House 21

Scott Norsworthy

• Architects

House 21 - a pandemic restoration of a mid-century modern gem in the heart of Toronto, Canada

Toronto-based firm Izen Architecture completed a mid-century modern restoration that features some carefully preserved historical elements, while modernizing the rest of the home to suit the needs of a young, urban family. The homeowners are two doctors who fought on the frontlines of the pandemic, at two of Toronto's biggest hospitals. The majority of the construction took place during the pandemic, while the couple was also caring for their 3 young children. They moved into their forever home at the end of 2020 and have fully settled in.

photo_credit Scott Norsworthy — Scott Norsworthy

The original space had many historical elements that were carefully preserved in the final home - including this stunning wooden staircase, and the beautiful terrazzo floor at the entryway. New, larger windows place the original staircase firmly in the spotlight it deserves, and flooding the main floor with natural light.

The original terrazzo floor and a repurposed wooden screen - originally a room divider, and now a mirror - at the entryway are juxtaposed with the modern feel of the stone Neolith wall in the family room.

Warm wooden tones recall MCM design principles, while the Neolith wall and integrated recesses for TV, storage and architectural fireplace - an Izen signature - offer modern living to the young family.

A perfectly articulated study, 2 steps down from the main entryway, creates a sun-soaked work from home space (mandatory now!), complete with an open, vapour fireplace.

Just like in the '50s, the kitchen remains at the heart of this home. A small hallway wrapped in walnut slatting opens up to the bright, modern kitchen, where a custom, curved walnut slatted island anchors the room to provide a sociable, functional workspace. Original hardware saved from the demo warms up the matte white flush-mount cabinets - an important design consideration from the beginning.

An entire custom walnut wall of storage - intentionally recalling the original walnut floors - cleverly hides the pantry, refrigerator, a small writing desk, and even a secret doorway to a walk-in pantry with ample storage, sink, dishwasher, and an exterior door to the BBQ.