This $7.5 million Toronto home won an award for architecture
Toronto suburbs often get a bad rap for their perceived lack of vitality, car dependency, long commutes, limited entertainment options and, most damning – cookie-cutter architecture of subdivisions and McMansions.
But back in 1991, Toronto architect Bruce Kuwabara, known for projects like the Massey Hall renovation, was hired to design a living and working space for a family of four in Richmond Hill.
It's one of only two residential homes Kuwabara has designed, and the design of 92 Westwood Ln. completely reimagined what life in the suburbs is like.
As KPMB Architects writes on its website about the project: "The design challenges conventional expectations about domesticity and celebrates the parallel existence of artistic practices and the rituals of daily life."
In fact, the design was so impressive that it won a General Governor's Award for architecture.
The home has since been modernized with the help of Two A Design.
In short, this house is spectacular.
Built on a generous 100 by 250 foot lot, this four-bedroom, eight bathroom house is actually four buildings that are linked by glass elements.
The four light-grey concrete buildings connected by glass create a cool courtyard and garden area.
Initially, the house was designed with a sculpture studio and main living space.
The studio forms one side of the courtyard, and on the opposite side, a conservatory entrance connects the studio and main loft buildings.
The studio and main living space feature unique aluminum roofs and have theses incredible high ceilings and large windows making the space have a loft-like feel.
The studio also is the perfect "work from home" space, getting indirect north light through clerestory windows and stunning views of silver maple trees.
In the main living space, a pair of fireplaces bookend both ends of the "living loft," and a skylight in the kitchen enhances the cozy vibe.
Bedrooms and writing studios are further back, grouped around a landscaped garden court.
Fireplaces anchor the ends of the "living loft," while a striking pyramidal skylight over the kitchen establishes a central focal point within the interior.
Large sliding panels in the main loft and primary bedroom allow for flexible privacy options.
However, as stunning as the home is, the outdoor space is really the star of the show when it comes to 92 Westwood Ln.
The house and gardens offer top-notch privacy, with the front garden set well back from the road to create a secluded front courtyard, now enhanced with new plants to complement the home's structure.
Behind the living area, the central courtyard is a peaceful and stunning space, designed to offer complete privacy and serve as a beautiful focal point for the interior.
According to listing agent Rachel Sekler, the original owner crafted the grounds with artistry, creating terraces and "visual" pathways of water and stone. Every detail, from the plantings to the hand-picked stones, was carefully considered to create a perfect blend of shadow and light.
92 Westwood Ln. is listed for $7,495,000.
Navid Aali for Tyso Media
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