Located north of downtown Toronto, South Hill house near Casa Loma is a renovation, restoration, and addition to an older brick home. A sensitivity to the existing structure was observed when altering both the interior and exterior while the new addition stands in contrast with contemporary details, larger open spaces, and modernist massing. 

While siting of the project was influenced by local zoning regulations, the new mass also yields to the existing house along the north elevation to celebrate the different periods of construction. While the new addition also utilizes a brick chosen to match that of the existing house and pay homage to the greater Toronto vernacular there is no mistaking what is new vs. old. Across the façade of the existing house as built openings were respected and referenced when conceiving interior layouts. On the addition expansive panoramic openings were used to bring in light and expand the perspective across the leafy tree filled neighbourhood. 

Upon entry one is greeted with a foyer space that frames a new whimsical and softer geometry with curved openings, stairs and double height spaces. This curvaceous approach also acts as a diagram to contrast new vs old as existing openings and room divisions remain rectilinear the openings in the addition and incisions through the existing have softer edges, drawing the eye across, up and through the project. 

A minimalist pallet of wood floors and white walls helps to keep the play of light throughout the project a main theme in home, which changes as the sun tracks across the property. Subtle accent materials are introduced when a more robust approach is required via stone at fireplaces, steel at kitchen islands and a fashion boutique inspired pallet within the closet.