Addition and Renovation in Toronto - Part II
Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 11:55AM The exterior is taking shape on this addition with recently added metal trim at the windows and doors, matching the colour of the window frames. The intended effect is to visually unify the various glazed elements. The large cement panel beside the swing door is a continuation of that effect.
The charcoal grey cement panels are the same colour as the window frames, which creates a consistent, monolithic quality to the addition. The cantilever projection of the 2nd floor will provide some protection from the elements, as well as space for lighting within the soffit. A wooden deck near grade level is forthcoming.
Viewed from the street, the addition takes on a much more modest character. Its height is deferential to the original 1920's house, and its mass is mostly hidden by the existing landscaping. The window sill heights are in keeping with the original house, though their expression, and that of the cladding, is contemporary.
The rear facade is one that will be rarely seen by the homeowners or visitors. From experience on a number of other projects, this is the facade that is typically the least scrutinized or fussed over. Hence the initial composition during schematic design - the first attempt that feels right - is the one that is built. So it brings a not-insignificant level of satisfaction to see it come to life, quietly.
