THE ARGYLE
A gut renovation of an Ossington area rowhouse for creative professionals and a family of four
PROJECT SUMMARY
The house was originally constructed around 1880 as part of a row of four small two-storey homes. Subsequent renovations completely denuded the house of any original details, leaving it with a bare and characterless appearance. Based on its age and roof shape, the façade may originally have been in the Second Empire style.
Our project began in 2019. Our clients had recently returned to Toronto after a long stint in Brooklyn, New York, similar to our own personal journey. We bonded over the shared experience of rowhouse living and explored the unique possibilities this particular house and neighbourhood had to offer, creating personalized design solutions throughout.
Our clients wanted a home filled with natural light, ample storage, cozy nooks, and a ground-floor powder room, along with a stronger street presence and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We renovated every floor, opened up the main floor to improve connection between the living spaces, reimagined the façade, and revamped the backyard. A mix of natural materials, colour, pattern, and texture brings warmth and character to the home.
Location: Toronto
Scope: Gut renovation
Contractor: Habitude Inc.
Landscape: Garden Party
Garage muralist: Peru Dyer Jalea
Entry lettering: Chris Rouleau
Photographer: Scott Norsworthy
Interior stylist: Margot Austin
As seen in Style At Home
THE TRANSFORMATION
Every renovation begins with seeing what a home could become.
FRONT FACADE
The façade was reworked with a projecting bay, new windows, cornice detailing and a redesigned entry canopy, bringing character and presence back to the street.
KITCHEN
The original enclosed kitchen was opened up and reorganized around a generous central island, with custom cabinetry, natural oak and marble bringing warmth and light to the centre of the home.
LIVING
The living room was transformed from dark and disconnected to bright and inviting. We moved it to the back of the house and added expansive windows overlooking the backyard. Trim details add texture and character, creating a warm, welcoming space for family life.
THE CENTRE
The dark, compartmentalized main floor was opened up to create a brighter, more connected heart of the home. A new kitchen, central island, and staircase with decorative railing bring light, function, and a stronger connection between the main living spaces.