Concealed, Efficient and Secure Storage was Key for this Laneway Garage: A young family living in Leslieville needed to make the most of the limited available storage space to accommodate their active lifestyles and growing family. They needed storage and easy access for windsurfing equipment, stand-up paddleboards, bicycles and all other types of sprouting and camping equipment. Working with the client, bsq Landscape Architects developed the design to create a modern garage with a lockable, sliding barn door to open up the garage space to the rear yard with a man door for daily use. We maximized the garage height to allow for loft storage at either end and a central hoist for kayaks and canoes to lift from the car roof rack. The rear deck was rebuilt along with the basement walkout steps. Built-in storage was installed along the entire wall alongside the basement steps turning a large amount of unused vertical space into efficient, hidden storage. The porch roof was rebuilt with larger fixed skylights to allow more light to enter the space, and rear windows and a clear cedar ceiling added warmth and beauty throughout. Careful planning made the most of a smaller urban footprint while adding significant value to the property and ensured that we met all zoning, building permit and TRCA requirements.

Oftentimes homeowners come to us with an idea of how they want to update their space. Through thoughtful discussion and truly understanding their needs, we develop the perfect plan together. The previous bathroom was burdened with a large jacuzzi tub, an outdated fiberglass shower, and limited open floor space. Our approach started with a simple shower and bath update and evolved into a complete reimagining of the bathroom. We prioritized fluidity and functionality, repositioning plumbing and overhauling the floor plan to create a space that seamlessly marries practicality with design impact. The new bathroom features a custom knotty alder vanity with toe kick lighting and a sleek quartz countertop. Above, a defogging LED-lit mirror with touch screen controls adds a modern element to the bright and minimal bathroom aesthetic. The new custom shower blends sophistication with accessibility. Simple yet elegant porcelain fluted tiles and glass partitions frame the space, with a low-threshold entrance and strategically placed grab bars to support accessibility. Inside, a custom product niche with cove lighting adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In the end, the reimagined bathroom thoughtfully aligns the homeowner's lifestyle and design preferences.

This lovely Monterey Modern style house on Royal Blvd in Glendale had a 1980’s kitchen without good light or access to the house’s outdoor spaces. To aggravate the flow of the house further, the driveway runs directly to the back of the house where the garage is located off of a motor court. Access to the house by family and friends was naturally happened through the backyard which forced them through a carport and around the side of the house to enter the kitchen directly. The kitchen has a new exit to the side yard and a set of french doors to a new deck. The location of the deck connects the formal living room with the kitchen through exterior spaces in a more immediate way than it is connected through the interior. To create a kitchen that could accomodate a family of cooks and in-kitchen dining, one of the requests of the Client, we combined the existing kitchen, an old utility room, and small breakfast room. The small utilitarian spaces of the original rooms were remade to feel and embrace a contemporary lifestyle, while also integrating seamlessly into the style and scale of this 1930’s vintage home. When working on a kitchen of this scale in a vintage home, we make sure to layer materials and forms into the design so it does not feel out of scale or modernist. The floors are blue slate herringbone and set the color tone for many of the other finishes. We used a quartzite with many of the same colors as the floor for the perimeter counters because of its durability and a light marble with flecks of blue and gold for the eat-in island. The wood on the inside of the windows and doors was stained blue. Cabinets are a combination of white oak and painted with brass screen fronts. The Client has wanted to save some built-in niches from the original breakfast room, but in the end it would have limited the design too much and so included two small radiused end cabinets, one in each cabinet finish.

The Setup When our clients decided to remodel their primary bathroom, the goal was to transform the space into a brighter, more open retreat tailored to their needs. The previous layout, with its enclosed zones and limited functionality, no longer met their needs. By reimagining the layout and introducing thoughtful design choices, we created a modern, elegant bathroom that serves their current and future lifestyle. Design objectives: - Create a brighter, more open bathroom while maintaining privacy. - Provide functional storage solutions without relying on the old linen closet. - Incorporate a freestanding tub, large shower, and a makeup area for added versatility. - Retain natural light from existing windows. - Introduce elegant finishes and accents for a timeless aesthetic. The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: - Reconfiguring the layout while keeping the existing plumbing for the toilet. - Creating storage that houses everything that resided within the linen closet. - Designing clearance and functionality for a freestanding tub, shower, and makeup area within the limited space. - Accommodating the client’s desire for a pocket door in the commode room despite spatial constraints. Introducing accent tile and cabinetry colors that align with the client’s vision yet maintain a cohesive look with the rest of the home. The Renewed Space Design solutions: - Reimagined Layout: Moved the shower from the back of the room, creating a more open feel with additional glass while preserving privacy with a wing wall and bench. The freestanding tub was angled to optimize space and enhance circulation, with textured tile behind it adding visual interest. - Efficient Storage: Eliminated the original linen closet and incorporated functional base cabinet storage and a designated makeup area for added utility. - Optimized Access: Adjusted the depth of the makeup vanity to provide sufficient walkway clearance, ensuring a comfortable flow around the tub. - Tailored Features: Installed a smaller pocket door in the commode room to resolve framing and plumbing limitations. - Elegant Accents: Introduced a subtle marble herringbone mosaic tile in the shower and textured tile behind the tub to enhance the monochromatic palette. Painted cabinetry in a dark gray finish provided a bold yet refined contrast to the light countertops. Final Thoughts: The reimagined primary bathroom is a true reflection of the client’s needs and style preferences. By thoughtfully reworking the layout and incorporating functional yet elegant design elements, we created a serene and practical space that serves as a personal retreat. The result is a timeless bathroom that supports their busy lifestyle while providing moments of tranquility.

Door style: Covington | Species: Eucalyptus | Finish: Truffle with Ebony glaze Showplace convenience accessories were used throughout. These two base cabinets house Showplace roll trays, creating easy access to contents. Showplace Kitchens: http://showplacekitchens.com/ Showplace Wood Products: http://www.showplacewood.com/

Oftentimes homeowners come to us with an idea of how they want to update their space. Through thoughtful discussion and truly understanding their needs, we develop the perfect plan together. The previous bathroom was burdened with a large jacuzzi tub, an outdated fiberglass shower, and limited open floor space. Our approach started with a simple shower and bath update and evolved into a complete reimagining of the bathroom. We prioritized fluidity and functionality, repositioning plumbing and overhauling the floor plan to create a space that seamlessly marries practicality with design impact. The new bathroom features a custom knotty alder vanity with toe kick lighting and a sleek quartz countertop. Above, a defogging LED-lit mirror with touch screen controls adds a modern element to the bright and minimal bathroom aesthetic. The new custom shower blends sophistication with accessibility. Simple yet elegant porcelain fluted tiles and glass partitions frame the space, with a low-threshold entrance and strategically placed grab bars to support accessibility. Inside, a custom product niche with cove lighting adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In the end, the reimagined bathroom thoughtfully aligns the homeowner's lifestyle and design preferences.

Situated in Lancaster county overlooking Amish farms this older home had excellent bones to create a modern, industrial look. The original kitchen had traditional walnut cabinets and a rustic look. The client from San Francisco recognized the potential and hired us to come up with a design that matched their taste and coordinated with the house - modern with a little bit of industrial chic. It was important that the kitchen had counter space, storage, and seating. Space was limited we removed a wall and added a niche wall with the refrigerator. Our client requested lots of storage space to create a clear and uncluttered counter. All cooking equipment and small appliances have a place. A large pantry was created for extra storage. Full height cabinets on either side of the refrigerator provide storage and easy access to small kitchen appliances. Top hinged cabinet doors make storage easily accessible. Drawers were used for base cabinets so that items are easily within reach. Moving from the sink to the range and to the refrigerator is easy with just a few steps between each appliance - making cooking a breeze. Globe lights over the island create plenty of light for cooking, eating or working. Under-counter lighting and hidden hood lighting provide additional brightness. A long marble topped island with a waterfall edge serves as a prep station and counter for serving. The upper counter can be used for seating, standing, and serving. Using a monochromatic palette with wood accents kept the design clean and allows the eye to settle on beautiful details. The results are a functional, open modern feeling kitchen, with a beautiful backdrop of the Amishfarm outside full length windows. It is very special.

Door style: Chesapeake | Species: Red Oak | Finish: Cognac Island: Maple | Finish: Linen with Carmel glaze With its cooktop and oven, the island serves as a cooking space, with lots of adjacent prep surface. The other side of the island opens to reveal roll trays for easy-access storage. The island end is devoted to display space topped with an integrated valance. Learn more about the versatile palette of Showplace painted finishes: http://www.showplacewood.com/ProdGuide1/PGantq/PGantq.html

We took all this in stride, and configured the washer and dryer, with a little fancy detailing to fit them into the tight space. We were able to provide access to the rear of the units for installation and venting while still enclosing them for a seamless integration into the room. Next to the “laundry room” we put the closet. The wardrobe is deep enough to accommodate hanging clothes, with room for adjustable shelves for folded items. Additional shelves were installed to the left of the wardrobe, making efficient use of the space between the window and the wardrobe, while allowing maximum light into the room. On the far right, tucked under the spiral staircase, we put the “mudroom.” Here the homeowner can store dog treats and leashes, hats and umbrellas, sunscreen and sunglasses, in handy pull-out bins.

This 1960’s ranch in Fitchburg, MA had a kitchen with suspended cabinets and a very tiny work area. The suspended cabinets blocked the view of the large window looking at the backyard and made it difficult to visit with friends and family while working in the kitchen. The homeowners were interested in having a kitchen where their extended family and friends could come and enjoy “hanging out” in the kitchen. We removed the suspended cabinets and installed an island where 4 to 5 people could “hang out” and talk to the cooks while they prepare the meal. We also added seating under the window by putting a very practical window seat. The window seat has drawers below for easy access seasonal storage. We also made the cased opening to the dining room larger so when there is a very large gathering a couple of people can sit on stools looking into the kitchen. So now this once “small” kitchen with very limited seating can have several people visiting and yet not be bumping into those preparing the meals.

We were thrilled when our former clients called about their primary bathroom remodel. They were so unhappy with the space that they'd resorted to using it as a storage area, and the entire family shared the hallway bathroom. Some of the most notable complaints were that the vanity and closet area had no privacy from the primary bedroom, making the space difficult to use while someone was sleeping. The oversized mirrored closet doors had settled and could hardly be opened and closed. More minor complaints included the lack of double sinks, limited vanity storage, nowhere for dirty laundry, a small shower, and poor lighting overall. We also had a few architectural limitations. The windows in the home had recently been replaced, so we needed to retain their existing locations. Similarly, the toilet line location was very limited in this second-story room, so we needed to work around the current spot. Our final design included a frosted glass door separating the bedroom and bathroom. This allowed for privacy but retained the natural light provided by the windows in both rooms. We also removed the wall separating the shower and toilet area from the vanity; this made both areas feel larger and more cohesive. The closet doors were replaced with new gliding doors that provide easy access to the entire closet. The updated vanity area includes ample drawer storage and a large recessed medicine cabinet. The cabinets are stained oak, providing a warm natural texture to balance the cool-toned manufactured tiles. The inky-blue glass wall tile is a focal point and adds a burst of color to the room. Between the new vanity and shower area is an open storage system for baskets, towel storage, and a laundry hamper. We reconfigured a small closet in the bedroom to create an inviting and large shower. We opted for a full-width shampoo niche along the rear wall with the same accent tile we incorporated into the vanity area. We added a linear shower drain along the same wall to mirror the elongated niche detail. 'Clear hardware' by-pass shower doors that allow the user to reach the shower controls before stepping in. Overall, the space is bright and calm, with just the right amount of bold color and natural textures. We will soon begin remodeling the hallway bath because the entire family is now using this new space!

Our clients, Erica + Luca, are a power couple each running their own businesses, and for the past six years have also been social parents raising two boys. Their home sits hillside, adjacent to a green space where they have beautiful views, but limited access to enjoy the outdoors. Introspecs created an interior space plan which opens the main level rooms to one another, to both increase visual sight lines + allow separate activities to take place simultaneously. Our goal was to maintain a family-focused house with a large in-kitchen eating island + tons of pantry storage while still honoring adult cocktail hour + entertaining friends. We translated their edgy Euro taste into the finishes which beautifully dresses up the functional layout + resonates with their lifestyle.

The Setup When our clients decided to remodel their primary bathroom, the goal was to transform the space into a brighter, more open retreat tailored to their needs. The previous layout, with its enclosed zones and limited functionality, no longer met their needs. By reimagining the layout and introducing thoughtful design choices, we created a modern, elegant bathroom that serves their current and future lifestyle. Design objectives: - Create a brighter, more open bathroom while maintaining privacy. - Provide functional storage solutions without relying on the old linen closet. - Incorporate a freestanding tub, large shower, and a makeup area for added versatility. - Retain natural light from existing windows. - Introduce elegant finishes and accents for a timeless aesthetic. The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: - Reconfiguring the layout while keeping the existing plumbing for the toilet. - Creating storage that houses everything that resided within the linen closet. - Designing clearance and functionality for a freestanding tub, shower, and makeup area within the limited space. - Accommodating the client’s desire for a pocket door in the commode room despite spatial constraints. Introducing accent tile and cabinetry colors that align with the client’s vision yet maintain a cohesive look with the rest of the home. The Renewed Space Design solutions: - Reimagined Layout: Moved the shower from the back of the room, creating a more open feel with additional glass while preserving privacy with a wing wall and bench. The freestanding tub was angled to optimize space and enhance circulation, with textured tile behind it adding visual interest. - Efficient Storage: Eliminated the original linen closet and incorporated functional base cabinet storage and a designated makeup area for added utility. - Optimized Access: Adjusted the depth of the makeup vanity to provide sufficient walkway clearance, ensuring a comfortable flow around the tub. - Tailored Features: Installed a smaller pocket door in the commode room to resolve framing and plumbing limitations. - Elegant Accents: Introduced a subtle marble herringbone mosaic tile in the shower and textured tile behind the tub to enhance the monochromatic palette. Painted cabinetry in a dark gray finish provided a bold yet refined contrast to the light countertops. Final Thoughts: The reimagined primary bathroom is a true reflection of the client’s needs and style preferences. By thoughtfully reworking the layout and incorporating functional yet elegant design elements, we created a serene and practical space that serves as a personal retreat. The result is a timeless bathroom that supports their busy lifestyle while providing moments of tranquility.

Oftentimes homeowners come to us with an idea of how they want to update their space. Through thoughtful discussion and truly understanding their needs, we develop the perfect plan together. The previous bathroom was burdened with a large jacuzzi tub, an outdated fiberglass shower, and limited open floor space. Our approach started with a simple shower and bath update and evolved into a complete reimagining of the bathroom. We prioritized fluidity and functionality, repositioning plumbing and overhauling the floor plan to create a space that seamlessly marries practicality with design impact. The new bathroom features a custom knotty alder vanity with toe kick lighting and a sleek quartz countertop. Above, a defogging LED-lit mirror with touch screen controls adds a modern element to the bright and minimal bathroom aesthetic. The new custom shower blends sophistication with accessibility. Simple yet elegant porcelain fluted tiles and glass partitions frame the space, with a low-threshold entrance and strategically placed grab bars to support accessibility. Inside, a custom product niche with cove lighting adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In the end, the reimagined bathroom thoughtfully aligns the homeowner's lifestyle and design preferences.

This dark, dreary kitchen was large, but not being used well. The family of 7 had outgrown the limited storage and experienced traffic bottlenecks when in the kitchen together. A bright, cheerful and more functional kitchen was desired, as well as a new pantry space. We gutted the kitchen and closed off the landing through the door to the garage to create a new pantry. A frosted glass pocket door eliminates door swing issues. In the pantry, a small access door opens to the garage so groceries can be loaded easily. Grey wood-look tile was laid everywhere. We replaced the small window and added a 6’x4’ window, instantly adding tons of natural light. A modern motorized sheer roller shade helps control early morning glare. Three free-floating shelves are to the right of the window for favorite décor and collectables. White, ceiling-height cabinets surround the room. The full-overlay doors keep the look seamless. Double dishwashers, double ovens and a double refrigerator are essentials for this busy, large family. An induction cooktop was chosen for energy efficiency, child safety, and reliability in cooking. An appliance garage and a mixer lift house the much-used small appliances. An ice maker and beverage center were added to the side wall cabinet bank. The microwave and TV are hidden but have easy access. The inspiration for the room was an exclusive glass mosaic tile. The large island is a glossy classic blue. White quartz countertops feature small flecks of silver. Plus, the stainless metal accent was even added to the toe kick! Upper cabinet, under-cabinet and pendant ambient lighting, all on dimmers, was added and every light (even ceiling lights) is LED for energy efficiency. White-on-white modern counter stools are easy to clean. Plus, throughout the room, strategically placed USB outlets give tidy charging options.

This single family home sits on a tight, sloped site. Within a modest budget, the goal was to provide direct access to grade at both the front and back of the house. The solution is a multi-split-level home with unconventional relationships between floor levels. Between the entrance level and the lower level of the family room, the kitchen and dining room are located on an interstitial level. Within the stair space “floats” a small bathroom. The generous stair is celebrated with a back-painted red glass wall which treats users to changing refractive ambient light throughout the house. Black brick, grey-tinted glass and mirrors contribute to the reasonably compact massing of the home. A cantilevered upper volume shades south facing windows and the home’s limited material palette meant a more efficient construction process. Cautious landscaping retains water run-off on the sloping site and home offices reduce the client’s use of their vehicle. The house achieves its vision within a modest footprint and with a design restraint that will ensure it becomes a long-lasting asset in the community. Photo by Tom Arban

We were thrilled when our former clients called about their primary bathroom remodel. They were so unhappy with the space that they'd resorted to using it as a storage area, and the entire family shared the hallway bathroom. Some of the most notable complaints were that the vanity and closet area had no privacy from the primary bedroom, making the space difficult to use while someone was sleeping. The oversized mirrored closet doors had settled and could hardly be opened and closed. More minor complaints included the lack of double sinks, limited vanity storage, nowhere for dirty laundry, a small shower, and poor lighting overall. We also had a few architectural limitations. The windows in the home had recently been replaced, so we needed to retain their existing locations. Similarly, the toilet line location was very limited in this second-story room, so we needed to work around the current spot. Our final design included a frosted glass door separating the bedroom and bathroom. This allowed for privacy but retained the natural light provided by the windows in both rooms. We also removed the wall separating the shower and toilet area from the vanity; this made both areas feel larger and more cohesive. The closet doors were replaced with new gliding doors that provide easy access to the entire closet. The updated vanity area includes ample drawer storage and a large recessed medicine cabinet. The cabinets are stained oak, providing a warm natural texture to balance the cool-toned manufactured tiles. The inky-blue glass wall tile is a focal point and adds a burst of color to the room. Between the new vanity and shower area is an open storage system for baskets, towel storage, and a laundry hamper. We reconfigured a small closet in the bedroom to create an inviting and large shower. We opted for a full-width shampoo niche along the rear wall with the same accent tile we incorporated into the vanity area. We added a linear shower drain along the same wall to mirror the elongated niche detail. 'Clear hardware' by-pass shower doors that allow the user to reach the shower controls before stepping in. Overall, the space is bright and calm, with just the right amount of bold color and natural textures. We will soon begin remodeling the hallway bath because the entire family is now using this new space!

The Setup When our clients decided to remodel their primary bathroom, the goal was to transform the space into a brighter, more open retreat tailored to their needs. The previous layout, with its enclosed zones and limited functionality, no longer met their needs. By reimagining the layout and introducing thoughtful design choices, we created a modern, elegant bathroom that serves their current and future lifestyle. Design objectives: - Create a brighter, more open bathroom while maintaining privacy. - Provide functional storage solutions without relying on the old linen closet. - Incorporate a freestanding tub, large shower, and a makeup area for added versatility. - Retain natural light from existing windows. - Introduce elegant finishes and accents for a timeless aesthetic. The Remodel Design challenges to be solved: - Reconfiguring the layout while keeping the existing plumbing for the toilet. - Creating storage that houses everything that resided within the linen closet. - Designing clearance and functionality for a freestanding tub, shower, and makeup area within the limited space. - Accommodating the client’s desire for a pocket door in the commode room despite spatial constraints. Introducing accent tile and cabinetry colors that align with the client’s vision yet maintain a cohesive look with the rest of the home. The Renewed Space Design solutions: - Reimagined Layout: Moved the shower from the back of the room, creating a more open feel with additional glass while preserving privacy with a wing wall and bench. The freestanding tub was angled to optimize space and enhance circulation, with textured tile behind it adding visual interest. - Efficient Storage: Eliminated the original linen closet and incorporated functional base cabinet storage and a designated makeup area for added utility. - Optimized Access: Adjusted the depth of the makeup vanity to provide sufficient walkway clearance, ensuring a comfortable flow around the tub. - Tailored Features: Installed a smaller pocket door in the commode room to resolve framing and plumbing limitations. - Elegant Accents: Introduced a subtle marble herringbone mosaic tile in the shower and textured tile behind the tub to enhance the monochromatic palette. Painted cabinetry in a dark gray finish provided a bold yet refined contrast to the light countertops. Final Thoughts: The reimagined primary bathroom is a true reflection of the client’s needs and style preferences. By thoughtfully reworking the layout and incorporating functional yet elegant design elements, we created a serene and practical space that serves as a personal retreat. The result is a timeless bathroom that supports their busy lifestyle while providing moments of tranquility.

Oftentimes homeowners come to us with an idea of how they want to update their space. Through thoughtful discussion and truly understanding their needs, we develop the perfect plan together. The previous bathroom was burdened with a large jacuzzi tub, an outdated fiberglass shower, and limited open floor space. Our approach started with a simple shower and bath update and evolved into a complete reimagining of the bathroom. We prioritized fluidity and functionality, repositioning plumbing and overhauling the floor plan to create a space that seamlessly marries practicality with design impact. The new bathroom features a custom knotty alder vanity with toe kick lighting and a sleek quartz countertop. Above, a defogging LED-lit mirror with touch screen controls adds a modern element to the bright and minimal bathroom aesthetic. The new custom shower blends sophistication with accessibility. Simple yet elegant porcelain fluted tiles and glass partitions frame the space, with a low-threshold entrance and strategically placed grab bars to support accessibility. Inside, a custom product niche with cove lighting adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality. In the end, the reimagined bathroom thoughtfully aligns the homeowner's lifestyle and design preferences.