Mason Studio is a progressive interior design atelier based in Toronto. It has quickly gained popularity by being vocal about its philosophy on humanness and its commitment to crafting meaningful spaces. Started by Ashley Rumsey and Stanley Sun back in 2010, the studio duly marries a diverse expertise that ranges from architecture and furniture design through fine arts to textile design and business. This interdisciplinary approach lets Mason Studio take on everything from boutique hospitality environments to large-format commercial developments, all with a focus on the enhancement of the human experience.
At the core of Mason Studio's practice is a belief in the transformative power of design and art. The firm seeks to "make better" in every aspect of its work, paying close attention to a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and environmental contexts of each project. By giving precedence to the research-driven process in its methodology, the team is assured it will reveal unique opportunities, adding real value when shaping either a client's vision or crafting a personal experience, and having a positive impact on the greater community. This is further cemented by Mason Studio's B Corp certification-a seal on using business as a force for good.
Co-founder and Executive Director Ashley Rumsey has been at the heart of the development of the strategic vision for the studio and its design management approach. With her background in interior design and a strong focus on collaboration, Rumsey takes the lead in a deliberate design process—one that looks at each decision in light of the end goals of the project. She leads in a manner that opens an inclusive and all-encompassing approach, bringing in the insights from the whole team to inform and enrich the creative process. But her impact doesn't stop at the firm: she is an active part of the design community in Canada and is often included in international design media.
Stanley Sun, Co-founder and Creative Director, brings a distinctive vantage point to Mason Studio informed by his formal education in human sciences, fine arts, and interior design. A mix of scientific analysis and artistic intuition epitomizes Sun's philosophy of design. He further places much emphasis on the psychological effect of light and how it dictates interaction in space. His creative approach leads to work that is not only visually striking but also sensitive to the emotional and sensory feelings of its occupants. Sun's thought leadership and expertise have been highly recognized in leading industry publications, as well as in his demand as a sought-after speaker at leading design conferences.
Mason Studio created a wide-ranging portfolio of collaborations, including Oxford Properties, Hyatt Hotels, Kimpton Hotels, and Equinox. These projects demonstrate the delivery of unorthodox yet successful design solutions by the firm that question conventional norms. The firm's design narrative is indeed continuously informed by a strong sense of cultural and physical context, with space functionally and expressively attuned to satisfy the needs of each client while reflecting the studio's overarching commitment to thoughtful design.
This continuous drive toward innovation in modern interior design comes from the combined vision of its principals and a highly skilled team. Indeed, each piece deeply captures optimism over what design can achieve in shaping a better world. As a result, Mason Studio occupies a leading role within the domestic and international industries.
