Hazel Flat

A renovation of a two storey 113 sm/1,225sf flat in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood: A former rental unit was renovated into a pied-à-terre for clients that visit the city frequently and plan to eventually retire there. Un-renovated since the original 1970’s construction, the finishes were updated and the layout re-imagined to create a sense of warmth and more emotional feeling than more common condominium units in the city. Natural light, views and a connection to the outdoors were prioritized. For both budget and environmental reasons, care was taken to make only essential and impactful changes that would bring personal character or improved function. The layout was arranged around simple daily rituals.

On entry, a white oak closet and bench to set down the grocery bags or to change one's shoes are contained in a single sculptural element that includes the stairs leading to the second floor. Moving around the central walnut cabinet facing the living room, a niche that houses a bar for cocktails is carved out, to mix cocktails when entertaining or simply unwinding at the end of the day. The open concept living room and dining room where the couple enjoys breakfast together are washed with bright east morning light from the sliding glass doors from the lower patio. The kitchen was reconfigured for better flow and ease of use and a view of downtown is captured from a single south facing window.

The walnut storage cabinet both divides and connects the main spaces: screening the stairs and the entry from the living room and working to visually contain the kitchen. Suspended off the floor and away from the ceiling, sunlight from the large sliding glass patio doors is allowed to pass above and below, providing natural light deeper into the space and giving a sense of continuity and spaciousness.
The natural materials, slate floor tile, walnut cabinet and white oak credenza and flooring - offer a sensuous warmth that age well over time.

A glass guard allows the light from the 2nd storey patio to spill into the stairwell, bringing natural light deeper into the stair. Condominium units rarely have a window in the washroom and tend to feel dark and flat. A crisp and clean mirrored medicine cabinet screens an LED light strip that spans the length of the room, elongating the space and reflecting the light for increased brightness. To calm the space, a matte, textured tile bounces light away softly in the washrooms in contrast to the crisp finish of the glass and mirror.

As Toronto continues to grow and its density increases, using thoughtful strategies for warmth and comfort in compact living can work to create desirable and generous primary residences within smaller urban footprints. Small, meaningful details respond to everyday rituals and visually expand the space. Renovating older urban units and one way to democratize thoughtful and customized interiors within tighter floor plans with minimal efforts.