The view from the front door is carefully composed, drawing visitors inwards and welcoming you home.

The entry foyer is reminiscent of a traditional japanese genkan, the zone where one’s shoes are removed, one step lower than the main house. Shoes can be stored discreetly under the floating millwork.

Part height millwork floats in the space to define an entry-way, provide storage, and frame views into the rooms beyond. The millwork, along with a changes in flooring material, and in elevation, mark the foyer as distinct from the rest of the house.

An old wood box sits upon a metal plinth, framed between delicate wood and metal screens. A bittersweet treasure from Mark’s ancestors’ time in the internment camps of B.C. through the second world war, the box sits in a sacred place at the heart of the home.

The living room is flooded with natural light. Carefully curated floating shelves display a collection of objects within two niches carved from the wall.

Within a relatively compact living room, a variety of activities are accommodated by a uniquely curved upholstered seat that lines three walls - its depth varies to allow for: conversations, music listening, lounging, reading, napping, etc.

The living room at the front of the house is divided from the kitchen and dining rooms at the back by a central zone defined by a charcoal grey mass containing the stairs and the family’s special wood box.

The powder room is tucked beside the stairs, and lit with hidden cove lights, meant to give a warm, soft glow. The floor tile that folds up the wall, washed with a warm glow it becomes an architectural night-light as you head up to bed.

Instead of a mirror in front of the sink that displays one’s own image, an intricate mosaic tile takes the spotlight and the mirror is angled to the right, allowing a quick peek to check one’s hair or makeup.

The dining room is sunken one step to create a sense of comforting enclosure, bounded by a modern interpretation of a traditional shoji screen. A change in wood flooring pattern marks the room as distinct, the herringbone texture reminiscent of customary woven tatami mats.

A custom bar unit straddles the change in elevation to display liquor and barware and provide storage for table settings & dinnerware.

Throughout the home, there is an elegance and refinement in the details that reflects a Japanese sensbility - valuing things of quality and eliminating everything else.

The wood and steel screens glow in the evening; when illuminated from one side the steel spacer rods cast a random spattering of soft shadows across the white oak slats.

The kitchen palette is restrained; white cabinets and white oak flooring allows two green accents to be the features that grab one’s attention. At the end, a black sliding door frames views of the verdant yard beyond, and to the left, a vibrant green feature backsplash tile stretches to the ceiling. Opposite, a wall of cabinets houses an appliance garage and plenty of pantry storage.

The kitchen is laid out to be comfortable for two people to cook simultaneously. A wide gas range is integrated in the island with a discreet downdraft hood.

Throughout the home, materials are sensually combined and lighting is thoughtfully considered.

A custom mural spirals up and down beside the stairs, acting as a reference point on all floors. It is an always-present visual linkage back to the heart of the home. The sacred box is an anchoring beacon which reminds us where we came from.

In the late afternoon, a shadow of the family’s crest, a custom pattern in the translucent film on the front door, is cast on the tall white oak millwork in the foyer.

Upstairs, the master ensuite is a serene oasis, a retreat to a light-filled escape from the everyday routine.

A new back deck is tucked under the overhang of a second story sunroom above, and black slats infill the gap to an adjacent brick wall, creating a cozy spot to relax outside, BBQ, and watch the kids playing in the yard.

The deck becomes a natural extension of the living space when the large sliding door is open.

The rear sunroom is re-clad in black siding match with the new windows.

The front porch is rebuilt and tied into wood planters that screen the garbage / relying bins from view.

The design and materiality of the second floor is decidedly more casual, more eclectic and incorporates colour & texture referencing vintage, mid-century design.

The girls bath upstairs features a fun geometric tile that folds from the floor up one wall in the shower. A long double vanity provides plenty of storage space for toiletries, makeup and bath supplies.

The tile makes a fun, bold statement in the bathroom - a niche is perfectly aligned to the grout lines with shelves for shampoos and soaps.

The basement rec room is a casual, multi-purpose space with a large sectional, TV, and drum kit.

At the front of the home, the formal living room blends original Edwardian details with new features. Eclectic art, furniture, and textiles combine to create a space that is playful and colourful, while still feeling elegant and pulled together. It is luxurious without being stiff or pretentious, setting the tone for the rest of the home.

A set of custom marble coffee tables anchors the seating area, and adds to the layered richness of colours and textures in the room. A mix of vintage and contemporary pieces throughout creates a unique blend of styles.

In the corner of the living room off the entry, a mid-century modern sconce lights the record player and a playful art print. The addition of a vintage credenza picks up on the richness of the original wood paneling.

The grand view when entering the front door showcases the original Edwardian woodwork throughout the older part of the home. The original doors and hardware were restored, and new fixtures and furnishings make the foyer more functional for a large busy family.

The powder room was completely reconfigured to feature new arches, storage niches, and a custom stone vanity made from the same Ijen blue marble used for the coffee tables in the living room.

A large mudroom was created in a transitional space between the front hall and the kitchen. A new side entry and basement stair were created to facilitate better movement between inside and out. A custom metal and glass screen provides a sense of separation to the stairway, without visually enclosing it.

Birch tree wallpaper wraps inside the volume, and the shade of yellow on the cabinets evokes the colour birch leaves turn in autumn.

A wall separating the kitchen from a small family room was removed to create a large, open concept kitchen and lounge across the back of the house. A generously-sized island provides seating for the whole family, tons of workspace, and additional storage. Waterfall marble countertops provide a light contrast with the inky teal tile, which wraps around the island base and forms the backsplash on the opposite wall. A large, curving banquette offers space for the whole family to relax, and the sports-loving family can have a hockey game on and hangout together while cooking.

Suspended open shelves are lined with brass laminate which add a touch of glamour, while being a durable surface to store dishes.

New French doors off the kitchen open out to a new outdoor dining area on the deck, letting in extra natural light, and creating a seamless flow between inside and outside in the warmer months.

A custom bar with suspended shelves floats in front of a window, and acts as an entertaining hub when hosting.

The dining room is located between the living room and kitchen, and was designed to be the gathering place for large family meals. Moody and refined finishes such as illustrated wallpaper, ambient sconces, and a mix of contemporary and antique furniture create the perfect space to host a large group. One of the clients is South African, and the protea flower, the national flower of South Africa, adds both a subtle personal touch and a dramatic sense of pattern and movement to the room.

A custom bronzed mirror sculpture by Commute Home hangs on the north wall, illuminated by two contemporary sconces.

The large primary suite is located at the back of the house on the second floor. The bedroom suite is a private retreat for the couple, with a walk-in closet, large ensuite, and separate deck above the ground floor below.

The colours and textures throughout feel light and airy, while still embracing pattern and texture.

In the ensuite, luxurious materials including marble mosaics and brass hardware embrace pattern and colour, while still feeling light and refined.

The north and west facing deck has both open and covered areas, allowing for outdoor relaxation in both rain and sun.

On the second floor, a large lounge becomes a comfortable space for the family to watch TV together. Custom bookshelves accommodate a large book collection, and frame a tiny window in the exterior wall, allowing light to peek through. Another custom marble coffee table grounds the furniture layout and adds subtle colour.

One office provides a space to work from home, and also doubles as a yoga studio. Infrared panels were installed on the ceiling to transform the room into a hot yoga studio for daily practice. New double doors lead out to a generous private deck to cool off afterwards.

In the other office, a rich palette of navy blue, wood, and leather creates an elegant and warm place to work from home. Art and prints from the client’s personal collection add colour, texture, and humour to the space.

The family bathroom on the second floor is a playful mix of materials and geometry. Custom wood and metal millwork offer lots of storage and adds character to the room.

The large basement rec room acts as the kids’ hangout zone and games room, with lots of seating, a full size pool table, and workout area.

A large laundry room doubles as a sewing room and craft space, with ample storage and an antique miller’s table in the centre.

There is also a dedicated dog wash for the family pet, Ronnie, and for hosing down dirty boots and sports equipment.

A bespoke wine cellar tucked into the basement houses a growing collection. A custom marble topped bar cart acts as dolly and table in the centre of the room.

A new large deck and seating area in the backyard facilitate family hangouts, as well as entertaining.

Upon entering, the home immediately opens up, with a dramatic double-height foyer anchored by a curving volume that stretches between the ground and second floors. The narrow, yet extremely tall proportions of the space create a feeling of verticality and loftiness within a very compact footprint. The volume conceals the staircase behind, and is clad in curving millwork which incorporates full-height closets to provide ample storage space.

The foyer visually connects the ground and second floors. Here you look up to see the custom perforated metal guard and handrail, which offer a peek of the reading bench and library beyond. New skylights in the existing sloped roof, along with new window openings, allow generous amounts of west light to cascade down into the space, and cast dramatic, ever-changing shadows against the white walls and millwork.

Moving up the stairs to the second floor, the full effect of the reconfigured floors and roofline is revealed. Thirteen foot ceilings created by a dormer addition, and a radically open-concept layout, create a personal oasis for the clients that blends program elements that are typically separated.

Abandoning conventional layout constraints that didn’t suit how the clients like to live, allowed for a radical spatial reconfiguration. Areas for working, reading, bathing, and sleeping are woven together seamlessly within one cohesive space.

The majority of the floor is dedicated to the home office and extensive library which features sculptural bookshelves that undulated across the wall.

A cozy yellow reading bench is tucked up against the west wall and flows out from the bookshelves and storage beside it. Strong afternoon sun is filtered through the leaves of the enormous scotch elm outside, bathing the area in soft dappled light, and creating the perfect spot to curl up and read.

Light and shadow animate the space, and continually shift over the course of the day, and throughout the seasons.

A neutral palette of stony greys allows the books, plants, and objects to pop as the main source of colour and visual texture. Integrated, dimmable LED lighting transforms the bookshelves into a sculptural, ambient light source at night, and highlights the eclectic displays of treasured objects.

The shower is carved into a narrow space behind the office. The curving marble mosaic walls glimmer in the natural light brought in by a large window and sun tunnel. The effect is of being within a serene, subtly textural cave.

The bedroom is located at the east end of the floor, and is separated from the library by a floor-to-ceiling pocket door, allowing it to be closed off from the rest of the floor, or left completely open as desired. Morning sunlight filters in through the large window, tempered by airy floor-to-ceiling sheers that add softness and movement to the minimalist space.

At night, the tub is spot lit by a pendant light, and the ambient glow of the bookshelf lighting, creating a soothing ambiance for relaxing in the bath at the end of the day.

The custom metal handrail, inspired by Bauhaus design, cascades down the staircase to the ground floor.

Locating the staircase towards the centre of the floorplan allows it to act as a light well, bringing sunlight down to the ground floor from the skylights above. Beside the stair, a long gallery wall provides display space for the client’s extensive art collection.

The ground floor is also entirely open concept, with carefully defined living spaces that unfold in sequence as you move deeper into the house. A continuous bank of millwork flows along the south wall of the whole floor, transforming from a kitchen, to a dining banquette, to a living room credenza and closet.

Curves are used throughout the millwork, countertops, and upholstery to create a feeling of smooth transition between spaces. The undulating forms, combined with the Appenino marble wall, evoke the natural forms and textures of a sinuous, rocky landscape.

The kitchen millwork transforms into a dining area banquette, which maximizes seating in a tight space. The richly textured leather provides a warm counterpoint to the cool white and grey palette.

The fireplace sits atop the living room credenza maximizing storage space, and bringing the viewing window up to a more a more natural height when seated on the sofa.

The new white stucco exterior stands out from its connected neighbour, and provides the perfect backdrop for shadows cast by the tree in front. While the original roofline is maintained, comparing the front porches of the two homes hints at the spatial reconfiguration within.

The ground floor was completely reconfigured, with the kitchen in the centre, dining at the rear, and a living room and foyer in front. The central spaces are open to one another for easy movement between them, and to facilitate entertaining a crowd. Special consideration to natural light was given to every room.

In the kitchen, bold blue cabinetry has a modern face-frame detail in contrasting white oak. The combination of clean lines, saturated colour, and natural materials feels contemporary, warm, and inviting.

Large windows were added at the back to create views of the beautiful mature trees in the rear yard, and to take advantage of the west afternoon and evening light when dining. A mix of new and vintage furniture pieces creates a playful mix of colours and textures. The vintage oxblood leather dining chairs are paired with a new white oak dining table with an inset Fenix top, which is extremely durable and cleanable without compromising style.

A new window and window bench were incorporated along the south side of the kitchen, bringing in ample light throughout the day, and offering somewhere to curl up with a cup of tea and book near the kitchen and eating areas.

The living room has a custom glass and metal screen that provides a balance between transparency and enclosure, without creating visual separation from the kitchen and dining areas.

The kitchen millwork band extends into the living room and becomes a bookcase with space for the record player and some albums. The slate backsplash in the kitchen extends into the living room as well, becoming a dramatic feature wall that adds depth and contrast to the room.

Installing a new side entrance to the house was an important ask. The central staircase was relocated along the north side of the house to create as much central space in the floor plate as possible, and to accommodate stairs from the side entrance to the basement. A full-height piece of millwork conceals them from the kitchen, and houses storage on both sides. Twin appliance garages are on the kitchen side, while coat and shoe storage support the side entrance behind.

In the basement, a custom piece of millwork houses the record player and extensive vinyl collection. The structure for the side door landing is concealed in the millwork by an illuminated display ledge for album covers.

The front façade offers a clear view of the new third floor. The existing hip roof and partial third floor were removed, and a new gable roof with two large dormers was added. Although the new third floor offers much more useable space, the roofline looks proportional to the home, fits in with the neighbourhood, and feels as if it has always looked this way. The existing ground floor sunroom was converted into an open porch for hanging out and chatting with the neighbours as they pass by.

The third floor houses the primary suite with a bedroom, library and office space, ensuite, walk-closet, and roof deck. It is an oasis of calm above the busier communal spaces and offers a peaceful retreat to begin and end each day. At the top of the stairs, you arrive in the primary bedroom library. With floor to ceiling bookshelves, a flip down desk and built-in day bed, it acts as a private work and hangout space outside of the bedroom.

Custom wallpaper in the bedroom features a flower petal design that echoes the blossom of the cherry tree outside when in bloom. The palette is watery and soft, creating a serene place to start and end the day. Bocci sconces float across the wallpaper and provide soft illumination at night.

The ensuite bathroom has a large walk-in shower and tub with a view. A mixture of large format tiles with subtle texture and mint ceramic tiles creates a calming palette, without sacrificing texture or colour.

Yellow onyx sconces add colour and warmth and bring lighting down to eye level in the large, vaulted space.

An existing small single storey addition at the rear was demolished and replaced with a two-storey addition with a roof deck on top. The addition was clad in black Cape Cod wood siding. Directional changes in the cladding between windows provides subtle visual interest.

On the second floor, the main office space takes advantage of beautiful west light. In the spring, the cherry tree outside bursts into bloom, creating a soft, ethereal view. Faceted floating shelves and a built-in desk provide storage and negotiate the transition space between the old house and the new addition.

The kids’ bathroom embraces playful colour in a way that feels youthful and fresh. Low maintenance and durable materials are used throughout to minimize wear and tear, without compromising style.

The home is composed of two main sculptural volumes nestled into the surrounding wheat fields. The house was carefully oriented to prioritize views out to the forest beyond, and to allow for optimal light inside. The landscape changes dramatically over the four seasons, and acts as a lush, textural contrast to the crisp black volumes of the house.

The black wood cladding and simple gable frame structures are a refined reference to the local typology of weathered wood barns. Changing the direction of the siding at certain intersections and openings introduces subtle variation and visual texture to the monolithic black volumes.

As you approach the home, the two barn-like volumes reveal themselves as distinct spaces. The public and private functions of a house are split between the two volumes – the kitchen, living, and dining areas are housed in one open-concept building, and the bedrooms and bathrooms are located in the other. They are linked together by a glassy hallway. The front entry is recessed in the main volume, and concealed by a large barn door that slides shut to offer protection from the elements when the family is away.

The roofline of the building is expressed on the interior in the form of lofty, vaulted ceilings. Anchored by an extruded volume for the fireplace and a large corner window in the living room, the gracious open-concept room offers multiple distinct living areas within it.

The living room is centred around a linear wood burning fireplace raised on a stone plinth. Both the fireplace and wood storage are cleanly finished in powder coated metal to create a crisp band that wraps across the base of the chimney volume, and returns to meet the corner window beside it.

The stark palette of black and white is a hallmark of Scandinavian design, and keeps the focus on the spatial qualities of the rooms, and the views out to the surrounding landscape. In the kitchen, a small window is cut into the backsplash to offer a peak outside while preparing a meal.

A built-in banquette in the dining area provides ample seating for the large family, as well as a touch of colour and texture. A large Muuto Strand pendant light is suspended on an arm over the table and provides a warm, ambient glow.

An extremely generous deck links both volumes and acts as an outdoor room. It is an entertaining space large enough for the entire extended clan to gather together, and large enough for multiple dining and seating areas. Planting is thoughtfully integrated into the deck, and overtime will help it blend into the site.

The two buildings are connected by a hallway with floor to ceiling windows, which serves as a glazed link between the private and public areas. It offers views to the surrounding landscape, and the feeling of leaving one building for another.

The master ensuite features a very neutral, soothing material palette, with subtle pops of blue. A window frames a view of a tree outside, linking the interior with the landscape. A long, recessed niche extends the full length of the room, providing additional storage for the vanity and shower.

The kids’ bedrooms also feature framed views of the landscape, and have skylights sliced into the ceiling to provide extra light.

In the kids’ bathroom, recessed shelving provides extra storage and is inlaid with a geometric white marble mosaic for a subtle hint of visual texture.

The roofline was changed to a large gable with small dormers, a profile typical of early 20th century homes. This creates much more useable space on the third floor, and better suits both the house and the neighbourhood. The change also creates more southern exposure on the roof – enabling the addition of solar panels.

The foyer sets the tone with a blend of contemporary materials - such as the concrete tile and brass inlay floor - with antique pieces and vintage-inspired details , such as the glass side table and custom metal screen.

The original lead glass windows were preserved inside new triple-glazed windows, maintaining the integrity of the home’s original details while vastly improving their energy efficiency.

A powder room is tucked off the foyer, and features a vintage pendant light and mirror, set against a backdrop of bold, yet elegant, wallpaper.

In the library, a custom metal and glass screen provides a view to the foyer, but also separates the room for private conversation or quiet reading.

The sunken great room at the rear of the house contains the kitchen, dining room, and a lounge area. It features an eclectic mix of the clients’ treasured vintage finds, nods to traditional Edwardian architectural details, and modern industrial materials.

This vintage Parisian train station clock is a beloved possession, and is given a prominent new home between the dining and lounge areas.

The kitchen blends old and new, combining elements of more traditional styles, such as the island, with contemporary industrial materials and modern lines. Large French doors and floor-to-ceiling windows provide connection to the backyard

The bar area at the end of the kitchen features a drop-down TV that when retracted is completely hidden from view.

A generously sized green velvet sectional provides ample space to lounge just off the kitchen. The lead glass windows and antique glass pendant lend a feeling formality and ornament to the cozy space

In the dining area, a concrete-topped table and patinaed steel pendant light have a touch of industrial grit, balancing the traditional elegance of the wainscoting and chevron hardwood floors.

Designed by MWLA Landscape Architects, the backyard features numerous gathering places for outdoor dining and entertaining, including a firepit and a custom pergola. Thoughtful use of native planting and permeable hardscaping keep the yard looking elegant and refined, while being both environmentally friendly and easy to maintain.

The custom metal pergola features integrated pendant lights and provides a modern counterpoint to the original garage, with its heritage yellow brick and traditional slate roof

In the kids’ bedrooms, custom-made floating desks were fit into the bay windows, to create spacious workspaces.

A small sink and vanity was also added to each bedroom so each kid has a personal wash station to get ready at in the morning.

The third floor is the primary bedroom, ensuite, and dressing room – a private retreat for the adults to relax at the end of the day. The rafters were exposed to create lofty ceilings. Skylights were cut into the roof to provide light and views of the sky and surrounding trees.

The ensuite is nestled into one of the two small dormers, including a cozy nook for the sculptural free-standing tub.

The his and hers vanity is an antique dresser that has been custom retrofit.

The large dressing room and walk-in closet also features a vaulted ceiling, skylight, and large window. Every corner of space is maximized for storage, including deep dresser drawers that make use of the remaining space behind the knee walls.

A new private deck was added off the bedroom, and features an outdoor shower.

The layout was recomposed to embrace separation between rooms with different functions. The ground floor is partitioned into separate kitchen, living, and dining rooms that unfold in sequence in a classic enfilade, with a clear delineation of openings. This spatial strategy was typical of formal Victorian homes and is an alternate approach to the more contemporary open concept floor plan.

Painting by Susan Sakamoto

While the original stairs were narrow and awkwardly placed, the new stair is located in the centre of the floor plan, and is a striking design feature that runs continuously across the floors. In a dramatic nod to the client’s love of plants and art, opulent wallpaper featuring tropical plants and intense colours flows up and down the entire stair well, uniting the different spaces of the home through a shared design element.

The traditional details of the period, such as tall baseboards ,ornate crown moulding, and door casing, were not only incorporated, but celebrated through the use of a striking deep green accent colour used throughout the home.

The kitchen was reconfigured to prioritize views outward to the backyard. As an avid gardener, the client wanted to feel connected the garden and bring views of the yard into the kitchen. A full height sliding door opens on to the garden and improves the connection between indoors and out.

The natural stone kitchen countertops have an earthiness and complex colour palette reminiscent of the client’s travels to the Dolomites. The smoky, rich colours chosen for the millwork work with the stone to create a sensuous, yet elegant palette.

The powder room features Morris & Co.’s classic Pimpernel wallpaper, designed by William Morris in 1876 for his own home in London. Combined with a mix of contemporary and vintage plumbing and light fixtures, the room is a glamourous blend of Victorian and contemporary design.

The formal living room features a new black slate fireplace mantle and surround which anchors the space and provides rich, dramatic contrast with the neutral textiles used on the furniture and full length curtains. The material palette and layout create a luxurious place to have a drink with friends after retiring from dinner.

The rich aubergine colour of the foyer millwork was inspired by the original stained-glass windows in the entry. The windows also inspired the etched glass pattern on the new entry door, establishing the dialogue between new and old from the outset as you enter the home.

The flower motif present in the foyer stained glass windows also inspired the custom metal newel post at the foot of the stair.

A new skylight was cut into the roof to create a dramatic slice down to the principal shower – the back wall is tiled the full 15 foot height up to the skylight, creating a dramatic feature wall that offers views of the sky and the feeling of showering in the rain.

The bathroom’s calm, neutral palette creates a serene, spa like experience.

With a few of the ground floor walls removed, the kitchen was expanded across the whole back of the house, and a new dining area was created in the centre of the layout. Modern detailing and clean lines unify the different spaces and create a calm, ordered atmosphere.

The kitchen makes use of all available space for storage, and features the same beautiful quartzite used throughout the ground floor.

A new larder and bar area was installed on the south side, which dramatically increases the amount of storage in the kitchen, and houses an appliance garage and dedicated drinks station.

A custom banquette with plush upholstery injects softness and colour into the space.

Stepping into the screened-in porch feels like stepping into another room inside the house. The thoughtful use of finishes like wood and stone that can be exposed to the elements, but are more familiar in indoor spaces, blurs the boundary between inside and out.

A new gas fire pit was installed in the central seating area, creating a cozy place to lounge all year round. A permanent outdoor tv was installed for watching sports events and movies.

The enclosed patio transforms from an opaque volume into an illuminated box when lit from within at night.

Wood paneling that wraps on to ceiling is thoughtfully lit, and creates a warm ambient glow.

On the second floor, the existing bathroom and three bedrooms were transformed into a primary bedroom suite that features a lounge and generous walk-in closet. The small existing bathroom was updated to feel lighter and more open, and to make better use of the available space.

A playful custom tile mosaic adds colour and pattern.

The primary bedroom was relocated and combined with another bedroom to create a suite with a large walk-in closet. A new deck was added off the bedroom, on top of the screened in patio below.

The remaining bedroom was turned into a TV lounge space, with custom display shelves for the clients’ Formula One model car collection.

Original ornamental woodwork adorns the front foyer, and is enhanced by the shades of blue and pops of color throughout. The contrast of colors creates a dramatic and elegant feel without being out of step from the original design.

The heritage woodwork of this beautiful Edwardian home was immaculately preserved, which provided a unique design opportunity to retain a portion of the existing home, whilst introducing a level of modernity in the newer spaces.

Original leaded windows are preserved in the front portion of the home, which showcases the home’s unique features.

Located in the original part of the home, this front room embraces the combination of the beautiful heritage wood and plasterwork and more modern light fixtures and furniture.

The prominent light fixture centering the space pays homage to the Edwardian ceiling rose and plaster work in the interior molding.

A custom, hand-painted mural by local artists surrounds the entirety of the dining room and creates a space that feels dramatic and moody, while still feeling like an elegant and formal dining space.

The ground floor powder room is located in the transition point between the old and new parts of the home. New wainscoting takes a cue from the heritage woodwork, and is combined with more contemporary fixtures and finishes.

This home offers a unique distinction between the formality and grandeur of the living and entertainment spaces, versus the more contemporary and casual private spaces. The rear living room is designed for this family of six to relax, unwind, and spend quality time together.

Large windows with plenty of natural light, warm tones and hints of brass add to the feeling of calm and sophistication in this generously sized kitchen.

A space to neatly tuck away shoes and coats is provided near the back entry, nestled beside a fireplace and below open shelving. A classic herringbone wood floor is used in the rear portion of the house.

An 8-person dining table is placed near the back entry to allow for easy flow and openness between indoors and outdoors.

The back of this home was updated with new, larger windows to provide natural light and direct views to the backyard. Large trees engulf the yard creating a private oasis and a space for relaxation.

A curated composition of lights, shelving and a stand-alone tub creates a cozy, spa-like feeling in this bright and airy primary ensuite.

A custom wood composite vanity is designed to combine both looks and durability. The finishes are carefully selected to be both soft - with touches of white and wood - and bold - with a graphic wallpaper and black fixtures.

Complex rooflines are used to their advantage on the third floor to provide tucked away storage and display spaces.

The basement bathroom combines an eclectic tile with industrial design features.

The foyer is divided from the living room by the millwork wall, which acts as coat closet on the entry side, and bookcase in the living room.

The millwork wall stretches through the entire ground floor, and accommodates a range of uses. It houses storage, closets, and shelving, but also conceals mechanical ductwork, and hides the entrances to the basement and second floor staircases.

The ground floor plan, showing the millwork wall in orange, flowing from the front foyer through to the back door. The floor was reconfigured and extended to include a new kitchen in the addition at the back.

The transition between the old extents of the house and the new sunken addition occurs at the dining room, and is marked by a living green wall housed in a gap in the millwork. A sun tunnel was installed above to provide additional light throughout the day.

In the dining room, the millwork band houses a sideboard and wine storage. The datum line becomes the countertop, and then carries across above the kitchen appliances beyond.

The material palette was partly inspired by family trips to Costa Rica. The rich walnut, living green wall, and copious light inject warmth and subtle hints of tropical influence into the home.

View to the rear yard from the top of the stairs to the sunken kitchen. The green wall and floor to ceiling windows draw the eye out to the lush backyard beyond.

The green wall marks the stairs that descend from the old part of the house to the new addition.

The view from the kitchen at the bottom of the steps, looking back towards the dining room, and living room beyond.

Built for keen home cooks, the large kitchen features ample counterspace, and wall ovens in addition to a large range.

The kitchen material palette includes watery blues, greys, and greens, mixed with warmer tones provided by the wood and light fixtures.

The angled overhang on the rear addition is both a nod to the unusual angular geometries inside the existing house, as well as a functional awning that provides cover from the elements when barbecuing outdoors.

On top of the new addition is a large roof deck that extends off the family office space.

The second floor bathroom was completely re-done with new finishes, fixtures, and millwork. The pendant light by Toronto company Object/Interface houses a built-in planter, offering an unexpected peek of vegetation.

The small semi-detached home was originally just over 7 feet wide at the rear, with very limited space to widen into on the lot. The rear half of the house was widened 30 inches. Any more would have required variances, which the clients wanted to avoid, and the lot itself was only 12 and a half feet wide. This small increase transformed the layout possibilities of the kitchen. A new work triangle was created with a small peninsula of countertop that houses the sink. A smart layout and thoughtful use of every square inch makes for a kitchen that is as efficient as it is colourful and playful.

Bringing natural light and bold colour into the narrow space help it feel fresh and comfortable. A new full height sliding door also offers easy access to the backyard.

Every opportunity for storage and display was taken advantage of, with narrow ledges and niches incorporated throughout. The playful mix of colours and materials evokes the quirky yet homey kitchens of the 1960s, and nods to kitsch while still feeling contemporary.

The existing kitchen was extremely narrow, and the ground floor offered no dining seating at all. Incorporating a dining area into the kitchen was paramount. A cozy banquette is nestled in behind the kitchen, offering a place to eat, or lounge while someone is cooking. A mix of rough-around-the edges vintage furniture pieces complements the sleek new millwork.

A large expanse of display shelving runs the full length of the kitchen and houses the bulk of their collection. It’s a maximalist display that gives the growing collection a level of organization, while embracing the eclectic jumble of items.

The view from the hall into the new kitchen

In the original layout, the only bathroom in the house was located at the rear of the ground floor. Adding a second story addition on top of the existing ground floor allowed for a master bedroom with more ergonomic proportions than the original cramped room, as well as space for a new ensuite bathroom.

The step back in the exterior wall to the wider portion of the house occurs behind the bathroom cabinets, allowing for deeper storage. The clients favoured an industrial look that embraced exposed plumbing and rough materials, but in a manner that feels thoughtful and intentional, rather than unfinished.

The small bathroom efficiently uses every inch of space, even squeezing in enough room for a double shower at one end. Several sun tunnels were added to bring in natural light to the windowless room.

The cat’s litter box is cleverly hidden inside the millwork. Sliding doors offer easy access for cleaning, and keep litter dust out of the bathroom.

The front facade is completely reimagined to give the home a fresh presence on the street. The front door is cleverly relocated from a nondescript opening on the right to be celebrated within a larger arched opening on the left. An old porch is replaced with a modern canopy, slatted wall for privacy and a custom planter built in weathering steel.

The relocated front door retains a portion of original stained glass in the transom above, and opens to a sunken, tiled entry foyer complete with a bench and plenty of closet storage space.

The foyer’s floor tile flows inside and up the back wall of the powder room, inside of a volume clad in raw cold-rolled steel. The combination of a delicate, handmade, geometric cement tile with the dark grey, machine-made raw steel is a deliberate juxtaposition that is echoed throughout the home where a clean modern interior is offset against rough, raw materials.

Stepping up from the entryway, the ground floor opens onto a cozy built-in banquette with a wood ceiling that wraps down one wall, defining a warm space for gathering and enjoying meals together.

The bold texture of the powder room volume wrapped in steel provides a dynamic backdrop for the dining banquette; reflections in the metal wall highlight its rich and varied, natural texture.

Opposite the banquette, the wood ceiling folds down crisply along a bank of full high cabinetry providing storage space for jackets, outerwear, and overflow kitchen storage.

The wood ceiling wrap is a bold gesture that brings warmth and richness to a clean, modern interior.

In contrast, a clean white kitchen is located in the heart of the home. The house takes full advantage of a unusually wide side yard by punching large windows in the side wall, which is typically not allowed on most Toronto lots where homes are closer together. The bright, white kitchen injects light deep into the middle of the house, instead of relying only on the front and rear walls as the preliminary sources of daylight.

A subtle, geometric tile backsplash brings a lightness and delicacy to the kitchen. The crystalline shapes glimmer and reflect light streaming in from the generous windows.

New window openings are carefully located and aligned with the countertop and bulkhead above to make the window frames disappear as much as possible and create an illusion of standing outdoors when one stands at the countertop.

A custom lasercut screen features a pattern inspired by the kitchen backsplash tile and changes in opacity to provide views through in some areas, and conceal the staircase beyond in other zones.

The living room at the back of the house is defined by a second wood ceiling wrap, effectively bookending the ground floor of the home.

From the stairwell side, the cutout pattern of the screen wall is highlighted by light passing through, casting soft shadows on the opposite wall.

Through the upstairs corridor, a selection of the original ceiling joists are retained and exposed. The ceiling above vaults to a peak and is punctured by three sun tunnels that flood the corridor with natural light. Pendants are precisely dangled between the exposed joists.

A custom made barn door that repurposes scraps of reclaimed wood makes a bold statement on the 2nd floor, enclosing a small den space off the corridor that serves multiple purposes - a yoga space, a reading nook or a child’s play space.

Exposed joists continue through the master bedroom, but at a denser spacing which creates a sense of coziness and enclosure, within a grand bedroom with vaulted 12’ ceilings.

A clean palette for bathroom is enriched by a bold patterned floor tile. Since the bathroom is shared by the family it includes a separate toilet room and double vanity to enable it to be used by more than one person at a time.

A shower niche aligned with the vanity top is a perfect place for storing soaps and shampoos.

In the basement, a custom built in shelving unit uses rough, reclaimed wood to house a collection of books around the TV - a casual lounge space for movie watching and sleepovers.

The cat’s litter is tucked discreetly into a closet, marked only by the an orange rimmed circle cut into the door at the perfect height for easy kitty access.

The new porch provides a generous urban room for sitting outdoors, chatting with neighbours and watching pedestrians walking through the beautiful & established neighbourhood. A cedar slatted wall provides privacy and a backrest for the built-in bench.

The rear yard provides a more secluded outdoor space for family gatherings, BBQs and playing in the yard.

The palette of raw cedar and black-stained wood siding continues on the rear facade. Generous new windows and doors are cut into the existing home to provide generous amounts of light, and views to the yard.

An oversized picture window at the back of the house is a bold, modern move. Instead of a sliding door, the window provides uninterrupted views and a clean, minimal appearance. Access to the yard is through a tall swing door opening to the right side.

The neighbourhood is very social and the redesign of the exterior, and particularly the front porch, was aimed at facilitating this connection. The new porch is fully open to the street, with wide steps that stretch all the way across and can double as seats to perch on while stopping by for a chat.

Upon entering you are redirected into an entry corridor carved out of the floor plan by the addition of a new wall. The division creates privacy from the street, and incorporates hidden shoe storage.

The existing house didn’t have space for a good-sized dining table and felt cramped when entertaining. The new layout facilitates entertaining a large crowd, while still feeling comfortable and intimate when it’s just the family. The client’s collection of antique plates is featured prominently in a playful, colourful composition.

New sun tunnels over the stairwell bring even more natural light into the centre of the floor plate.

The remainder of the ground floor beyond the foyer was opened up into one large space, with different dining, cooking, and seating areas. A large island anchors the ground floor. It provides ample prep space when cooking, as well as extra seating, and a servery when entertaining.

The material palette is very light and soft, with some playful details like the plate wall, and the beadboard. Brass fixtures and hardware add a touch of warmth.

The kitchen was moved from a tight back corner of the house to the centre, allowing it to be the central hub of the home, and to occupy more of the floor plan.

The living room at the rear of the ground floor incorporates new recessed shelving and offers a stylish yet cozy place to relax. Blue accents such as the velvet sofa and dining chairs pick up on the colours in the plate wall.

The ground floor of this home is dramatically opened up, creating a unified space for cooking, entertaining and relaxing, connected by a ceiling plane that appears to float effortlessly while lighting the entire space without the need for a grid of potlights.

There is an elegant sophistication throughout the project. A rich palette of materials combines the warmth and textured grain of walnut millwork with accents of brass and touches of softer fabrics and wall coverings.

The kitchen is designed for two serious home chefs who often entertain guests for dinner parties. Merging the kitchen and dining room into a singular space was a strategic design decision to both foster their style of ‘chefs table’ entertaining, and also make the most efficient use of valuable floor space - a common consideration in most Toronto homes. The table becomes an island-like surface for additional prep space, and also as the surface upon which the meal is eventually enjoyed.

The project’s millwork uses integrated finger pulls for drawers and elevates the inset portions with strips of brass that create a composition of shimmering horizontal lines across the millwork.

The client’s detailed requirements for kitchen functionality and storage were thoughtfully considered; the interior divisions and storage solutions are of high quality, and given as much thought as what is visible from the exterior.

A row of three brass pendants hover above the walnut kitchen table, casting a warm glow. The crisp angles of brass folding up and down bring a touch of drama to the space that is otherwise defined by predominantly horizontal lines.

A floating walnut shelf runs the length of the kitchen, providing the perfect spot for the couple’s collection of beautifully curated tableware, set against a wall covered in light green, glazed ceramic tile. A number of sculpted, three-dimensional tiles are scattered randomly throughout the grid of vertical stack-bonded field tiles.

A bank of deep, full height cabinetry conceals the kitchen appliances and pantry storage using the same language of walnut divided with horizontal brass pulls.

The custom walnut table is paired with the classic curves of Hans Wegner’s iconic elbow chair.

Brass key joints are inlaid within the walnut table top to reinforce knots and splits naturally occurring within the slab.

The geometry of the stair handrail is a nod to art deco forms; made in black powder coated steel, and capped with a walnut handrail. The stair is flooded with light from a skylight above, illuminating a subtly textured wall covering, that evokes a soft, plaster finish.

The back door serves as the everyday entrance for the homeowners, and features closets in a dusty, sage green that provide ample storage for jackets and outerwear.

A comfortable reading chair is tucked into a nook, lit discreetly by an integrated LED strip light.

The living room sits in the front of the home and centres around a fireplace clad in limestone from the Loire valley. An intricate metal screen is positioned behind the couch to provide privacy and define the space as separate from the front entry foyer.

Beside the fireplace, a set of floating walnut shelves are inset, displaying items from the client’s travels.

Upstairs, the main bathroom is enlarged and reconfigured to provide a luxurious spa-like experience within the home. An extra-long skylight is sliced into the roof to bring generous amounts of natural light into the bathroom and flood the soft green feature wall tile with light.

The tub becomes a brightly lit alcove off the bathroom, with storage below for towels, and a generous sill surrounding the tub for houseplants.

A walnut vanity floats off the wall, featuring a wide integrated sink for easy cleaning.

The brass pull detail from the kitchen repeats on the vanity front, reflecting light from the large skylight opposite.

A shelf surface above the vanity wraps around the corner and into a recess featuring a walnut medicine cabinet - providing a perfect place to tuck toiletries within easy reach.

The floating wood vanity hovers above the floor tile of small marble hexagons.

Tucked off the main bathroom, an enclosed steam shower room is spacious and lit by a frosted window. A bench wraps two sides of the shower, providing places to sit and soak in the steam, and spots for humidity-loving plants to thrive in the diffuse light.

The delicate green hex wall tile brings some soothing colour into the spa-like shower. Shower controls are located immediately inside the glass door for easy operation without getting wet.

The living room wall is dedicated to a built-in library, to store the couple's sizeable collection of books. Seating is centred around a wood burning fireplace that gets frequent use through the cold months of the year. 

Bookshelves stretch from wall-to-wall, and floor-to-ceiling. Since the library is a working collection for the client, a bioethics scholar, a ladder rolls along the full length, to enable access to the uppermost shelves.

Built in shelves are thoughtfully composed to accommodate various sizes of volumes, while maintaining particular alignments throughout the room.

A firewood cabinet is fully stocked at the base of the library. 

The couple's collection of vinyl records and CDs are stored below the turntable in a custom, built-in piece that occupies the front bay window of the home.

An office nestled just off the living room is separated by a wood partition and pocket door, and receives abundant natural light.

Integrated drawer pulls, milled from solid walnut drawer fronts, are a subtle, elegant detail

The powder room off the corridor by the library/living room, features tile reminiscent of crumpled paper running floor to ceiling; the proportions of the space are emphasized by a slender vertical mirror hovering just off the wall.

A refined palette of materials and fixtures is minimal without being sterile, and welcomes the thoughtful curation of the couple’s unique objects from their travels.

The kitchen and dining room are combined into a single space, and draw inspiration from old-world bistros with a bold palette of black and white cabinetry flanking one wall, and an original tin ceiling painted black over the dining table.

Upon entry to the kitchen, the black tin ceiling immediately distinguishes the space from generic, white, modern kitchens; its rich texture harkens back to another age, yet remains crisply framed within a modern renovation.

The rear of the house was radically opened up in the renovation to create a spacious room for cooking and entertaining, with plenty of natural light from south facing windows, and views to the rear yard.

The side door is reimagined to become the family’s everyday entrance; a blue patterned tile wraps up the wall, defining a ‘mud room’ zone within the kitchen, with walnut closets on either side. The couple collaborated with a local typographic artist to design the custom text applied to the glass door.

The ‘mud room’ is integrated within the kitchen, without seeming out of place. Thoughtful consideration is given the transitions from wood flooring to tile to demarcate a zone connecting the side and back doors for a different kind of use than the working kitchen on the opposite side of the island. 

Inspired by a boutique hotel, a white oak headboard doubles as a screen dividing the master bedroom from the couple's lounge / TV-watching area.

The bed frame appears to float above the floor. 

Bedside tables and lights, built into the screens, are located at either side of the bed, providing convenient storage.

Pocket doors to the ensuite bathroom are meticulously detailed to appear as a single, flush wall panel when closed.

When opened, the pocket doors reveal a vibrant blue wall tile that evokes a rich tapestry, and appears to runs continuously through both rooms of the ensuite.

A vertical channel is cut out of the ensuite doors, the deepest portion detailed with oil rubbed bronze, to act as an integrated door pull. 

When the ensuite doors are closed, the custom pull detail provides a subtle, elegant relief within what appears to be a flush wood panel wall.

The kids bathroom features a bold contrast of black and white, a classic old-world palette interpreted in a modern space, with an eclectic edge.

Thoughtful updates to the front facade bring a sense of cohesion to the home, set within a beautifully established garden.

The project establishes a dialogue between the old home and the new addition; views are carefully framed from one to the other to create linkages between spaces.

The kitchen becomes the home’s central gathering space; from casual meals at the banquette table, to after-school snacks, or entertaining friends around the island, the kitchen accommodates a variety of ways for family and friends to gather around food and drink.

A crisp, clean palette of white and light wood cabinetry is enriched by a handmade backsplash tile with natural variations in the glaze that brings an softness to the space.

The kitchen is lit by generous floor-to-ceiling windows that afford views out over the lush green yard and onto the Humber ravine. Inside, the island incorporates an ‘urban cultivator’ for growing fresh greens and herbs year-round.

Framed views and alignments are carefully considered throughout the project to make the addition feel effortlessly integrated within the home.

A side entrance is tucked behind the kitchen and marked by a step down to a natural slate floor, providing easy access at grade to the garage and rear yard. A bank of closets provide plenty of storage space for jackets, but are pulled down from the ceiling to create a sense of connection to the rest of the home.

The rear 2-storey addition is blended seamlessly with the existing home; a red brick was selected to match the existing home, and the existing home itself is upgraded to provide larger, better performing windows that further help blend the old with the new.

Upstairs, the new master suite becomes a spacious adult retreat overlooking the rear yard. Calming tones of pale green are paired with light woods and soft fabrics to create a serene environment for rest and relaxation.

The headboard partition wall anchors the bed within the room, and provides a unique boutique hotel-like layout.

The master ensuite is a efficiently laid out and includes a floating double vanity, and plenty of storage space for toiletries in medicine cabinets recessed into the wall.

Two bedrooms were re-designed in consultation with the kids - now young adults - to update juvenile kids rooms to finishes and furniture more appropriate to their age and taste.

Another bedroom features a different palette of lighter cream tones, soft fabrics, and geometric patterns.

The addition is articulated in a combination of white brick and black wood siding. Although modern in its massing and composition, the addition takes cues from the materials of traditional Scandinavian cottages and reimagines them in a contemporary language.

The kitchen is designed to become the heart of the home, looking out over the backyard. White oak flooring set in a herringbone pattern, and a bold, geometric blue backsplash tile are the big moves that bring texture and colour into the space, providing visual interest without overpowering the fresh, bright and light palette.

The kitchen is laid out to maximize efficiency and storage while retaining an open layout so that it serves both as a space for cooking, and a space for living and entertaining guests. Brass metal accents throughout the kitchen subtly catch the eye and compliment the blue backsplash tile against an otherwise clean, white palette.

A long servery and pantry is located between the kitchen and dining room to provide spill-over prep space, and then to double as a perfect area to serve food when there are guests.

The geometric pattern of the backsplash tile is visually captivating without being overwhelming, and appears light and delicate, despite being a bold gesture within the space.

Custom brass brackets support open shelves for glassware and ceramics.

A built in banquette with upholstered seating serves the family’s day-to-day needs at meal-time and is generously lit with windows on two sides. A sculptural wood light is quietly eye-catching and helps to define the breakfast nook as its own zone apart from the kitchen.

An efficient mud-room and side entrance off the kitchen provides convenient access to the their family members who happen to be next door neighbours. Custom wood pulls were designed and crafted by a local wood-worker for the closet doors, and the floor features a beautiful, subtle variation of natural stone that helps conceal traces of dirt or salt.

Since there is frequent traffic back and forth between the home and the next door neighbours, we designed a small courtyard between the homes, off of which a side door leads to the mudroom and kitchen.

The dining room features many classic Danish-designed modern pieces. An inlaid segment of herringbone flooring centred around the table subtly helps to ground the dining room and suits the more traditional detailing in the front half of the existing home.

The main hallway features an original brick wall and, like the rest of the front of the house, preserves the traditional baseboards and casework details, while providing a glimpse into the new powder room that is tucked just behind the stair. The powder room’s clean palette of blues and whites hints at the modern addition, a sneak peek for visitors stepping into the home.

The powder room is a thoughtfully composition of light wood closet and vanity top, set against an intricate blue tile that is illiuminated from above by a hidden cove light.

The upstairs kids bathroom accommodates a double vanity so that the kids can get ready for school at the same time. Green wall sconces, robe hooks and a shower curtain are subtle yet playful accents that bring colour and life to the bright, white room.

In the master bedroom upstairs, the tone remains calm and clean. A custom bed-frame upholstered in grey fabric is refined yet comfortable.

A window seat framed by closets and opens shelves is a cozy spot to sit and read.

An ensuite featuring accents of colour and wood texture brings warmth and interest to the master suite, tucked just off the bedroom itself.

The choice of a geometric blue tile is decidedly modern, but its subtle texture is reminiscent of danish pottery. Wood shelves and a custom vanity bring some warmth to the room and provide plenty of storage space in a compact ensuite.

A wall-mounted toilet is another space-saving feature that allows for the full 3-piece bathroom to fit within a modest footprint. A large widow brings generous amounts of light into the bathroom that washes across the blue tile, accentuating its subtle geometry.

The addition is designed to maintain light and views from an existing bedroom in the house; where the second floor steps back, a portion of roof is covered in a low-maintenance green roof system that improves views for the homeowners and their neighbours.

Seen against a hodgepodge of rear additions typical of many Toronto streets, the addition deliberately stands out from its neighbours.

Simple, thoughtful landscaping define the transitions from home, to yard, and then to a paved dining area and garage in the back of the lot.

Anchoring the new kitchen and living space at the rear of the ground floor is a large harvest table that accommodates both families and does double duty as additional workspace. Windows were added across the whole rear façade to bring in west light.

The elegant and considered design is very minimal, with all materials and features carefully chosen and all extraneous elements removed.

The kitchen remains in the centre of the ground floor, but is elongated, with a larger island that maximizes storage and prep space. Soft green and light wood add subtle colour and texture. A curving bulkhead visually defines he boundaries of the kitchen space and conceals structural and mechanical elements that previously interrupted the ceiling.

Light and shadow interplay in the space, with the airy, white architecture balanced by darker furnishings such as black dining chairs and dark velvet sofa in the lounge. Touches of other colours and textures add warmth to the cooly elegant space.

The side entry layout was reconfigured to accommodate better storage for coats, shoes, and bags, with a built-in bench. The laundry room is located off the entry for convenient access from the main living space. A new skylight floods the  area with natural light.

Thoughtful details that elevate a minimal scheme include Forbes & Lomax unlacquered brass light switches throughout. These will patina over time with use and age, and are almost like touches of jewelry on the walls.

Additional storage closets line the hallway from the front entrance to the kitchen to maximize storage. Integrated millwork with slim edge pulls allow the storage to visually recede into the walls, preserving the minimalist feel of the corridor.

Strategic touches of whimsy keep the Scandinavian influenced design from feeling too self-serious or cold. In the powder room, illustrated wallpaper from the Swedish company Borastapeter adds a cheerful pop of colour off the all-white hallway.

In the expanded front foyer, contemporary furniture and accessories play off a colourful patterned tile floor to establish the tone of the house upon entry.

The living room features a cozy wood burning fireplace, and deep blue velvet furniture that compliments the artworks by Tania Love above the fireplace and sofa.

The area between the houses and the backyards are shared by both families, and are designed with easy flow between the houses in mind.

Upon entering the front door, a wood slat screen redirects the flow of movement into the home, and offers glimpses in to the dining room beyond.

The tile floor and built-in storage and bench define the space as an entry without the need for solid partitions.

As you turn the corner from the entry, the dining area is nestled beside the wood screen. The rich colour palette of sage green upholstery on the built-in banquette and wood table create a warm, serene place to enjoy a meal.

The kitchen was re-located to the centre of the ground floor. Connected to both the living and dining areas, it acts as the hub of the home. A large island offers generous cooking and prep space, as well as acting as a bar when entertaining. A long window was cut along the back kitchen wall and acts as a backsplash, providing views out and letting natural light in.

Above the window, wood wraps up the wall and on to a dropped ceiling which defines the kitchen as a separate zone within the open concept-layout. The crisp white cabinetry, warm wood, and grey countertops create a space that is contemporary and bold without feeling cold. A second wood screen separates the kitchen from the stair to the basement.

Beyond the kitchen, the living room is located at the rear of the house. The clients are passionate about music and dance, and needed storage for their extensive record and CD collection. Custom-built millwork provides storage, and acts as a media centre.

Display shelves on the opposite wall allow the clients to display a rotating selection of record covers, which provide a graphic pop of colour to the room.

The wood screen casts shadows that dance across the stairway as you descend in to the basement.

The basement was reconfigured as a place to lounge, watch movies, and play music.

A new deck and pergola with seating and a barbeque allow entertaining to spill outdoors in the warmer months, and offer a quiet place to enjoy the outdoors.

The design balances honouring the history of the home, with the addition of contemporary updates. In the foyer, a custom floor tile pattern composed of hex tile nods to historical materials, reminiscent of an old bistro or cafe. Beyond, a new white staircase spirals up the home, featuring a vibrant, coloured runner.

At the front entry, a peculiar elliptical window of the original home was retained as a relic of the historical house, framed on the wall alongside historical photos and artifacts related to the original home.

The powder room also mixes old and new, with an emphasis on fun and quirky juxtapositions of materials and colours.

The kitchen is flooded with light from a south-facing skylight that angles to pull in maximum light. A sliding window above the sink opens to an outdoor bar - useful for entertaining guests and passing food to and from the barbeque.

The client’s collection of teacups is displayed prominently in floor-to-ceiling shelves, becoming an eye-catching backdrop to everyday life in the kitchen.

A subtle linear texture of angled grooves stretches across the upper cabinets.

Overlooking the rear yard, the lounge is an informal space for family gatherings and includes easily moveable seating and poufs for kids to play on the floor within sight of the kitchen. Built-in millwork accommodates plenty of storage for coats and jackets while also providing a space for homework that is tucked away yet still connected to the rest of the ground floor.

The whitewashed brick addition is punched with vibrant yellow windows and doors. A pergola over the raised deck helps mediate the transition between inside and out, creating an in-between zone with shaded views over the yard and pool.

The dining room sits in the centre of the home. A generously proportioned buffer on either side allows tables to be arranged end-to-end for occasional dinners when the clients host large dinner parties for 20+ family and friends.

A custom millwork bar unit draws inspiration from rough textured lumber and raw metalwork, concealing a wine fridge below, and liquor and glassware storage within metal mesh doors above.

The formal living room at the front of the home is the most enclosed room on the ground floor, yet still maintains visual connections to the foyer and stairs through a custom glass and metal screen. Large glazed pocket doors enclose the other wall, allowing the room to be acoustically separated from the rest of the house when watching TV or a movie.

A vibrant, patterned cement tile of teal and gold tones is contrasted with classic white subway tile in the kid’s 2nd floor bathroom. This contrast creates a bold statement while feeling light, fresh, and contemporary, while still referencing some classic, older-world notions of pattern.

A delicate, handmade yellow glazed tile creates a warm, spa-like feel in the third floor main ensuite. The yellow tile stretches the entire width of the room within a niche to link the shower and the vanity walls, and provides an accessible ledge for plants and storage.

The shower takes advantage of the roof’s slope to create a lofty space for relaxation and contemplation. The shower is flooded in natural light by a skylight that frames views of the sky and passing clouds.

Wood collar ties are exposed in the ceiling to express a cathedral ceiling. A full bank of closets opposite the bed provides plenty of space for clothing storage and seamlessly integrates two doors that leads into a walk-in closet beyond.

Built in bookcases wrap both sides of the room and dramatically rise to the peak of the roof, framing an entry to a secret mezzanine above. Shelves are carefully composed to accommodate books, CDs, records, and art of various sizes, including a small safe that was discovered in the home during demolition.

The third floor of the home was conceived as an adult retreat above the busy routine of everyday life. Overlooking the rear yard, the library opens onto a roof deck for outdoor relaxation with a good book, or hosting close friends in the evening with views over the city skyline and CN Tower.

As you approach the home, it appears to rest among the trees.

Upon entering the front door, the blend of old and new is immediately apparent. The traditional details of the more formal front of the house, such as the wainscoting and crown molding, dissolve into a modern glassy addition that affords a view straight through to the lush oasis behind the house - drawing you in to the home with a glimpse of what’s beyond.

A custom marble mosaic with brass inlay takes its cues from the geometry of the glass sidelights by the door, which are original to the home. The chandelier and front door are also original and have been refurbished to bring new life to the entry. The new hardwood floors have narrow planks, a feature typical of traditional North Toronto houses. The clients prioritized keeping the original wear and patina on the old front door knocker – embracing the history of the home.

The more formal front of the home embraces the spatial layout of the original house. The living room and dining room flank the foyer, with gracious French doors that provide framed views through the spaces, while also allowing them to be enclosed when needed.

The kitchen acts as the transition point between the formal spaces in the front of the house and the more contemporary, laid back rear. Traditional touches such as the large ceramic apron front sink are blended with contemporary flat front cabinets, and playful beadboard and tile compositions on the walls.

The living room has a casual, laid-back feel with bohemian touches reminiscent of mid-century California design. The palette is neutral, but warm and inviting.

The existing two story addition was demolished and replaced with a new, single story double height space. The new glass box houses a casual seating area with lofty, uninterrupted views to the forested, ivy covered hill behind the house.

Seen from the slope behind the house, the new addition appears as a striking black and glass volume attached to the white, original house.

The double height space allows for views to the backyard from the second floor stair and landing, as well as the first.

The ceiling in the master bedroom was opened up to create a vaulted ceiling. Finished with a palette based on whites and neutrals, the room feels airy, light, and serene.

The master ensuite features a generously sized built-in tub as well as a steam shower. The neutral palette allows the view of the trees outside to be the main focal point, and pop of colour.

The wall separating the kitchen from the rest of the ground floor was removed to re-connect the kitchen to the living and dining areas. A large island offers integrated wine storage, seating, and a place to gather while preparing meals. A strip of marble hex tile stretches from the back door to the kitchen entry, defining the pathway through the kitchen to the outdoors.

A geometric yellow tile backsplash adds a saturated pop of colour, and picks up on the brass glow of the inside finish of the island pendant lights. New windows were added to the back facade to bring in light and offer views to the back yard.

A built-in bench and storage area is tucked beside the backdoor, creating a subtle landing place when entering from the backyard.

Modern details in the design reference existing elements in the home. A minimal, simplified railing to the basement stair takes its cues from the Victorian railing on the stair to the second floor.

Marble hex tile meets the white oak floor at the island, to create a flush, seamless transition between materials.

A new back deck integrates a barbeque, dining area, and bin storage below. Located just off the kitchen, it creates a physical and visual connection between the interior and the exterior.

In the foyer, the door and sidelights were replaced with a new, more modern composition inspired by Californian modernism. The clients worked with an artist to create custom wallpaper which provides immediate visual impact when entering the home. The graphic, colourful artwork sets the tone for the rest of the rooms as spaces that celebrate art, and bold, fearless design.

Abundant natural light in the south facing kitchen and family room allows for a dark, rich material palette without it ever feeling heavy or overbearing. The combination of ample sunlight, along with brighter touches like white marble and concrete-esque floors, means the rooms still feel crisp and open despite darker colours and textures.

The family entertains often and hosts large family dinner parties. A custom two-level marble island spans the entire length of the kitchen and offers bar and table seating for 9, allowing the whole family to gather together in the kitchen, separate from the formal dining room.

For more intimate, day-to-day living, the breakfast nook opposite the island offers a light filled, airy, yet cozy place to enjoy a meal.

The marble in the kitchen is treated, and lit, as if it were a piece of art. The large backsplash is framed by the contrasting black millwork. A custom composition of sculptural rectilinear lights appears to float in the air above.

The bar also features a full-height marble backsplash and custom glass shelving, which stores the more decorative entertaining ware.

The family room lies just off the kitchen, and features an all new fireplace wall, and new furniture and lighting. The clients’ love of graphic elements, stark contrast, and rich texture are reflected in the sumptuous, yet inviting space.

A suede wallcovering with a three-dimensional relief pattern lines the wall that frames the view into the kitchen, and provides a luxurious backdrop to suspended artwork and floating desk and shelves

The illuminated shelves provide task light for the workstation, and wash the wallpaper in soft light.

The fireplace wall is composed of marble, walnut wood, and blackened steel. It’s strong, orthogonal composition anchors the room, and features both art display space, and a slim bench for guests to perch on.

In the powder room, playful and dramatic wallpaper is a tongue in cheek reference to famous paintings, art history, and art collecting. An art light over the vanity mirror provides a surrealist touch, framing the viewer’s reflection as if it were art as well.

The home's main feature is a composition white and steel-wrapped cabinets that continues from the kitchen and soars up to the second-floor mezzanine as a bold gesture linking the two spaces.

A spacious kitchen is large enough for two to cook at once and features a double wall oven and wide gas cooktop. The geometric backsplash tile organically dissipates along the side wall.

The dining table occupies an especially lofty location with over 20 foot ceilings and generous amounts of daylight flooding in from the windows above.

The millwork wall is composed of an interlocking combination of white and cold-rolled steel custom wrapped doors; where they pull apart, the backsplash tile is revealed, thoughtfully illuminated by under-cabinet LED lighting.

In the kitchen, the geometric backsplash tile mediates a dialogue between the stark white cabinetry with integrated linear pulls, and the textured industrial patterns that mark the steel upper-cabinet doors.

This project seeks balance through a play of contrasts between old and new; open and closed; starkness and coziness.

The kitchen and dining room occupy bright lofty spaces while the bedroom is tucked  under the warmly lit mezzanine floor.

When the bedroom bifold doors and the powder room pocket door are closed, they all align perfectly to close off the private zones of the house from the common spaces of the ground floor.

Tucked away, an efficient powder room acts as a guest bathroom and shower, but disappears completely when not in use.

A new stair is divided from the entryway by a wood privacy screen and winds upstairs to the mezzanine, and then further up onto the roof terrace above. The original brick wall is left exposed along this wall and was stained to a soft, muted grey colour. Storage for bikes and luggage is cleverly tucked below the staircase.

Below the mezzanine, the master bedroom is a cozy, warm retreat that stands in contrast to the lightness and whiteness of the rest of the home. Steel beams and the wood decking are exposed on the ceiling above to maximize the available height, and the bed is tucked into a wall of millwork that includes plenty of clothes storage, and niche shelves on either side of the bed.

Exposed steel beams are celebrated as remnants from the building's previous life. LED strip lights accentuate the rich texture of the steel and bounce light off the exposed wood decking above, casting a warm glow throughout the bedroom.

The ensuite bathroom is tucked away and features a spa-like built-in tub and shower. A beautiful black limestone with subtle coppery veining is a luxurious backdrop to the room.

A small shower niche is carved out of the side wall to provide a ledge for soaps and shampoos. 

Upstairs, the mezzanine space serves as a relaxed living space for lounging, entertaining, and TV-watching. North-facing windows and a large skylight provide generous amounts of light, which filters down to the floor below.

In winter months, the wood-burning fireplace serves as the focal point for the room. Steel-lined shelves in the adjacent millwork are a durable and convenient place for firewood storage.

In summer months, the roof terrace, and mezzanine work in tandem as an indoor-outdoor space for entertaining and lounging, with a view of the sky.

Mounted on an adjustable arm, the TV shifts upward for movie-watching to an ergonomic height for ideal viewing, while remaining discreetly tucked away when not in use.

The new sleek materials were carefully composed to juxtapose the warm brick wall and exposed wood ceiling joists, creating a harmonious balance of old and new

Feature steel and glass stair provide a focal point in the space

Rich, wood elements balancing cool, sleek, reflective surfaces

A unique, carefully crafted intersection of spaces and materials

The client's desire for a kitchen that 'felt like a machine' informed the selection of robust, commercial-grade finishes, hardware and fixtures. 

The composition of materials, dropped ceiling, and millwork storage element work to distinguish the entrance to the home

Storage closets were designed around three vintage metal lockers, one for each child in the family. Inset metal floor grate captures dirt and mud at entrance

Switch cover inset into entrance millwork 

The projection of the dropped ceiling expands the entryway, while the millwork acts as a warm wood backdrop for the living space

Open-tread stair allows for maximum light and visibility through the space 

In the open studio area, a vibrant blueprint-blue chalkboard 'idea wall' - a nod to the client's industrial design background - acts as a surface for playful messages, drawings, and homework

Trough sink allows all three children to brush their teeth at once. Inset open wood shelves are custom designed to hold bathroom accessories

Carefully composed shelving placement

Steam shower fits full family of five

Oversized porcelain floor tiles with board-pressed concrete texture was chosen to compliment the industrial material palette, while maintaining a spa-like sophistication 

A bright, generous bathroom for a family of five to share comfortably 

Whimsical elements integrated into the functional design, add subtle splashes of colour into the space

Off-the-shelf glass containers are inset into wood shelves to allow for the orderly storage of bathroom supplies

Stainless steel toothbrush holders for each of the three children are inset into the wood shelves

A screen composed of wood slats redirects the flow of traffic upon entry to the house, creating a sense of separation between the entryway and adjacent living room. A bench with built-in shoe storage is nestled into the front bay window, and a long wall of closets accommodate jackets and outerwear, sports equipment, and cleaning supplies. By gradually changing the angle of the slats across the screen, we were able to provide privacy for the family room, while permitting light to penetrate deep into the house from the front window and door.

The front door and entryway are clearly delineated by a wood screen that appears solid from some angles to provide privacy, and almost disappears from other vantage points, to allow light to pass through.

A neutral palette of white and light wood is accented by pops of colour, and the black basalt tile used in the kitchen and on the fireplace.

Solid birch slats are meticulously fastened to white painted steel fins at the floor and ceiling, and create an interesting play of light and shadows, particularly in the early morning light.

Despite being close to the front door, the living room feels comfortably enclosed by wood slats that are angled to provide privacy from the street while sitting on the generous sectional sofa, but still permit light to shine into the rest of the house.

Rotating the bottom three steps of a new wood staircase allows for a more spacious living room, and makes for an interesting moment of pause between the two floors, when the two wood screens overlap momentarily.

Subtle nuances like the angle of the wood floor were carefully considered when composing views in this project.

The new gas fireplace, clad in a unique black basalt tile, anchors one side of the house as part of a careful composition of volumes along the wall. The wall contains an ample amount of storage including full height closet space, as well as banquette seating that flips up to accommodate blankets, toys, and an air vent in front of the window. The couple’s beautifully curated collection of art stands out against the bold composition of the fireplace and closets.

The banquette seating is an efficient way to accommodate a full sized dining table within a small urban home.

A bold, black basalt tile backsplash folds up the wall and onto the ceiling, and is punctuated by three walnut boxes that house pendant lights over the island and store kitchenware near the main prep space. Bar seating at the end of the island is perfect for quick morning breakfasts, and snacks after school.

A large new window at the back of the house floods the home with natural light. The custom angled wine storage shelves at the end of the island subtly picks up on the angle of the floor.

The walnut boxes and appliance shelf provide easily accessible space for storing frequently used items while keeping the countertop clutter-free for preparing food.

The black tile is a bold graphic gesture that defines the kitchen space within an open-concept floor plan, and relates to the fireplace in the living room - visually, and conceptually, these are two ‘heaths’ that anchor the home and attract the family to gather around.

Addition shown glowing at dusk 

Original brick coach-style house with new cedar-clad addition

New private balcony aligned with alleyway below

Balcony designed to strategically allow for open views across the city while maintaining privacy 

In warmer months, the full-glazed sliding door allows the room to extend to the exterior

Created to echo the experience of a boutique hotel suite, opening the bathtub to the rest of the room allows for an intimate sharing of the space

Heated stone floors elegantly define the wet area while maintaining the openness of the space 

Custom-designed mahogany millwork integrating bathtub and sink into a single element 

Flipper boxes for shoe storage are one of many ways storage spaces was maximized and cleverly concealed 

Wall-mounted tv swivels to allow for viewing from bed, bath and balcony

Millwork units double as a room wall, and frame view to the exterior

Interior and exterior elements throughout the house reflect a consistent approach to proportion and detailing of materials

In the living room downstairs, two large grey velvet sectionals maximize seating and entertaining space, while still feeling luxurious and contemporary.

New brass cabinet pulls, herringbone backsplash, and grey marble countertop make the room feel rich and contemporary.

The existing kitchen layout was very functional, so new appliances were placed in the existing locations to keep the cooking triangle intact.

The dark herringbone backsplash contrasts with the existing high-gloss dusty pink cabinets, making the colour pop while adding depth and texture to the material palette.

An existing glass block pyramid window was replaced with a clean square window to modernize the look and provide better light to the room.

The clients wanted to add a place in the kitchen for family and friends to gather together. A custom pink velvet and white oak banquette, mother of pearl table, and brass sconces provide a comfortable, elegant, place to linger over a cup of tea with friends.

The dining room beyond the kitchen is glimpsed through a connecting doorway. The updated kitchen harmonizes with the rest of the house, while being its own distinct space.

Teak wall and ceiling panels frame the kitchen and path to the back door and complement the open layout and back window of residential designer, Dean Ruffalo of Dero Designs.

Earthy and elegant kitchen finishes, pulls, and careful detailing, along with teak wood panelling, were chosen to enhance the kitchen which had initial design done by residential designer Dean Ruffalo, of Dero Designs.

The selection of finishes, fixtures and furnishings was made in close consultation with the client, and lends the space a distinct character

A wrapping of teak panels is mirrored at the front of the house, delineating the entrance and exit passages and creating an architectural unity in the space

An iridescent and graphic wallpaper form a contrasting backdrop to the art deco inspired handrail design

The millwork elements work to define a clear design structure and identity to the ground floor, while maintaining the flexibility of an open-space concept.

These multi-functional panel units contain storage and seating elements, and are accentuated with specialty lighting. 

The major design gestures works in synergy with the smaller, more carefully detailed elements, such as the stair rails and treads

The custom designed mirror cabinet and display shelving, along with selection of fixtures and tiles, make this compact washroom layout simple and striking

Glass pendants, wall to wall mirror and suspended vanity come together to create an elegant and bright ensuite
 

From the street, the fresh baked bread products are displayed to passing pedestrians within the valuable amount of window space. Reminiscent of the bread-packed storefronts of old European bakeries, the street-level display entices people in to the store.

The view upon entry is focused through a glazed opening that overlooks the production bake shop beyond, highlighting the process of bread-making and providing an opportunity for the public to witness the care and craft of bread-making.

The entryway provides glimpses into the shop beyond through carefully composed wooden slats, without revealing the entire space at once.

The simplicity and rigour at the core of the baking process are reflected in subtle details throughout the space. A wood screen and patterned tile floor reference the shapes and patterns of a wheat field with a simplified geometric motif.

A graphic tile pattern suggests a flow for foot-traffic through the small storefront to avoid congestion at check-out.

The design uses a restrained palette of durable, quality materials: steel, wood, and painted brick to create a humble environment where the bread is allowed to shine.

Custom wall graphics by Doublenaut Design feature signature landmarks of the Riverside neighbourhood woven cleverly with the ingredients and processes of bread-making.

The bread wall is filled daily and usually sold out by late afternoon, featuring adjustable metal shelving that allows the millwork to accommodate changing seasonal offerings and products.

Aligned to the exterior window mullions, the vertical wood dividers feature a custom-designed peg-board system that supports powder coated mesh metal trays - some flat, some angled to better display loaves of bread.

Concealing the mullions creates the illusion that the bread wall could almost open directly onto the street - connecting with the neighbourhood and passing pedestrians.

The glazed opening in the entry offers visitors the opportunity to pause and watch the bakers at work. Showing visitors with the craft, labour, and care of the baking process builds connection between the community and the bakery.

The back of house production space is the heart of the bakery. Bright, clean, and flexible workspaces allow the production space to adapt to the changing tasks at hand as the workflow adjusts throughout the day.

A refined, wood reception desk design by Alex Arnott Design, greets visitors and employees upon entering the office. A glazed partition containing the conference room serves as the backdrop to the reception area. The graphic is a modern abstraction/re-interpretation of classic law book spines and represents the edgy and contemporary culture of many of the law chambers.

A custom glass film is applied from floor to ceiling to provide privacy at eye-level while still permitting light to penetrate through the conference room. The texture is inspired by the spines of law books with their characteristic banding and embossed gold text, blown up dramatically in size.

A cozy seating area is tucked away near the reception for guests and clients to wait between meetings, and for employees to relax throughout the day.

An ensemble of midcentury furniture, and a bold, rich colour palette are in stark contrast to many sterile, downtown law offices. Bringing touches of residential design into the workplace helps to humanize the office experience, and create a comfortable, productive environment.

The conference room features a long, custom walnut table, and features views overlooking the busy activity of Spadina Ave below.

The glass film provides just the right amount of privacy required for meetings to continue without the visual distractions of people coming and going from the reception area beyond.

The open plan office embraces and celebrates the building's heavy timber bones. Drywall is used judiciously to define paths of travel, and provide opportunities for recessed lighting where required, without overwhelming the heavy timber structure or robbing the interior of its industrial charm.

Elsewhere, a textured glass plane, and small strip of drywall ceiling helps to delineate the common areas (kitchen) from circulation paths and offices, without making the interior feel boxed-in. The textured graphics references the traditional banding found ubiquitously on spines of law textbooks.

A bank of full height closets are tucked discreetly off the reception area for communal jacket storage.

Custom, extra-long, walnut closet pulls are subtle details that elevate the space.

Open workstations are aligned to the heavy timber columns whereas closed spaces line the perimeter, creating an interior streetscape. Common meeting rooms are treated with a custom graphic film, like the conference room, to distinguish them from individual offices.

The wood structure's richness is contrasted against floating planes of crisp drywall.

A corner office includes a generous work desk, and lounge area for more casual meetings.

The corner office lounge includes two custom tables with olive green metal bases. The round coffee table has a glass top that showcases the law book-spine graphic also found on the conference room glazing.