Look, we're not gonna sugarcoat it - these projects were tough. But that's the stuff we live for. Each one taught us something new, pushed our limits, and honestly made us better at what we do. Here's the real story behind the finished photos.
Location: Toronto Beaches | Completed: 2023
Client came to us with a 1960s bungalow that was... well, let's just say it'd seen better days. The bones were solid though, and the lot? Absolutely killer views of the lake. We convinced them not to tear it down - way more character in a thoughtful reno.
Original structure had zero insulation, single-pane windows, and the layout basically ignored that gorgeous waterfront. Plus, heritage restrictions meant we couldn't mess with the street-facing facade too much.
Before - original 1963 structure
After - contemporary addition
The result? Energy bills dropped by 73%, and they're actually generating surplus power in summer. The new great room opens completely to the lake side with 20-foot sliding doors. Honestly one of our favorite projects to date.
Location: Junction Triangle, Toronto | Completed: 2022
This one's special to us. Old wire factory from 1912 that'd been sitting empty for years. Developer wanted to gut it and go full modern, but we pushed back hard. You can't replicate that century-old brick and timber character.
Structurally sound but totally outdated systems. No proper HVAC, electrical was a disaster, and zero accessibility features. Had to bring it up to current code while keeping that industrial soul intact.
Exposed the original timber ceiling structure - way better than drywall
Now it's home to design studios, a small ad agency, and a bunch of freelancers. The vibe is exactly what we hoped - creative energy but still productive workspace. They're at 98% occupancy and there's a waiting list.
Location: Dovercourt Village | Completed: 2023
Here's the thing about Toronto - we've got all these underutilized laneways. Client owned a typical narrow lot and wanted to build a secondary dwelling out back. City's finally making it easier, so we went for it.
Super tight footprint - only 16 feet wide. Height restrictions 'cause of neighboring properties. Had to maintain tree canopy. Oh, and laneway access only, so everything had to come in through a 12-foot corridor. Fun times.
Started with basically an unused parking pad and overgrown fence line
Honestly surprised at how bright it feels inside despite the narrow width. The light well does magic - brings natural light right down to the main floor. Client's daughter lives there now, and it's helping with their mortgage. That's what we call a win-win.
Location: Queen Street West | Completed: 2021
This was our introduction to heritage work, and man, it's a whole different game. Victorian-era commercial building from 1889, designated heritage property. You're basically working with one hand tied behind your back - in a good way though, keeps you creative.
Building had been "renovated" four times, and every decade they'd covered up the good stuff. Drop ceilings hiding ornamental plaster, drywall over brick, vinyl over original hardwood. Our job was basically archaeological excavation followed by painstaking restoration.
Found this tin ceiling under three layers of drywall - took us two months to restore it properly
Working with the heritage folks was actually pretty cool once we got the hang of it. They care about this stuff as much as we do. The building's got another hundred years in it now, easy.
We've got way more photos, technical drawings, and lessons learned from each of these. If you're working on something similar or just curious about our process, let's grab a coffee and talk through it.
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5-story mixed-use building, targeting LEED Platinum. Breaking ground was delayed but we're finally moving dirt. Expected completion: Fall 2025.
Still in design phase, working closely with local residents. This one's all about accessibility and creating genuine community space. Lots of workshops ahead.
Adaptive reuse of old industrial waterfront - converting to residential with major public realm improvements. Navigating approvals but we're optimistic.