House on the Park

LOCATION

Toronto, Ontario

DESIGN TEAM

Janet Rosenberg & Studio (Landscape Architect)
Superkül (Architect)
EVOQ Architecture (Heritage Architect)
Pencil Design (Interior Design)
Emblem Flower Studio – Todd Caldwell (Horticultural Design Collaboration)

STATUS 

Completed 2022

Photography: Jeff McNeill Photography, doublespace photography

Sitting within a heritage enclave in midtown Toronto, House on the Park comprises a full renovation and restoration of a stately century-old home as well as the addition of a new wing and penthouse bedroom suite. Working closely with architect Superkül and the client, the landscape design sought to unify the grand Edwardian architecture and more contemporary architectural pieces by creating a cohesive flow around the property using a consistent palette of materials framed by planting. The front garden includes a lush lawn that sweeps gracefully down to the park-like setting beyond. Planting beds filled with spring blooms and perennials line the entry walkway to the elegant front door portico. A single specimen magnolia creates a dramatic focal point.

Wrapping around the property a more contemporary garden space is tucked discreetly behind a gate and crisp green hedge includes a swimming pool, spa, and a pool pavilion with an integrated bar and fire feature. The landscape is defined by clean lines and outdoor furnishings in a soft neutral colour palette. The garden provides functional space to relax and entertain. Across the rear of the home an elevated stone terrace provides space for an outdoor kitchen, BBQ, and dining area, and affords beautiful views of the city skyline beyond. The gardens transition softly to the more natural ravine planting that cascades down the natural ridge adjacent to the home. Existing mature trees throughout the property were preserved and protected.

Green roofs are utilized throughout the project, including the roof of the house, garage, and pool cabana. As a green infrastructure tool, the green roofs help to mitigate the impacts of climate change and provide important economic benefits that include lowering energy costs, reducing stormwater runoff, and supporting biodiversity and pollinators. Here, they also form a beautiful and tranquil complement to the architecture and are highly visible from the principal penthouse suite.

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