The design and layout of the new home has changed quite dramatically since we started this project. As I mentioned before, we had originally set out to build a rather “traditional” home, but we’re clearly very far from that point now. So I thought I’d take a moment and share the various design iterations the house ...
Aside from a few small revisions, we’ve just been informed that our Preliminary Project Review has been approved by the city, and we will not have to go before the Committee of Adjustment. The Committee’s job (among other things) is to review minor variances from the zoning by-laws. Had we exceeded the allowed setbacks or density ...
Altius has definitely been busy. We’ve got updated elevations, updated floorplans, an electrical plan, and now they just finished the first draft of the kitchen elevations. Things are definitely moving along quickly now. I suppose I should also mention the various appliances we’ve selected. We hadn’t actually expected to purchase our appliances so soon, but Altius ...
I just got back from a meeting with the architects, and I’ve got a few updates to share. First, we’ve decided on the windows – it’s looking like we’ll be going with Marvin Integrity windows throughout. They have pultruded fiberglass frames, plus dual sealed insulating glass with an Argon gas fill, and a Low E II coating ...
First, let me say this – Choosing Altius has been the smartest decision I’ve made so far. They’ve been an absolute pleasure to work with, and I really can’t say enough about them. We certainly wouldn’t be building the home we’re about to, had it not been for Cathy, Tao and the team at Altius. That ...
My first instinct was to investigate a prefab solution when we began this project. I find the concept of prefabricated eco-modern homes very attractive, but living in Toronto definitely limited our options… apparently there aren’t many nearby factories. Who knew? I was particularly fond of Michelle Kaufmann’s Sidebreeze, but the shipping costs definitely made it cost ...
And so begins the first major debate of the project—what type of windows do we use: wood or vinyl? Our architect is strongly recommending wood, while our contractor thinks vinyl is the way to go. As always, there are pros and cons to each, but I’m inclined to follow our architects advice. Of course, that decision ...
On Thursday, we made another step towards actual construction as we submitted our latest plans to the city for Preliminary Project Review. The purpose of PPR is for the city to review your plans to ensure zoning compliance and identify if you need to go to the Committee of Adjustment. ...
We’re about 2 months into the design process, and everything is coming together nicely. Our floorplans and elevations are almost complete, and we’re about ready to start choosing the actual cladding and building materials for the house. As part of the design process, our architects have created a small cardboard model for us to review. ...
