Communities Ottawa

Karen’s vision didn’t stop at the exterior. Inside, she wanted every corner of the home to exude warmth and elegance. And that’s where Tanner Vine comes in, making his first appearance as interior designer of the Minto Dream Home.

The serene dream: where fashionable meets functional

This isn’t Tanner’s first time designing homes for Minto Communities Ottawa—his remarkable interior design can be seen inside the new three-Storey Astoria and Brighton Model Homes. But it is his debut working on the Minto Dream Home for CHEO.

Tanner added his fresh, innovative perspective to the Oasis, aiming to create an interior that balances beauty with functionality. To align with Karen’s vision, the colour palette Tanner chose is inspired by nature, with tones that bring tranquility and calmness into the living spaces. Wellness and relaxation played a big role in the design, too, ensuring that every room in the Oasis feels like a true sanctuary.

Tanner's excitement about being part of such a meaningful project is evident in all of his design choices. The kitchen, with its extra-large island, and light and airy feel, stands out as a dramatic centrepiece. The primary bedroom exudes a calm, pared-back elegance, but it spans the entire width of the home and includes a luxurious sitting room.

Perhaps one of the most unique features Tanner introduced is the third-floor loft, designed to function as a yoga studio by day and a tranquil guest room by night. This multifunctional space reflects Tanner’s commitment to creating a home that encourages healthy living and well-being. As does the basement, which Tanner designed as a wellness spa and activity room. From the golf simulator and the dartboard nook to the dry sauna, steam shower and cold plunge. It’s a space to unwind, have fun and stimulate self-care.

"The interior is meant to feel minimalist and serene but comfortable and familiar to people.” - Tanner Vine, Designer, Tanner Vine Interiors

To sum up the interior design of the Oasis, Tanner describes it as a blend of old-world charm and modern serenity. It has unique décor elements, like abstract lighting fixtures and local art pieces, along with stand out features such as the glass staircase and standalone fireplace in the primary bedroom. But it feels like home, a place you can relax and enjoy time well-spent with family and friends.

A collaboration rooted in community spirit

Karen and Tanner brought their individual strengths to the 2024 Minto Dream Home, but what truly makes the Oasis special is their collaboration. Together, they created a home that’s more than just a place to live—it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when creativity meets compassion.

Both designers share a deep connection to the cause behind the home, understanding that the Minto Dream Home is not just about design, it's about giving back and supporting the incredible work done by the CHEO and the CHEO Foundation.

Their shared vision for the Oasis is one of tranquility, wellness and community. The home is designed to be a peaceful retreat, a place where people feel both inspired and at ease. But beyond its walls, the Oasis is a reminder to stay hopeful and a testament to the power of togetherness and goodwill.

The Oasis is open to tour in Mahogany, Manotick, until December 13, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to experience paradise at home. Purchase your ticket for the CHEO Dream of a Lifetime Lottery before they sell out.

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