This 1,000 square-foot laneway suite is crafted for the owners’ mother to age in place independently and close to loved ones. While this property permitted a larger as-of-right structure, the building size was balanced to comfortably meet the needs of the family while maintaining a scale sensitive to the yard space and neighbouring structures. Our team devised a massing that accommodated the homeowners’ modest needs while creating opportunities to incorporate nice-to-have features that make for an enjoyable, personalized space. At the lower level, clearly defined spaces are arranged in an open concept, efficient plan that maximizes Southern daylight at the yard and prioritizes privacy at the lane. Above, the primary focus is a principal bedroom, walk-in closet and an enviable bathroom that mom has always dreamed of. Adjacent, a flexible guest bedroom enjoys views to the yard, leveraging existing foliage for passive shading and privacy.
Considering the well-sized spaces within it’s compact footprint, the Wychwood Laneway Suite successfully minimizes impact on the rear yard and maintained a modest budget without sacrificing any comforts of home. The laneway suite typology can be a sensitive intervention that brings family together, adds value and activates underutilized space.
