Argyle

This lane house on a micro lot in downtown Toronto exemplifies the impulse for dense, low-rise urban living. Situated at the corner of a street and lane the building responds to four unique conditions: laneway, street, yard with adjacent house, and zero setback from neighboring garage.

Conceived to acknowledge a Toronto history of house types with a base of masonry construction and inhabited roofs with eaves brought low, the design adapts the building form to modern living requirements. Reclaimed brick with subtle details at the lower levels and crisp metal roofing contribute to forming the street face with understated dignity and add an element of time, the building naturally taking its place by having the quality of already being there.

The Project succeeded through extensive City approvals engaging City Planning and the Committee of Adjustment. The requirement for a basement tight to lot lines on three sides was a technical demand solved by a deep pile foundation.