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HALF-LOT Duplex
HALF-LOT Duplex
Toronto, Canada
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Other Projects by PHAEDRUS Studio
HALF-LOT Duplex
Toronto, Canada
Firm
Type
STATUS
Concept
YEAR
2027
SIZE
1000 sqft - 3000 sqft
Half-Lot Duplex explores the latent potential of a rare through-lot (through-block) condition within a typical downtown Toronto residential neighbourhood. Extending from one street to another, the site presents an unusual sequence of widths: a conventional 20-foot frontage with an existing multiplex at one end, tapering at the mid-block, narrowing to just 10 feet, and then 7½ feet at the opposite street frontage. What began as a typical wider lot condition that softened the transition to the adjacent corner lot became, as the neighbourhood filled in, a residual space used for parking, an anomaly within the prevailing street pattern.
What started as an architect-initiated study led to a series of iterations that tested the shared right-of-way condition and responded over several years to evolving zoning and policy frameworks, ultimately resulting in a fifth and most robust scheme.
The project unfolds in three coordinated phases. The first phase renovates the existing fourplex, establishing the architectural and service framework for subsequent interventions. The second phase introduces a large one-bedroom garden suite positioned mid-block, conceived almost as a carefully nestled teahouse apartment. The final phase involves a severance to insert an ultra-slender duplex fronting the secondary street, each unit designed as a generous one-bedroom plus den with secondary living spaces and meaningful access to outdoor areas.
Notably, aside from the minimum lot frontage, the only zoning relief required is a side-yard setback. Symington–Campbell demonstrates how looking beyond conventional perceptions can reveal opportunities to add housing and value. With a pragmatic approach, three new homes replace a single parking space, delivering a responsible increase in density within a 10-minute walk of subway, regional rail, and airport express connections.
What started as an architect-initiated study led to a series of iterations that tested the shared right-of-way condition and responded over several years to evolving zoning and policy frameworks, ultimately resulting in a fifth and most robust scheme.
The project unfolds in three coordinated phases. The first phase renovates the existing fourplex, establishing the architectural and service framework for subsequent interventions. The second phase introduces a large one-bedroom garden suite positioned mid-block, conceived almost as a carefully nestled teahouse apartment. The final phase involves a severance to insert an ultra-slender duplex fronting the secondary street, each unit designed as a generous one-bedroom plus den with secondary living spaces and meaningful access to outdoor areas.
Notably, aside from the minimum lot frontage, the only zoning relief required is a side-yard setback. Symington–Campbell demonstrates how looking beyond conventional perceptions can reveal opportunities to add housing and value. With a pragmatic approach, three new homes replace a single parking space, delivering a responsible increase in density within a 10-minute walk of subway, regional rail, and airport express connections.
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