The Dollhouse Loft in Leslieville aims to improve aesthetic appeal and functionality

Once a toy and bottling factory throughout the 1900s, the building became live/work lofts in the early 2000s. Source: V2COM

As time wore down the quality of finishes and fixtures, a new opportunity emerged to rework the loft’s spatial dynamics.

Entering the unit reveals expansive proportions that immediately command attention. A moment of compression at the threshold gives way to a soaring double-height volume, illuminated by four generous skylights and a pair of south-facing windows. This interplay of compression and release posed the core design challenge: how to honour the openness of the loft while introducing elements that define more intimate, social zones – without compromising spatial clarity.

A custom platform both delineates the living area from the adjoining kitchen and dining zones and introduces new social configurations. The platform evokes both a Japanese Engawa – a transitional space – and a Greek Agora – a social center and gathering place. These references emerged as the design direction evolved. Here, the platform carves out a quiet enclave for rest, while linking visually and physically to the kitchen through an elevated surface integrated with the island.

On the upper level, a bath pod acts as both a spatial divider between the primary bedroom and ensuite and as a vessel for a secluded soaker tub and shower. Integrated open shelving houses the owner’s extensive library, while softly partitioning the loft office from the rest of the mezzanine.

The design balances the building’s industrial roots with the warmth of contemporary interventions. Corrugated metal cladding on the bath pod recalls the building’s original industrial vocabulary, while white oak and concrete-toned stone bring harmony to the raw textures of exposed brick and timber ceilings.

About StudioAC

Studio for Architecture & Collaboration (StudioAC) is an interdisciplinary architectural practice based in Toronto, led by Andrew Hill and Jennifer Kudlats. The practice was founded in 2015 and has since received numerous accolades, appearing in a number of publications internationally including Azure Magazine’s list of 30 Canadian Architecture Firms Breaking New Ground. In 2019, StudioAC was named Canada’s Best Emerging Designer by the Design Exchange and, in 2021, the practice was selected by 20+Change and Canadian Architect as one of 20 firms across Canada recognized for the approach to practice and strength of projects. In 2023, StudioAC was named Designer of the Year by Designlines Magazine.