The use
of laneways for housing, transport and commerce,
was an important part of Toronto’s urban fabric.
The 19th century city relied on laneways to achieve
density, efficiency, and social economic integration.
During the recent past the laneway has been ignored
and undeveloped.
The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, commissioned
us to study laneways in Toronto, to determine the
potential housing resource, and to develop a series
of prototype house designs.
Our study indicates that the maximum development
of the laneway would increase the housing stock
in old Toronto by at least 5%. This represents an
increase in the municipal tax base of some $11,000,000.
Our prototype designs demonstrate viable, economical
and exciting housing alternatives. |
