Leaside House

Toronto, Canada

Contemporary Toronto Leaside home with zinc and wood siding and integral garage
Rear yard of modern Toronto home with large cantilevered bedroom with a stone patio and large pool and integral hot tub

This new 4-bedroom home addresses the needs of a family of five and their guests, while incorporating barrier-free design principles as well as a distinct aesthetic appeal.

The house is located in Toronto’s Leaside neighbourhood, surrounded by traditional brick bay-and-gable houses. The desire to subtly integrate the building into the existing streetscape resulted in the selection of traditional building materials such as brick and wood; the contemporary design was emphasized with distinctive grey zinc cladding used as an accent material.

Contemporary kitchen with gable end marble island and counter with brass hanging light and accent tile backsplash
Living room with modern wall fireplace with black stone hearth, floor-to-ceiling windows, modern gray sofa, and cushioned wood chairs
Basement kitchen and dining room with modern german jointed harvest table and green accent wall
Master bedroom trimless walls and wide plank oak flooring
Master bathroom with freestanding tub and stainless tub filler fixture and frameless glass shower enclosure
Living room and dining room with views to wood clad entryway

SUSTAINABILITY FEATURES

  • Program and Spatial Optimization
  • Natural Ventilation and Passive Cooling
  • Natural Daylighting
  • High Performance Envelope Design
  • Renewable and/or Recyclable Materials and Finishes
  • Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Non-toxic Materials and Finishes
  • Radiant Heating
  • Heat Recovery Ventilation
  • Low Energy Lighting & Appliances (LED, CFL lighting and Energy Star appliances)
  • Water Conserving Appliances & Fixtures (low flow/ dual flush toilets)

While planning for wheelchair access was a fundamental part of the design process, the creation of a comfortable family home was the ultimate goal. Efficient, clean design and simple, modern spaces are main features of this 3,200 square foot house. Generous entry hall extends into bright two-storey high dining room space while at the rear, the main living quarters continue seamlessly into the backyard with large window and door openings.

Double height dining room with large wood dining room table and Wegner Wishbone chairs
Contemporary Toronto home with large floor-to-ceiling windows with Juliet balcony and walkout basement and ground floor

Special attention was given to backyard area featuring spacious patio, large pool and spa. Particular attention was paid to natural daylight exposure at the basement walk-out, easing its transition to grade via terraced green wall. Shading is provided by deep roof overhangs and cantilevered volumes.