Willard

---

This project was looking to fit a lot of use into a small footprint. The client wanted a self contained secondary suite, in a ~600 sq. ft. space. He also wanted to maintain internal access to the unit for future uses.  We had to pull out all the tools in our chest to ensure the space made sense.

As is common in many older Toronto homes, the basement ceiling was too low for comfortable use, requiring underpinning to increase the ceiling height. Through thoughtful design, we strategically placed the kitchen, living area, bedroom, entryway, and laundry facilities to optimize the space’s flow and functionality. However, the staircase, which needed to remain accessible from inside the house, occupied valuable space, limiting the available square footage.

Creative problem-solving was crucial in determining the ideal location for the new entrance. Given the small lot size and access constraints for equipment to reach the back of the house, the most practical solution was to place the secondary entrance at the front.

The renovation included the installation of new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, all within tight tolerances. With such limited space, every detail mattered—if the vanity was mounted even half an inch too high, the medicine cabinet door would not clear the bulkhead. Additionally, the plumbing for the wall-hung toilet had to be precisely positioned within the wall, within mere inches, to accommodate a pocket door and maximize the available space in the shower stall.

A new kitchen, bathroom, and windows were also installed, completing the transformation.

Good design has the power to transform a small space, making it feel much larger and more open. No one wants to feel confined in a cramped environment, so we installed two oversized windows to flood the space with natural light. Positioned directly opposite each other, these windows were strategically placed to maximize the flow of light throughout the room.

To maximize space in the bathroom, we opted for a wall-hung vanity and toilet, as well as a curb-less shower. Pocket doors were also incorporated, saving between 18 to 24 square feet of floor space—an invaluable feature in a city where space is at a premium.

Trim work was added not only for its ornamental value but also for its practicality. Since this unit was designed to be an income suite, with tenants frequently moving in and out, the trim helped protect the walls from wear and tear over time. It was the perfect balance of form and function.