To refresh and expand a dimly lit yet resolutely charming Victorian house in Leslieville, Toronto’s Reign Architects added an A-frame third storey while maximizing space within the historic home’s footprint. In the narrow layout, the creation of an open double-winder staircase with a streamlined guardrail made all the difference, creating an airy flow to the two upper floors, both of which feature large tree-facing windows. It also liberated enough space for one especially glorious detail: a luxurious marble kitchen island. A banquette in the front bay window (featuring its original stained glass), floor-to-ceiling white oak cabinetry and full-height glazing in the rear — which fills House Caroline with afternoon sun and provides a direct view of the mature maple tree in the backyard — contribute to a cohesive atmosphere of light and warmth.
Team: Jacob JeBailey with Rushad Dastoor and Nupur Garg; Hummingbird Hill Homes; and Tim Joyce
To refresh and expand a dimly lit yet resolutely charming Victorian house in Leslieville, Toronto’s Reign Architects added an A-frame third storey while maximizing space within the historic home’s footprint.