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Double Duplex

Location: Toronto, ON
Architect: Batay-Csorba Architects
Completion: 2016

OAA Design Excellence Awards Finalist

Double Duplex is located in Toronto’s Parkdale neighbourhood. The existing site was split into two separate properties with a four-storey, 3,500-square-foot detached duplex residence constructed on the two sites. Toronto’s historic neighbourhoods receive very few new low-rise infill models compared to the high to midrise densification of Toronto’s urban core. The project is a response to the city’s need for alternative housing models within costly urban real estate.


Contextual massing concept.
Drawing Credit: Batay-Csorba Architects
Photo Credit: doublespace photography
 
 


Drawing Credit: Batay-Csorba Architects
Photo Credit: doublespace photography
 
 
The Double Duplex is a contemporary response to its context, proving a contemporary infill can respond to a historic context. By abstracting the pervasive bay-and-gable typology, the project becomes a reinterpretation of key architectural elements. Elaborate ornamentation in the form of motifs, mouldings and brick expressionism create the rich façades, large bay massing, steep roofs, and high ceilings with large windows that are all elements forming the project. 

Site plan 
Drawing Credit: Batay-Csorba Architects



Floor plans
Drawing Credit: Batay-Csorba Architects

Axonometric drawing
Drawing Credit: Batay-Csorba Architects

The two-storey brise-soleil was of key importance to engaging the urban environment. The façade wraps around the front balcony, controlling lighting conditions and privacy. The individual wood members are angled to catch light differently depending on the time of day, illuminating a variety of images.


Dining room for the upper unit.
Photo Credit: doublespace photography 


Kitchen for the upper unit.
Photo Credit: doublespace photography 

The project serves as an alternative model of home ownership within the city. It allows property owners to rent out one unit to subsidize their income, employ a multi-generational living approach or enjoy a live-work space.


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