Located in the neighbourhood of Westmount, known for its architectural heritage and preservation of Victorian style homes, this semi-detached house was a big undertaking for a young family. An investigation into the structure revealed a far bigger project than they originally expected. The conclusion was to demolish everything inside except the main staircase, solidify the structure, and re-build in the spirit of this neighbourhood home.
The plan on the first floor consists of large, connected rooms, starting with a parlour room off the entrance, a feature which remains faithful to the original home. The circulation and sight lines from front to back are unobstructed, so kids are always in sight. Connecting these rooms is an enfilade of thickened walls that double as storage and mechanical shafts. At the back is the combined kitchen and dining for large gatherings. On the second floor, in a notable carryover from the original home, the sunroom was converted into a double office.
Except for new windows, new acrylic finish, and a rebuilt porch entrance, the façade of this Victorian house remains unaltered. Inside, plaster walls and walnut furniture add warmth to the kitchen. In the bathrooms are tactile finishes like micro cement and low-relief tile. While the new interior is a departure from the original, the staircase banister is preserved to harmonize the old with the new.
