Heath Residence

Situated on a uniquely long lot for the city of Toronto, this new home is designed for generous indoor and outdoor living for a busy family of five. The ground floor is separated into two zones which flow around a skylight-lit stair in the centre of the house. Facing the street is a formal entertaining area with refined details and finishes. The private family zone, located two steps down at the backyard level, breaks away from formality, for every day living. Long views through the house on either side of the stair bring cohesion to the plan.   

The proportions of the front and back elevation were carefully balanced to allow the house to sit quietly amongst its neighbours. A contemporary shape and generous glazing is offset by soft and variegated brick cladding. The rear elevation is broken up by a large poured in place concrete chimney connected to a double sided wood burning fireplace that sits between the family room and breakfast room.

The house sits on an ICF foundation and is built with heavy gauge steel studs and joists. In-floor radiant heat, spray foam insulation and large, operable, triple glazed windows create a tightly sealed building envelope that is efficient to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer.