This project transforms an existing 300 sq ft 1910 cottage; located in a Toronto laneway, into a spacious, compact two-story dwelling.

The lateral and gravity loads of the second story addition are supported on a steel frame, which pierces the old cottage, and is tied to new interior concrete footings.
The addition is then framed conventionally in wood. A folded plane wraps around the new interior forming the faceted roof, which is shaped to provide a generous interior volume and to minimise shadow on neighbouring properties. Rooftop clerestory with a generous overhang gathers heat from the winter sun and shades the interior in summer.