Project size: 5,000 square feet

Program: The goal was to create a multi-unit, multi-generational housing prototype that recognizes the densification of Toronto’s urban fabric.

Location: A corner lot in Toronto's Chinatown

Solution: The structure places a grandparents’ suite below a single-family home. The massing of the house, based upon a multi-generational scenario, intentionally blends the units into a single whole that anchors its urban corner. The extended family shares a ground floor courtyard that connects to interior living spaces via sliding glass doors. Above grade, each family member has a private terrace.

Construction and materials: Recycled bricks—painted white—and red cedar panels compose the building’s façade.

 

Additional Information

Completion date: September 2015

Gross square footage: 5,000 square feet

 

Credits

Architect:

Williamson Williamson Inc.
235 Carlaw Ave., Suite 400
Toronto, ON Canada M4M 2S1
416-703-9271 tel
 

Personnel in architect's firm who should receive special credit:

Shane Williamson, MRAIC
Donal Chong, OAA, MRAIC
Betsy Williamson, OAA, FRAIC
Chris Routley, OAA
Lucas Boyd
Paul Harrison
Sonia Ramundi, OAA
Laurie Le Gall

Engineers:

Structural Engineering: Blackwell


General contractor:

Derek Nicholson Incorporated

 

Photographer:

Bob Gundu

 

Consultants

Landscape: Williamson Williamson Inc. with Michele Pochat

 

 

  

Specifications

Structural System

Wood frame

Manufacturer of any structural components unique to this project: Amvic ICF
LP Solid Start LVL
LP Solid Start I-Joists
 

Exterior Cladding

Masonry: Brampton Brick – Remainders
Prosoco BMC II (Breathable Masonry Coating) – brick paint

Wood: 11/16” x 3 ¼” T&G Western Red Cedar
Sansin Classic ‘Natural’ – exterior stain

Moisture barrier: Typar HouseWrap

Windows

Metal frame: UD ‘Combi-Line’ Lift-and-slide Windows

Glazing

Skylights: Velux Skylight
Artistic Skylight
Doors

Entrances: Protec ‘Classic Aluwood’ Entry Doors

Special doors: Clopay Garage Door by Adams Door Systems

Interior Finishes

Demountable partitions:

Cabinetwork and custom woodwork: BL Woodworking

Paints and stains: Benjamin Moore ‘Regal’ - interior paint

Raised flooring: ¾”x4” rift-cut white oak solid wood flooring

Special interior finishes unique to this project: ¾”x4” rift-cut white oak solid wood flooring

Lighting

Interior ambient lighting: Nelson Bubble Lamps, Design Within Reach

Dimming system or other lighting controls: Lighting controls, LeGrand 'Adorne' switches and receptacles.

Energy

Add any additional building components or special equipment that made a significant contribution to this project: Walkway pavers: Unilock Double Holland, Charcoal Grey
Thermory ash deck.