There’s a reason JM Design won two awards for this moody olive kitchen and marble ensuite at Project Dufferin. The earthy tones, olive cabinetry, warm gold accents, and soft marble surfaces all come together to create a really refined warmth across both spaces. No surprise this one was awarded Best Kitchen and Best Bathroom in Traditional and Transitional Design by UnCommon Ottawa. Great work, Jessica! We can’t get enough of your designs.
Project Contractors:
GC: Home Priority | @homeprioritysolutions.inc
Design & Styling: JM Design Studio | @jmdesign.studio
Custom Millwork: K. Will Cabinetry | @k.willcabinetry
Countertops: Stone Design Concepts | @stonedesignconcepts
Tile: Coco Tile | @cocotile
Banquette cushions & window treatments: @customdraperybyanniecooper
Banquette Art: Sara Alex Mullen | @saraalexmullen
Glass & Mirror: Epp Glass | @eppglassottawa
Photography: Sonia V Photography | @soniavbranding

Before we dive into the moody olive kitchen and marble ensuite, I want to give you a peek inside some of the other spaces that that couldn’t be left out. Like this laundry room, which may seem small, but was designed with functionality. There is counter space, hidden tip out laundry hampers, roll out shelving and areas for hanging or flat-dry spaces.






The powder room just off the kitchen carries through the same olive cabinetry in the vanity, tying it back to the kitchen design. A beautiful dark watercolour wallpaper sets the tone in the space, accented with gold Perrin & Rowe fixtures that help everything feel cohesive. My personal favourite is the solid oak door; you really can’t beat the quality and visual appeal of a hardwood.









Now for the stars of the show, the moody olive kitchen and marble ensuite at Project Dufferin. Starting with the kitchen, it leans into a darker palette without feeling too heavy. The oversized range wall creates a strong focal point, while the light marble countertops help balance the space. The lighting fixtures and layered styling pieces tie everything together, giving the kitchen a curated and comfortable feel.





This is probably my favourite styled space in the project. The kitchen feels clean and polished, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel minimal. Jess added so many thoughtful decor details that give the space character and make it feel lived-in.





The kitchen also includes a perfect breakfast nook with extra storage, and a great spot to gather that’s filled with so much natural light from the wooden patio doors.






In the ensuite, soft wall paneling brings some warmth against the marble flooring and marble shower. The freestanding tub anchors the room, while the mix of soft neutrals, classic details, and natural stone keeps everything feeling cohesive.






The tub was rotated to work with the original curved wall, and the shower opening was narrowed so it could have more presence. A tiled casing was also added around the shower entry to make it feel a bit more intentional in the space. With minimal layout changes, it really came down to the details, with the millwork, counters, and tile all working together.





Project Dufferin’s moody olive kitchen and marble ensuite really came together through all the layers, function, material choices, and detailing in every space. Each area was designed to feel connected while still cohesive to the other spaces in the home. It’s a great example of how careful planning and finishes can elevate everyday spaces without overcomplicating them.
June 2, 2026
Written by:
Sonia