This home in a mature neighbourhood needed expansion to suit the needs of the client’s family of five. The home required expansion and modernization for daily family life, improved energy efficiency, retrofit to convey the desired Arts and Crafts aesthetic.

The original segregated sitting/dining/kitchen areas were opened up, and a rear mudroom was added. The kitchen was enlarged, casual counter seating added, and the removal of walls converted the first floor bedroom into a family room. Of greatest impact was a second-story enlargement from 150 to 800 sq ft. to include three bedrooms and two bathrooms, achieved by reconstructing the roof with large front and rear-facing dormers. This roofline solution permitted a nondescript exterior aesthetic to be transformed to an 'Arts and Crafts' home.

Energy consumption has been limited by i) expanding the building upwards versus outwards; ii) installing a tighter exterior wall envelope; iii) increasing main story insulation and ensuring modern levels of insulation for the new second story and roof.

The renovation also maximized the solar benefit of southern exposure and a view of the Rideau River with generous use of windows and the addition of a second story balcony. The west face of the home features a new two-story window that captures solar energy and adds drama to the interior.

In keeping with the established streetscape, the revised home includes architectural details to convey a contemporary Arts and Crafts cottage style. Interior elements added to achieve this aesthetic are a stained glass insert in the two-story window, wooden staircase, banister and railings, and built-in bedroom cabinetry.

Construction: Fall/Winter 2009-10