BDA Spotlight: Sam Tibs Studio
Meet the winning studio of this year’s Best in Design Award for Emerging Talent
New kid on the block Sam Tibshirani, founder of Sam Tibs Studio, won over our jury for her take on small-space living through the transformation of a dark, dated basement apartment into a beautifully functional home. This 2025 Emerging Talent winner has earned Tibshirani the Best in Design Award and our spotlight as a rising star in the local design scene.
The 600-square-foot basement apartment in Toronto’s east end began as a challenge: an uninspired, water-damaged space with barely eight feet of headroom, limited natural light and outdated fixtures. Tibshirani saw potential where others might see limitations, approaching the renovation as a puzzle to solve. Her design ingenuity turned this previously underwhelming space into a cohesive home that is as stylish as it is practical.
To be recognized as an emerging talent is a reflection of the many years I’ve spent coveting this career and studying in my own way to join the ranks of the great design community in Toronto. I would hope that my receipt of this award is proof that taking a winding path to this career is not only possible, but it may become the thing that sets you apart. Sam Tibshirani Principal Designer, Sam Tibs Studio
One of Tibshirani’s standout achievements in the project was reworking the space plan to prioritize livability. By removing a poorly placed kitchen island that dominated the main area, she created a more open flow between the kitchen, dining and living spaces. Custom millwork and clever storage solutions, including a hidden under-stairs storage area accessed by a jib door, maximize functionality without compromising aesthetics.
The expanded bathroom is another major feature. Tibshirani replaced the dark shower stall with a tub-shower combo framed by a tiled ledge that provides ample storage while cleverly concealing the toilet from immediate view. A scalloped vanity, brass fixtures, and a custom corner shower rod add whimsy and charm.
This designer’s thoughtful approach is evident in every corner, from the ceiling-mounted microwave in the kitchen—an ingenious solution for small spaces—to the dimmable under-cabinet lighting that creates a cozy ambiance. In the living area, millwork integrates seamlessly with the space, including a custom TV bench that conceals cables and outlets for a polished look.
With this project, Sam Tibshirani has proven herself as a designer with an eye for detail, a knack for innovation, and an ability to turn challenges into opportunities. The transformation of this basement into a warm, highly functional home is a testament to her talent and marks her as a promising force as our 2025 Emerging Talent winner.