In close collaboration with two Toronto creatives—a designer with a home office and a baker—VTLA transformed this 13 metre x 5 metre downtown backlot into an urban cottage oasis for family gatherings, cooking, gardening, and entertaining. Bringing the outside in, as a continuation of the interior redesign by Sarah Keenleyside (formerly of Qanuk Design), the heart of the home opens into a garden with modern elements in wood, steel, gravel and native plants. 

After a complete demolition and the removal of all of the old perimeter fencing, the long space becomes a series of rooms divided by grade change, surface material, and different moments for pause. A raised prefab concrete planter constructed against the rear fence and planted with Hornbeams, Cornus, and a shady understory of perennial flowers and grasses draws the eye and uncovers the potential of an unused dark space in the rear of the garden. New wood fencing is designed at different heights to offer privacy where needed. A wood deck and steel pergola dining space are set close to the house, and a sunken gravel seating area, bordered by lounge-y wood benches and a central fire pit, is perfect for year-round family gatherings and larger parties. Inspired by the owner’s love of plants, the steel-edged gardens throughout the spaces are designed for foliage contrast, shifting seasonal blooms, and perennial culinary herbs.

“ The collaborative design experience with VTLA was rewarding, especially VTLA’s thoughtful approach to the planting plan, considering colour, texture and the careful selection of native plants we did not know. We appreciated how the design buffers sound from the city, bringing in more light, and improved stormwater/ runoff management, Within a block of College Street, we feel tucked away in this walled garden, with the native plants and trees bringing more birds and bees than we have ever seen before; it is truly an oasis we are thankful for.” ~ Clinton clients. 

Photos courtesy of the client.