olsendr in Toronto, Ontario

We hired SUSTAINABLE.TO when we decided to renovate our century-old, semi-detached home in Riverdale. We wanted to add space for our growing family by expanding a previously-captured third storey. Maintaining the character of the existing house, increasing openness and natural light, improving the functionality of each floor level, and creating a connection to our back yard were key elements of our design brief. SUSTAINABLE.TO listened to our wish list, and proposed several design options for us to consider. We worked closely with the design team of Paul, Kelsey, and Nicholas, to refine our home into exactly what we wanted. SUSTAINABLE.TO were very mindful of our budget throughout the entire process and were very responsive through the entire process. When deciding to add a third floor, we wanted to ensure the front of the house would retain its character and fit in with the other houses on the street. Our original idea was to keep the small original dormer at the front of the house and to forego gaining headroom. Paul's suggestion to build a larger dormer in keeping with the character of the street allowed us to gain valuable headroom in our new bedroom without disrupting the neighbourhood. These seemingly small touches make us thankful we hired Paul and his team. SUSTAINABLE.TO worked well with consultants and the City to get all of our permits and approvals. Because we were adding a full third storey, we required approval for minor variances from the Committee of Adjustment. SUSTAINABLE.TO prepared the necessary materials, and Paul represented us at the hearing. After presenting our case, the Committee granted us approval for all of our variances!  During construction, the team continued to keep in touch and were quick to respond to any questions and concerns, whether by us or by our contractors. They made themselves available when asked to come by and review construction, and provided guidance and recommendations when needed. When the new dormer began construction, the framer was unsure how to proceed. Paul and Kelsey stopped by to chat with the framer and clarify the design. A few hours later, the dormer was framed, and construction could resume! There was only one instance where the building inspector did not approve the roofing insulation, Roxul, which was proposed by SUSTAINABLE.TO, and we had to get a change order to go with spray foam.   SUSTAINABLE.TO were also very helpful when we were making decision about finishes. For example, when we asked Paul what he recommended for window and door trim that would fit within the existing character of the home, he came back to us within 24 hours with construction details of a trim-work design that we loved for its simplicity and tradition-honouring detail.  We had a great experience working with Paul, Kelsey, and Nicholas and would highly recommend them for any project ...so much so that we have recommended them to our friends ...and they are now happily working together!