Transforming Urban Space: A Laneway House in Parkdale, Toronto

In the heart of Parkdale, Toronto, a once-underutilized parking area has been transformed into a stunning and sustainable laneway home. Designed by architect Zuzanna Krykorka and expertly built by Oriel Renovations, this project redefines urban living by seamlessly blending architectural innovation with high-performance construction.

Zuzanna’s vision for the home focused on maximizing natural light, openness, and a deep connection to the surrounding environment. The design incorporates windows on all sides, creating an airy, inviting atmosphere. The ground floor features an open-concept kitchen, dining, and living space that flows effortlessly into the backyard, where 150-year-old maple trees provide a natural canopy. On the second floor, a spa-inspired bathroom is centered around a skylight that frames the treetops. One of the home’s most distinctive elements is “the oculus”, a large circular window at the top of the stairs that acts as a cooling shaft during the day and emits a warm, ambient glow at night.

Bringing this vision to life required precision craftsmanship and a commitment to high-performance building standards. Oriel Renovations meticulously executed the construction, ensuring that the home adhered to passive house principles for energy efficiency and sustainability. The house features in-floor hydronic radiant heating on both levels, powered by an electric boiler, and a heat pump water heater for domestic hot water. To optimize insulation and minimize energy consumption, dense-pack cellulose was used to retain heat in the winter while reducing the need for air conditioning in the summer. Additionally, the Lunos “breathing wall” system enhances indoor air circulation without ductwork, maintaining both efficiency and a sleek, modern aesthetic.

The exterior design respects Toronto’s garage vernacular while introducing contemporary materials that ensure durability and performance. Wood siding, a steel roof, and high-performance triple-pane windows allow the home to blend harmoniously with its surroundings while maximizing the potential of its 1,020-square-foot footprint. The home includes two bedrooms, a full bathroom, a powder room, and a spacious, open-plan main floor that fosters both privacy and connection to the outdoors.

This project is a true collaboration—a reflection of Zuzanna Krykorka’s architectural expertise and Oriel Renovations’ dedication to quality craftsmanship. By working together, we have created a laneway home that is both beautiful and functional, proving that underutilized urban spaces can be transformed into inspiring, sustainable living environments.