Stepping into Lori Morris’ World: Where Fearless Design Meets Old-World Grandeur

Winner interviews

February 13, 2025

Stepping into Lori Morris’ World: Where Fearless Design Meets Old-World Grandeur

Project Spotlight: Palace Deluxe

Inside Palace Deluxe

“Palace Deluxe” transforms what it means to live in luxury. Spanning over 19,679 square feet and boasting five bedrooms, this Toronto-based residence by Lori Morris Design captures an Old-World timeless elegance married with modern touches. Elaborate finishes, bespoke craftsmanship, and carefully curated details converge to form a grand haven of sophistication. Every inch of this architectural masterpiece is a reflection of Lori Morris’ bold innovation—a vision that embraces each client’s desires and elevates every room into a truly unique experience.

Interview with Lori Morris

Lori Morris

1. You’ve mentioned an early fascination with creativity. How did that lead you into interior design?

Lori Morris: I’ve always been a creative person, viewing the world through a different lens. As a child, I loved doodling, redecorating rooms with my mother, and collecting vintage items. It felt normal to me, and I assumed everyone thought this way. After university, I realized I wanted a career that embraced my artistic DNA. Over 40 years ago, the interior design industry was small, especially for women, but I was fearless—probably because I was young and didn’t know what I was getting into. It was incredibly challenging, with countless hurdles, but I learned and grew at every milestone, eventually finding my place in the field.

2. “Palace Deluxe” is the winner in Residential Interior Design category. Could you share the initial brief and your vision for this project?

Lori Morris: The clients wanted a classic English country style, reminiscent of a Ralph Lauren flagship in Manhattan, but with a twist of pink floral motifs. I essentially gathered all those inspirations—English country warmth, the sophisticated flair of Ralph Lauren, and a dash of sensual French “LMD”—and shook them up like a cocktail. The result is an immersive environment that fuses tradition with a provocative, luxurious edge.

3. This project spans an impressive 19,679 square feet. How did you address the design challenges, both structural and aesthetic?

Lori Morris: Our task was to ensure the interior looked as authentic as the stately exterior while delivering exactly what the client desired. Of course, challenges always arise—like ductwork that isn’t ideally placed or complex second-floor dormers. We had to integrate those architectural nuances without compromising the design. Being solution-oriented, we adapted, reconfigured, and refined every detail. In the end, we blended the client’s vision with our creative approach, yielding a masterpiece that feels cohesive and elevated.

4. You’ve built a career on being “fearless and creative.” How does that philosophy shape your design process?

Lori Morris: For me, there are no rules—only fundamentals like proportion, functionality, and form. Once those are in place, the design can go anywhere. I don’t ask if something will “work.” I explore possibilities that ignite my imagination, paired with the client’s wishes. That synergy creates a one-of-a-kind, timeless result every time.

5. You’ve worked on a wide range of high-profile projects. Is there a particular one that stands out as a personal favorite?

Lori Morris: It’s tough to pick. Over the past decade or so, we’ve crafted so many stunning homes, each with unique rooms, details, and storylines that resonate with me. Every project has moments that truly capture my heart. Each one feels groundbreaking in its own way.

6. How do you keep your designs fresh and stay ahead of emerging trends?

Lori Morris: I’m a highly artistic person, so I draw inspiration from everywhere—graphics, packaging, architecture, fashion, music. I don’t deliberately chase trends; it’s more that I stay immersed in what’s happening in the world around me. By remaining current, these influences naturally filter into my work in ways that feel authentic and new.

7. Could you share how you continue to develop your skills as a designer, especially given your decades of experience?

Lori Morris: For me, growth never stops. Nature, architecture, new materials, and evolving technologies all serve as catalysts. Every day, I learn about fresh applications or innovative materials that weren’t possible 10 or 20 years ago. Discovering something new can spark an entirely different concept. As an artistic, creative individual, I constantly absorb these developments, pushing the boundaries of what we can do.

8. Many designers struggle to balance their personal style with client desires. What’s your approach?

Lori Morris: My clients’ needs always come first. At the House of LMD, we have the bandwidth to work in any style—contemporary, classic, transitional, or something in between. Once we grasp the client’s vision, we reverse-engineer the design to match it. That’s where I add my magic—my bold, signature flair that layers excitement and personality onto a solid foundation of elegance.

9. Over your long-standing career, which lessons have proven most crucial to your success?

Lori Morris: One of the biggest lessons is to trust your instinct while remaining flexible. Fearlessness got me through the early years, and over time, practicality and expertise blended into that fearless spirit. Challenges come in all shapes—structural constraints, client requests, or budget limitations. You solve them one by one, never losing that fearless creativity that defines your brand.

10. Finally, how does it feel to have “Palace Deluxe” recognized by the INT Interior Design Awards?

Lori Morris: It’s both humbling and incredibly rewarding to receive such a prestigious honor. Being acknowledged by peers and industry professionals validates the passion and hard work behind our designs. It confirms that our approach resonates—both aesthetically and functionally—and encourages us to keep pushing boundaries in the future.

Where Elegance Meets Fearlessness: Reflections on Palace Deluxe

In “Palace Deluxe,” Lori Morris marries timeless elegance with unabashed creativity, delivering a space that reflects her no-rules philosophy while honoring the client’s distinct style. Each detail—from the English country notes to the Ralph Lauren-inspired grandeur—exudes luxury and originality. Recognized by the INT Awards, Lori Morris Design continues to rewrite the script on what’s possible in residential interiors, forging a design language that’s boldly individual yet profoundly inviting.

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Check out other inspiring projects:
INT Interior Design Awards Winners
Interviews:
Past INT Winners
Lori Morris Design:
Official Website

Winner interviews