A traditional Toronto Victorian was transformed into an open and bright modern home through a series of strategic moves and incisions. Grey and black Zinc was used throughout both the exterior and interior of the home as a material that blends both the traditional aspects of the home and with the new contemporary scheme. Inside a vertical shaft brings light from large skylights down 3 floors illuminating the ground floor while animating a zinc wall and ceiling above the kitchen.
On the 3rd floor, the entire gable has been replaced with an expansive triangular glass window affording views of the neighbourhood and downtown skyline in the distance. A triangular blind shades the window and retracts into a millwork unit when not in use. Outside, the rear facade of the home has been entirely transformed to maximize views of the expansive elm tree behind the house; while in front, a large glass pop-out opens up the home to the street while being protected from the sun and elements by a new zinc awning reminiscent of bygone neighbourhood corner stores. The landscaped berm and retaining walls creates a layer of privacy between the public street and the private home and provides a small area of refuge in front of the home for children to play, complete with theatre seating to watch the spectacle of life unfold.