Sustainable Toronto Condo
Project scope
We are excited to present a comprehensive and sustainable condo renovation project. With a dedicated client and a team of experts, we have embarked on a journey to transform this space efficiently and thoughtfully.
This project originated from our client’s need to downsize from a single-family home to a condominium, driven by various personal considerations. The condo will accommodate five residents, two office spaces, ample living and entertaining areas, and specialized storage, an extensive art collection, whiskey and wine collections, electric bikes, and five cats.
Design
From the outset, our team has embraced an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) model for this project. This approach offers numerous advantages:
All team members, including the client, builder, designer/architect, structural engineer, mechanical engineer, energy modeler, and interior designer, participate in design meetings from the project’s inception.
Regular meetings are held to discuss project design requirements and progress. Early cost estimates are established to ensure the project aligns with the client’s budget, with various estimates updated throughout the design phase until the project is ready for construction.
The benefits of IPD include:
- Proactively solving issues before construction begins.
- Fostering a collaborative, no-blame culture where team members support each other.
- Reducing costs through early problem-solving and minimizing change orders during construction.
- Saving time by resolving potential issues in advance, allowing uninterrupted progress during the construction phase.
Key Design Considerations
Extensive Art Collection: The design of the millwork and walls was meticulously planned to showcase an extensive art collection. The Stas art hanging system was seamlessly integrated into the plastered walls, creating a pristine gallery-like atmosphere.
Lighting: Designed by Gottesman and Associates, the lighting system was thoughtfully crafted to accommodate the transition from a single-family home to a condominium. The lighting is fully controllable, offering various scenes and settings. It is not only dimmable but also tunable, allowing for color changes from warm to cool white.
Millwork and Kitchen: The kitchen, being the heart of the home, was designed with no detail overlooked. The clients had clear preferences regarding layout, storage, functionality, and aesthetics. Features include integrated appliances, a fully electric induction 48” oven/cooktop, a wine fridge, a hidden pantry, flush pocket doors, a fold-out breakfast/work table, a window seat with drawers, a drip dry rack above the sink, a custom reclaimed ash island counter, and floating shelves with built-in lighting.
Modern Detailing: The project features flush doors without trim, flush baseboards with ¼”reveals, and hidden doors in the main feature wall of millwork. Seamless door hardware was used to blend these doors into the wall paneling, maintaining a clean, modern look.
Storage and Space Optimization: Efficient storage solutions were essential in this condo project. A garage slat wall system was implemented for storing electric bikes, tools, appliances, and equipment. Additional features include cleverly designed multi-use closets and a stackable washer and dryer.
Sustainable Project Features
Our commitment to sustainability and health is evident in the choice of materials used in this project. Here are some key features:
Non-Toxic Materials: We selected healthy, non-toxic materials throughout.
Formaldehyde-Free Plywood and Flooring: Zero added urea formaldehyde plywood and flooring were used.
Water-Based Finishes: All finishes are water-based to ensure a healthier environment.
Zero VOC Paints: Clay-based paints with zero VOCs were applied.
Natural Plasters: Lime-based veneer plasters were used throughout the condo interior.
Locally Sourced Wood Floors: Wood floors from Nadurra, a local supplier, were installed.
Cork Soundproofing: We opted for cork soundproofing, a natural and healthy choice that meets the condo’s soundproofing requirements.
Reclaimed Materials: Countertops and shelves made from reclaimed Ash, sourced from Mick’s personal tree.
FSC Certified Wood: All wood and plywood were FSC certified, ensuring responsible sourcing.
Handmade Tiles: The kitchen floor features handmade local tiles.
Custom Concrete Countertops: The washroom countertop was custom-made by a local artisan.
Low Emission Adhesives: Zero VOC glues and sealants were used.
Efficient Appliances: A condensing dryer and induction cook top were installed to save energy.
Water-Saving Fixtures: Fixtures designed to save water were chosen.
Microcement Finishes: Microcement finishes were applied to the master ensuite, kitchen backsplash, and range hood.
Eco-Friendly Transportation: Site workers were encouraged to use public transit, bikes, or walk to the project to reduce our carbon footprint.
Our dedication to these practices ensures a healthier living environment and a reduced environmental impact.
Project Team
Client: Bettina and James Hoar, Sage Living
Builder: Mick Paterson, Ecostruction
Interior design: Sandra Lester, Affecting Change
Colour and Style: Sharyn Adler Gitalis, Gottesman Associates
Lighting Design: Deborah Gottesman and Sharyn Adler Gitalis, Gottesman Associates
Mechanical engineering: Cara Sloat HAMMERSCHLAG & JOFFE
