BY: Andrew Miller
PHOTOGRAPHY: Michael Chambers

Living in the heart of Toronto’s “Little Jamaica,” actress Kim Roberts has created her own island paradise. “I got this house at a really good time, just before the market went crazy,” says Roberts with a smile. “I love this neighbourhood; it’s very eclectic and every house on my street is a different nationality. I know this because I know all my neighbours by name. We’re all so very close.”

Born in Toronto, Roberts has helped create opportunities for other black Canadian actors through her groundbreaking performances. Having been a professional actor since 1991, Roberts has been involved in more than 100 projects, working with the likes of Cate Blanchett, Richard Gere and the late Heath Ledger in the Bob Dylan biopic I’m Not There.

In decorating her space, Roberts was inspired by the vast range of personalities and places she has encountered through her work.

“I love colour, and I really just wanted to let my imagination flow, so I chose colours that I liked and the house sort of evolved from there,” she says. “For me, home is really my sanctuary; as an artist you don’t go to an office every day. I could be on location filming something and not be home for weeks. Home is stability; when I walk through the door I can just breathe and relax.”

Having a keen eye for interior design, Roberts picked up many different pieces of African and Caribbean art to add to the decor. With many wood elements within her home, Roberts enjoys the look and feel of the earthy qualities that connect her to her roots.

“The wood was all original when I bought the house. I like wood. I like things that reflect the earth and bring the outside elements indoors since we’re all so far removed from that.”

Situated in her dining room area is a beautiful hand-painted red armoire. Within its doors are many vintage teapots that she’s collected.

“They’re all interesting to me: teapots are functional yet very creative; that’s what makes them special. Teapots can be funky so you get some interesting ones.”

The backyard is a favourite element of her home. With various plants adorning her fences, Roberts’ backyard looks straight out of the pages of National Geographic, providing the perfect cover for privacy. With a shaded lounge area for her guests to relax in, out of reach of the sun’s rays, Kim’s backyard is a cool slice of comfort on a hot summer’s day.

“My home reflects my love for the Caribbean. I want people to come and be comfortable and at ease when they enter my home,” says Roberts. “I also want it to be pleasing to the eye.”

Being a Canadian actor in an American market is not without its downfalls. With last year being extremely difficult for a lot of actors due to a work stoppage, many have quit the profession to focus on providing for their families by any means necessary. Smart financial planning has helped Roberts stay afloat during the slow times, but she credits her love for the artform as the reason she’s stuck with her career.

“You have to love it. The last two years our industry has been hit with a writers’ strike, then an actors’ strike and a potential Screen Actors Guild strike,” she says. “All of these situations kept work from moving forward. There’ve been a lot of actors and crew members who have had to sell their homes or change careers. But all of that seems to go with the territory. ”

Having weathered the storm, Roberts is excited about her future, and will be adding to her already stellar resumŽ by starring in VisionTV’s new drama series SOUL.

“I love what I do and I get to do it for a living,” she says. “I’m extremely grateful and blessed.”

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