22/02/10 – Toronto – Townhomes

Murray

Good Morning

I am not sure if this makes much sense, but …

I have been thinking about staircases with regards to circulation issues. On the one hand they are, unquestionably, a practical necessity, possibly, in the majority of homes, particularly in an urban core. Not everyone wants to live on an acreage with a sprawling bungalow.

However, on a less pragmatic, more pie-in-the-sky philosophical level, staircases really seem poor in a design sense with regards to circulation. In today’s feature there are 4 floors – this means an awful lot of stairs, which amounts to a significant number of square feet of living space solely dedicated to circulation (also, per floor, a lot of space is needed for the stairwell). If this were a bungalow all that wasted circulatory space would certainly get a zero.

This issue of multi-storey building also results in a redundancy of spaces- particularly of bathrooms; no one wants to hike up and down multiple flights of stairs to use the bathroom, or for any other reason, though it can be good exercise. This repetition of services seems like a poor design principle necessitated by outside forces.

As I say this is more philosophical than realistic, but these townhouses have made me consider staircases in a different light. I have no solution except a low-energy consuming, possibly manually operated elevator to move from floor to floor, or a jet pack!

John Brown

Murray,
You raise a good issue to discuss. You are correct that stairs do take up a certain amount of space and when the individual floor plates become smaller the proportion of space taken up by the stair increases. In a well designed townhouse the floor areas should not be too small. The staircase should also be in the right place so that the space that remains on each floor is useful.

You are also correct that a single floor unit can result in certain efficiencies, such as a potential reduction in bathrooms and the elimination of the stairs. However, this would not be practical in a townhouse configuration because the density would be too low. It does work for apt/loft style units.

It is very challenging to correctly design a stair in a residential unit. When badly done the stair is awkward and seems to take up too much space. When done well the stair seamlessly fits into the overall circulation and does not hamper any of the other spaces.

In the Slow Home Test, the design of the stair would be considered under Organization. Because of your question I will focus on the stair in tomorrow’s exercise. Thank you for bringing this up.

Murray

Hello John,

Thanks for your feedback. I will look forward to further discussion on the ups and downs of staircases.

Vickie

Comment: Walkability score of 42%
The “Hobby Room” I considered to be the Study room.
I was unsure about points for entry as the door from the garage.

Project Name: The Manors of Gordon Woods

Size: 2180 sq. ft.

Project Address: Harborn rd & Grange Dr.

Project URL: http://www.berkleyhomes.ca/themanors/full/images/fieldstone.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 11

Joti Singh

Comment: walkability – 86/100
At first I had to laugh because I thought that this model was called the ‘asylum’ not the Alyssum. Anyways, I gave of point for the living space since I think you could fit an arrangement of furniture in there, but not one for the dining is I think that there isn’t enough given the proportion, and circulation through. One of the bedrooms has no closet and is clearly undersized. I gave the study point because I didn’t think it was appropriate to have one.

Project Name: The Gardens @ Queen – The Alyssum

Size: 911 sq ft

Project Address: 46-56 Carr St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.chestnuthillhomes.ca/gardens_at_queen/floorplans/alyssum.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Paulina

Comment: This “Energy Star” project is applying for LEED certification. In this case I chose the ‘slower’ unit (the one facing south).

Project Name: Richgrove Village – Birch A

Size: 1005 sqft

Project Address: Martin Grove Rd and Richgrove Dr Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.minto.com/buy-a-condo-in-toronto/Richgrove-Village/Birch-A~318ht.html

Slow Home Test Score: 11

Paulina

Comment: Again, I chose the south and east facing one so that it would get the context points. The walkscore for this project is a 29/100 which is pretty low. The two worst parts of this house, I think, are the dining area(s) and bedroom 3. I can’t imagine having a breakfast table, an eating bar and a dining table within 10 ft of eachother! And what’s up with bedroom 3? How can you call it a bedroom when it clearly won’t fit a bed??? And to think that that extra ‘bedroom’ will add thousands of dollars to the price tag of this home!

Project Name: Richgrove Village – Willow

Size: 1393 sqft

Project Address: Martin Grove Rd and Richgrove Dr Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.minto.com/buy-a-condo-in-toronto/Richgrove-Village/Willow-A~320ht.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Vickie

Comment: Walkability score of 78%
There are not many windows but if reading the plan correctly they are south facing.

Project Name: Posh Condo

Size: 1954 sq. ft.

Project Address: Steeles Av. and Younge St.

Project URL: http://www.poshcondos.ca/floorplans/platinum.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Joti Singh

Comment: Rather good unit. The only issues I see are that this east facing unit will be shaded eventually, when the 2nd phase tower goes up – it’ll also give some unwanted views. The kitchen looks like it’ll be a bit dark, cut off from the windows like that. Otherwise, I gave it an 18 with a star on context (there is a possibility that phase 2 might not go through if this economic thing keeps up).

Project Name: Avonshire – Unit GV20

Size: 1320 sq. ft.

Project Address: 32 Oakburn Pl Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.tridel.com/avonshire/gv/gv20_suite.php

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Mid America Mom

Comment: Beaverbrook Developer
Architect Chandler Graham Montgomery Sisam

I love what I see here.

This development has part of an old printing factory and they then added a condo tower and also towns. Last week I think someone added a condo. This unit has light in front and back with east and west light.

First thing that speaks to me is that the bedrooms are on the lower level. Circulation is confined to around the stair. Somehow we do not know the entry from the plan but I noticed a long closet in the hall at the top of the stair that leads to the entry. For the test we say NO since we do not know what it looks like. I really like that this study has its own closet, wall of light, and door for privacy.

Project Name: Printing Factory

Size: 1189- Cenaur

Project Address: 201 Carlaw Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.theprintingfactorylofts.com/pdf/townhomes/centha_th5-6.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 19

Mid America Mom

Comment: Developer Urban Capital and Quartz Development
Saucier & Perrotte Architects/ ZAS Architects

First Development Phase of the 2000 acres of Harbourfront on the east side. LEED Gold project. Former brownfield. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton- Climate Positive Development Program choose this as one of the projects around the world to be an ideal demonstration of sustainable urban growth.

Lots to like! Only a few issues I found. No site Plan but should I give them benefit of the doubt? I am feeling YES- love that is LEED, waterfront, and cleanuped site.(If I find something later I will post). Dining is in the kitchen. Study is just one large hall.

Project Name: River City

Size: 1200- TH1

Project Address: King and Queen St. East Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.lakeshorehighrise.com/layouts/TH&PH-rivercity.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Alejandro

Comment: A bit of wasted space on the main floor (one floor above grade), but overall quite good. In the living room, I especially like the fact that the windows allow the tv to be oriented on one of the S or W walls without blocking the view/light. This unit has a great roof terrace. I’m not completely happy that bed 2 has a small window only, but it didn’t cause me to revoke the point. The study I considered to be the ‘retail space’ because it can surely be used for many purposes. Overall, I really liked this project. It reminds me of something much older, perhaps Corbusian? I’d get along living here very well I think.

Project Name: 968 Queen West – Unit 01

Size: 2240 sq ft

Project Address: 968 Queen W Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://torontocondos.com/968queen/flash.php

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Joti Singh

Comment: A couple more from this Avonshire project. This time, instead of being in the podium of the tower, these units are in a lower-scale separate building.
Unit 3E got full marks. My only reservations are with the long-ish circulation route with the stair at the one end of the unit, and the master ensuite door opening onto a view of the toilet. In spite of the slightly long circulation, I think that it does a great job avoiding issues with the spaces. Overall, the kink in the plan is handled well, any temptation to repeat angles is withheld, and everything has good access to light and a view! SW facing, with hot W light blocked by the adjacent condo tower (see the site plan).

Project Name: Avonshire: Parkside – Unit 3E

Size: 2302 sq. ft.

Project Address: 42-98 Oakburn Pl Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.tridel.com/avonshire-townhomes/th/3e_suite.php

Slow Home Test Score: 20

Mid America Mom

OOPS! I would expect an 18 for the rivercity I scored- since only Study and Dining Sorry.. cannot edit.

Joti Singh

Comment: The picturesque curve of the facade facing the park creates a lot of wasted space in the unit (see those houseplants in the plan). I’m not sure how I feel about the stair location as it comes up to the roof terrace – making it a long walk to the patio table, but it does create 2 separate areas up there with one in view from the tower and one hidden from view (sunbathing?). I think that the kitchen feels too open to the dining/living room and that there isn’t enough counter space. While there is a lot of wasted space in the study, I think that it’s attributable to the organizational issues rather than from the study itself – it’s in a good spot with good light.

Project Name: Avonshire: Parkside – Unit 2C

Size: 1664 sq. ft.

Project Address: 42-98 Oakburn Pl Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.tridel.com/avonshire-townhomes/th/2c_suite.php

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Matilde

Comment: Developer: The Walsh Group
Architect: Core Architects
Walkscore: 86/100
There is A LOT of stair climbing here – lots of area dedicated to going up or down, and the location of the bathroom for guests is too far from the main living space. I like the roof terrace AND living level terrace – it’s nice to be able to cook outside without climbing to the roof! I couldn’t give the context point when there’s no north arrow on the plan nor is there a site plan to get a rough orientation. There is no environmental information either.

Project Name: 60 Tecumseth – The Thom

Size: 2000 sq ft

Project Address: 60 Tecumseth St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://torontocondos.com/new/60Tecumseth/

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Mid America Mom

Comment: Developer Context
Architects Alliance/ Peter Clewes — Architects

Things to like: Notice not a breakfast bar but use of a dining table (the space could NOT handle both well). Bedrooms have nice sized closets and the window light is great. There is space is in the laundry closet next to the stacked unit for the basket! I love the use of the under the stair space for a half bath as they have done here.

Issues: For the Entry you walk right into the kitchen :(

Project Name: Market Town

Size: 1012- K2

Project Address: 1 Market Street Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.marketwharf.com/floorplans/mt_k2.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 19

Braden

Comment: Walkscore – 5/100

Project Name: Dreamfields in Bradford – The Teak

Size: 1840 sq ft

Project Address: 2748-2894 8th Line Bradford West Gwillimbury, ON

Project URL: http://www.regalcresthomes.com/communities/floorplans.php?home=164

Slow Home Test Score: 6

Mid America Mom

Comment: Another from the Market Wharf Development. Developer: Context
Architects: Architects Alliance/ Peter Clewes

Entry is better than last plan but this time it is too narrow. Kitchen works however that break in the U, on the back wall, could have been addressed better. The living/dining space as shown is problematic. If they moved the dining to the front of the unit it would work much better (I marked NO on living since so cramped as shown). I debated on the Master walk in closet and ensuite. If they did the entry to the bath through the closet I would have been happier. Both bedrooms do have tons of light. Study is on the quiet second floor with light.

Project Name: Market Wharf (town)

Size: 1188- T

Project Address: 1 Market Street Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.marketwharf.com/floorplans/mt_t.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Richard J

Comment: Hi all!
First time poster, long time ‘lurker’.
This one’s LEED certified (or will be when it’s accredited).
AWFUL optional bedroom – still, even if you didn’t take it, what would go there?
Back entry not so good, but I really like the front entry.
It’s in a great neighborhood for walkin’, and faces E – getting great morning sunlight and avoiding hot sun later in the day.

Thanks!

Project Name: Vu Living – NTH N102

Size: 1573 sq ft

Project Address: 100-128 George St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.vuliving.ca/pdf2/thn102.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Alejandro

Comment: Breakfast is a silly space, dining is dark. I really don’t like the powder room where it is, and the other bathrooms are tight – I appreciate that they are all shared, but they need to have more counter space and more storage to work. For the study, I want at least a desk (or space for a desk) and there is none. The laptop computer argument won’t work on me since I still think that you need a space to work that isn’t in the middle of the busy kitchen / noisy living room / bedroom (have you ever tried sitting propped up in bed and working? It’s terrible on your neck – you need a desk to put the computer on). Overall a decent unit though

Project Name: Ventus @ Metrogate, suite 4B

Size: 1422 sq ft

Project Address: 99 Sufferance Rd Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://tridel.com/metrogate-townhomes/th/4b_suite.php

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Mid America Mom

Comment: Here is a small 9 unit townhouse project in midtown Toronto. Fantastic location near Yonge and Eglington. Units face East and West.

This townhouse has parking on the ground level followed by three levels of living and a rooftop terrace.

The entry from the garage is a stair with a closet at the TOP of the landing (but then there really is no room on the landing to take a coat off). The front entry is poor. The dining room has access to a covered deck which is a nice addition. The L shaped kitchen has a window and pantry with a pocket door. The second floor has much going on.. the master bedroom, another stair going up, and 2 storage closets. I am pleased the builder did not take part of the storage space and make the super sized bath. The double door entry and those two walk in closets are a bit much but then we have almost 2000 feet in this unit. Looks like dead space behind the one stair. Bedroom 3 has a smaller window and a walk in which it does not need. Love that laundry space- side by side units and even has a sink. The rooftop deck wraps around and offers plenty of space for a table, seating, and grill.

Project Name: Manors Of Erskine

Size: 1986- Renoir

Project Address: 95 Erskine Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.manorsoferskine.com/pdf/Renoir.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Matthew North

Hi Richard J – thanks for stepping up and posting! We look forward to your contributions to the site and Project!

Are there any other “lurkers” wanting to post today?

Claudette N.

Comment: Walkscore 50/100 – right on the cusp… considering how easy it is to get walk points, this score isn’t good enough for me.
Took the NE facing unit because I think that the light will be good, and of the townhomes, it has the best orientation (other Stamford faces NW and will get hot W light). This unit is pretty good room by room, but lacks the organization to pull it all together. The sloppy kichen/entry/breakfast area is a mess, and the loft area is actually just wasted space. I think that you wouldn’t actually put in a breakfast table and you’d just eat at the dining table – and you could either build a wall or install a piece of millwork to help delineate the entry so that you didn’t just enter right into the kitchen. I really like the double height space since it’ll bring a lot of light deep into the unit, making that den work nicely as a study.
A point of interest is that this building was the Ontario Home Builders’ Association Project of the Year (High Rise) for 2009.

Project Name: The Rowe Condominiums – Stamford

Size: 1818 sq ft

Project Address: 1600 Charles St, Whitby, ON

Project URL: http://www.therowecondos.com/pdf/RoweGHStamford.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Claudette N.

Comment: This unit, N facing only, has a lot of problems on the main floor. I think my least favorite parts are the windowless, entry-adjacent dining room and the front area’s confusion: the separation between private space and public space is basically a door. Not a very nice bedroom for privacy! The entry in that front area just dumps you into the living room too! Overall, best to take the Stamford unit over the Weymouth – fewer bedrooms (by 1), but fewer problems.

Project Name: The Rowe Condominiums – Weymouth

Size: 1437 sq ft

Project Address: 1600 Charles St, Whitby, ON

Project URL: http://www.therowecondos.com/pdf/RoweGHWeymouth.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 6

Braden

Comment: No info for context or for environmental performance. Good walkscore – 77/100.

Project Name: Brownstones of Olde Brampton

Size: 1521 sq ft

Project Address: 21-45 McMurchy Ave N Brampton, ON

Project URL: http://www.vandyk.com/residential/pdfs/communities/brownstones/Cobblestone_plan.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 7

Vickie

Comment: Walkability score of 26%
Context – it gives you the option of having the kitchen in the back or the front section of the house depending on the lot – to maximize natural sunlight.

Outdoor living is minimal, but still available, so i gave the point.

Project Name: New Yorkton

Size: 2450 sq. ft.

Project Address: sixteenth Av, Unionville

Project URL: http://www.kylemorecommunities.com/comm_coming/yorkton/pdf/townmanor5.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 14

Matilde

Comment: Developer: Freed
Architect: Core Architects
Interior Design: Munge Leung Design
Walkscore: 89/100
Likes: Entry with it’s slightly raised position (further helping to make it a space of preparation), the outdoor living space, double height living room letting light deeper into the unit, and the efficient layout of the amenities.
Dislikes: The windowless guest bedroom!! Even if that space wasn’t used as a bedroom all the time what do you do in a windowless space? The location of the column – I think you’ll bump into it trying to move up to the second floor, I was kind to the kitchen because I think it works – but I want something on that island so that I face out into the living area when I’m working on a meal.

Project Name: Six50 King West – TH02

Size: 1103 sq ft

Project Address: 650 King St W, Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.six50king.com/P_1.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Mid America Mom

Comment: Developer: Daniels
Architects: Diamond & Schmitt

You may recall I posted a condo from this development last week. It is LEED project, redevelopment of the Regent Park community of public housing downtown. They are now mixing in commerical and private home ownership in addition to geared to income housing. http://www.onecole.ca/home.html

Great looking development. These units look to face NORTH :( Finally some entry spaces that are decent. For this plan the circulation goes outside the kitchen and living and dining space. Here we have split bedrooms between floors. The one on the first floor really should have been a Den or better yet the dining space. It has no windows but interior type ones and taking out of consideration the space for the closet you get 6 and half feet! The laundry closet is in the middle of the hall to two bedrooms so no one is going to leave a basket there. The only outdoor space is attached to a bedroom which is not ideal.

Project Name: One Cole

Size: 1155- Leslieville

Project Address: 500 Dundas Street East Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.itracphp.com/nathan/daniels/onecole/page08.html

Slow Home Test Score: 14

Mid America Mom

Comment: Developer – Cityzen
Architect- Architects Alliance/ Peter Clewes

****MURRAY!!! I have your elevator.****

On the waterfront. You have direct access to the parking level of the development via stair or your own elevator :) I like where they put the closet in bedroom 2. The study type area is horrible. Kidding me that access to a bath and the laundry is here?! The living/dining space is spacious but not too much. The kitchen is my favorite U.

Too bad not green.

Project Name: Waterlink at Pier 27

Size: 1899-TH059

Project Address: 25 Queens Quay East Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.waterlink.ca/TH_059.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Dominique

Comment: The high amount of square footage made me skeptical – but it turns out to be a good design!

Project Name: The Met – unit 108

Size: 1883 Sq. Ft

Project Address: 21 Carlton Toronto

Project URL: http://truecondos.com/edilcan-lowers-prices-on-remaining-townhomes-at-the-met-by-up-to-100k

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Rita H.

Comment: No official enviro-features, but reading through the feature sheet I found out that they have low e glass and high efficiency appliances throughout. good walkscore (75) and well oriented (east). Organization is lacking due to narrowness of the unit.

Project Name: Upper Beach Manor – Long Beach

Size: 1900 sq ft

Project Address: 2234 Gerrard St E Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://upperbeachmanors.com/pdf/LongBeach.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Dominique

Comment:

Project Name: West town

Size: 1399

Project Address: ??

Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/(rsekxb45znmnbh45be1nwi45)/westown/ModelDetails.aspx?Community=19&Series=91&Model=314&ModelNo=1399

Slow Home Test Score: 6

Claudette N.

Comment: Walkscore 54/100 – just over the line. Lucky.
Site plan shows west facing rear facade – master bed, main living spaces and rear yard all exposed to the hot late afternoon sun. Too many bedrooms on the main floor given the amount of space dedicated to main living areas (kitchen living dining). Bad front entry, back entry ruins lower living space. Access to outdoor space doesn’t work.

Project Name: Centennial Gardens – Anise

Size: 1450 sq ft

Project Address: 43.701756,-79.276444

Project URL: http://www.regalcresthomes.com/communities/floorplans.php?home=125

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Claudette N.

Comment: So many things wrong with this unit. The entry is a bright spot – it combines both front and back into one space and includes the powder room… unfortunately you can’t use that bathroom – how on earth are you supposed to close the door once you go in??? Are you supposed to stand on the sink? If the door swung out it might work, or if the door swung past 90 deg. (but it certainly doesn’t show that). Living and bedrooms will work.

Project Name: Roxborough – Opal

Size: 1830 sq ft

Project Address: 22 Valley Vista Dr, Vaughan, ON

Project URL: http://www.minto.com/buy-a-home-in-toronto/Roxborough/Opal~281ht.html

Slow Home Test Score: 4

Dominique

Comment: The master bedroom does not have a closet…

Project Name: Full-screen Upper Beach Manors

Size: 1875 sq/ft

Project Address: 2234-2280 Gerrard St E

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/toronto-development-3334/floorplans-20167.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Dominique

Comment:

Project Name: Cassandra townhomes

Size: 1335 sq/ft

Project Address: 56 Cassandra Blvd. toronto

Project URL: http://www.capreit.net/Properties/Ontario/Toronto/Cassandra.aspx

Slow Home Test Score: 8

orangeopolis

Comment: Walkscore: 97/100
E facing unit. LEED Certified (pending) project.
Developed by Context and architectsAlliance (Peter Clewes).
Entry is directly into the kitchen, and I would like to see at least a desk for a 2 bedroom since you don’t always want to read in the living room with someone watching Idol or Survivor or whatever. Anyways, a good project.

Project Name: Market Wharf: Market Town – Type K1

Size: 1007 sq ft

Project Address: 1 Market St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.marketwharf.com/floorplans/mt_k1.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 18

orangeopolis

Mid America Mom, I had a chance to look over the market wharf project by Context and architectsAlliance, and reviewed this one and Type T and noticed that you also reviewed Type T. I think that you were perhaps too generous with it. I thought that the orientation was not ideal (west facing into the hot late day summer sun) and the organization lacked a kind of simple efficiency. There is wasted space sprinkled throughout the plan and yet at the same time, some spots that are too tight. This shouldn’t be. Also, opposite to what’s drawn in the plan, I think that you’d sacrifice the dining area a bit for the living room – there isn’t space for a good size table and a decent furniture layout. In all, I assessed Type T as a 14/20. If you don’t mind my asking, where did you see the issues with this one? You gave it an 18, so where did you think it lost points?

Dominique

Comment: The dining room and living room are disproportionate – the dining is too large and the living room seems tight.

Project Name: Bayview Mews

Size: 1480

Project Address: 2911 Bayview Avenue toronto

Project URL: http://www.bayviewmews.ca/fp_five.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Rita H.

Comment: Poor walkscore (26), lacking information to locate the plan and its orientation, no info for environmental performance. Like the combined entry. Funny how the kitchen is rotated to respond to the optional corner fireplace – if you said no to the option, why again is the kitchen island rotated?

Project Name: The Neighbourhoods of Churchill – Model 1640

Size: 1640 sq ft

Project Address: 3201-3451 Eglinton Ave W Mississauga, ON

Project URL: http://www.regalcresthomes.com/communities/floorplans.php?home=173

Slow Home Test Score: 9

Dominique

Comment:

Project Name: Luna

Size: 1296 sq/ft

Project Address: Spadina Ave & Bremner Blvd

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/toronto-development-2661/floorplans-18823.html

Slow Home Test Score: 11

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: Greenleaf

Size: 1600 sq ft

Project Address: 4 Baldwin Street

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/toronto-development-2787/floorplans-15359.html

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Wayne

Comment:

Project Name: Botany Hill

Size: 1850 sqft

Project Address: 430 Orton Park Rd, toronto, on

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/scarborough-development-2725/floorplans-15960.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Wayne

Comment: I gave this floor plan a no for the bathrooms because it does not have a half bath on the main floor.

Project Name: Georgian Landing

Size: 2039 sqft

Project Address: Georgian Landing 44.753682,-79.777565

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/georgian-bay-development-2065/floorplans-10129.html

Slow Home Test Score: 14

Sarah W

Comment: 69 walk score; all rooms have good light (depending on location of specific unit) except kitchen; tiny closets; master bath awkward; cheesy website!

-Sarah W.

Project Name: Shipp Place

Size: 2050

Project Address: Shipp Drive, Mississauga

Project URL: http://www.shipp-placetowns.com/st.george.jpg

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: Tiffany Homes Botany Hill

Size: 1650 sq ft

Project Address: 430 orton park road

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/scarborough-development-2725/floorplans-15954.html

Slow Home Test Score: 6

orangeopolis

Comment: Walkscore: 98/100
I think the interiors on this one are designed by Gluckstein. Here’s the brief:
“Enter a coffered foyer with decorative plaster columns defining the entrance to the elegant living and dining area. A central curved open staircase with wrought iron pickets connects all five levels and features a top floor skylight. The open-concept great room with gas fireplace, gourmet equipped kitchen and large central island leads through French doors to an exquisite patio. The second level offers a stunning master retreat with gas fireplace, three walk in closets, a private balcony and a marble ensuite with roman-style bath. Two more bedrooms each with their own ensuite on the third floor flank a library or home office. There is a lower level home theatre, as well as your own double car garage, laundry room, storage and 3-piece bath. The fifth level offers a magnificent roof top terrace with hot tub and all-season gas fireplace as well as a bar cabinet with sink.”
This is townhome living a la mode. Sounds like they’re trying to attract the Tannenbaums.
It was tough trying to look at this one as both a townhome and a large home, being considerate of the kind of excesses privy to those of the upper class. Yes, there IS an elevator. You can take it to the library on the fourth. Or perhaps you’d like to grab a tower and press 5 to go for a soak in the standard roof-level jacuzzi.
The thing that bothers my the most is the adherence to classicized symmetry that serves to create awkward circulation routes, wasted space, and useless features. Take for example the curves/angles that make the oddest walk-in closets on the third (master suite) floor. And the darkened areas around the baroque staircase – is this to suggest we’re working with solid masonry construction here?
Ok enough is enough. see for yourself.

Project Name: 100 Yorkville – Cavallli

Size: 3620 sq ft

Project Address: 67-199 Scollard St, Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.100yorkville.com/floorplans/townhomes/cavalli/lower.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Wayne

Comment: I looked at three different floor plans from the development and the smallest is the best as usual.

Project Name: Georgian Landing

Size: 1642 sqft

Project Address: Georgian Landing 44.753682,-79.777565

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/georgian-bay-development-2065/floorplans-14993.html

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Eunice

Comment: On friday there was some discussion (MollyK I think) about the standard minimum sizes of bedrooms… this unit (and the next) BOTH have 2 of 3 bedrooms sized at 7.5 feet wide! Unless you sleep in a single pushed against the wall, there’s very, very little room to move around the bed. Overall a very poorly designed unit.

Project Name: Derry Chase – The Shire

Size: 1603 sq. ft.

Project Address: Winston Churchill Blvd & Brittania Rd W Mississauga, ON

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/mississauga-development-3293/floorplans-19670.html

Slow Home Test Score: 5

Eunice

Comment:

Project Name: Derry Chase – The Mustang

Size: 1531 sq ft

Project Address: Winston Churchill Blvd & Brittania Rd W Mississauga, ON

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/mississauga-development-3293/floorplans-19666.html

Slow Home Test Score: 5

Tiff

Comment: Good, not great

Project Name: Forest Hill Manor – The Heath

Size: 1747 sq. ft

Project Address: 1400-1414 Eglinton Ave W Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.wycliffehomes.com/

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Wayne

Comment: I really disliked the master bedroom in this floor plan where main entry into the house is right next to the bedroom.

Project Name: Georgian Landing

Size: 2095 sqft

Project Address: Georgian Landing 44.753682,-79.777565

Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/georgian-bay-development-2065/floorplans-10133.html

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: Carruthers Creek Village

Size: 1700 sq ft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.conservatorygroup.com/carruthersn_pearsonflp.html

Slow Home Test Score: 6

Anonymous

Comment: 94 walk score; faces east; the entry is odd to me; I like all the balcony space, even though it wont be used in the (long) winter; not bad at all! I don’t really like the master bath, but it’s workable so I gave it the point anyway. The curved wall in the master bedroom is a little weird as well, but it doesn’t interfere with the placement of the bed, so I thought it was okay (maybe some unnecessary wasted space).

-Sarah W.
(I promise I’m putting my name & email in each time; for some reason every single post from me shows up as anonymous!)

Project Name: College Park

Size: 2200

Project Address: 761 Bay Street

Project URL: http://www.simplycondos.com/condos/toronto/floorplans/collegepark/clgtwns.gif

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: Eastgate

Size: 1263 sq ft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.conservatorygroup.com/eastgate_cornellflp.html

Slow Home Test Score: 9

Vickie

Comment: Orientation – front of house faces south.
There are sliding doors through the great room which leads to an outdoor space (not defined in the site plan or floor plan), but the site behind the row of townhomes is labeled as future development. This means their backyard will (perhaps) consist of a construction site for a while to come= no points.

Project Name: Estates of Credit Ridge

Size: 2056 sq. ft.

Project Address: 9289 Mississauga Rd

Project URL: http://www.royalpark.com/creditridge.php?home=taunton_a

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Richard J

Comment: It’s in a very very walkable part of Toronto. Unfortunately, it faces north and will not get a lot of sunlight. For me that’s a deal sealer – I just couldn’t live where I don’t get real sunlight. But beyond the orientation, the unit is ok in its layout – I think the best part is its overall proportion (shallow and wide). I don’t, however, think that the overall layout is simple enough to be really nice to use.

- Rich

Project Name: The Mansions @ Jarvis & Bloor

Size: 1027 sq ft

Project Address: 539 Jarvis St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://64.78.11.246/mj/pdf/gardentown2.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Richard J

Whoops. I’m still getting the hang of this. The organization point was supposed to be a no instead of a yes. So the Slow Home Test Score should be a 10, not a 12. Sorry guys!

Anonymous

Comment: 92 walk score; appears to face south-ish on site plan; parking included. I like this house; the hand-drawn floor plan may be misleading, but I think it has some really nice features and very little wasted space.

-Sarah W.

Project Name: Pleasant Boulevard

Size: 1290

Project Address: Yonge & St. Clair

Project URL: http://www.simplycondos.com/condos/toronto/floorplans2/pleasant/angelica.gif

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: Port Union

Size: 1342 sq ft

Project Address: port union road

Project URL: http://www.conservatorygroup.com/portunion_lakefieldflp.html

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Anonymous

Comment: 49 walk score; on a busy street facing some not-pretty houses, but it faces south – it lost on location, but I gave it the context point. Um, it has an elevator.. strange. I absolutely hate the angles in this house – they make for a ton of wasted space in the bedrooms and bathrooms. I said “no” to the laundry because I would hate to carry my clothes up and down two or three flights of stairs (although I suppose one could use the elevator!).
-Sarah W.

Project Name: Hoggs Hollow (The Hampton)

Size: 2930

Project Address: 45 York Mills Road

Project URL: http://www.simplycondos.com/condos/toronto/condos/townhomes/cricket_club/2930.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 9

Laura K

Comment: In order to view floor plan you have to click on communities then forest hill manors and then click Home designs at the bottom of screen and then click the dunvegan floor plan to view.

Project Name: Dunvegan

Size: 1448 sq ft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.wycliffehomes.com/

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Matt KB

Comment: Project 1

Project Name: 60 Tecumseth-The Thom

Size: 2000 sqft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.torontocondos.com/new/60Tecumseth/

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Mid America Mom

HI orangeopolis, just got back on.

Thank you for asking me about this plan.

*We have a difference of opinion on the orientation in general but then looking at the site in relation to the area I like West best. West in Toronto to me is fine and in defense further the builder has appropriate insulated low e double glazed glass. As for what is around this site. The east units look over Jarvis, a busy through-way street, North looks to the St. Lawerence Market and hey it is just NORTH which none of us like, and south… have fun folks you get a view and the sound of a busy elevated highway.

*The plan lost points in entry and the living space as shown. I know where you are going with the living space. Observe that the K plan we like has a space around 20 by 14 oriented long in the unit. The dining really is about 8 by 9/10 and living 14 by 10. The T plan is 19 by 14 on the width. If we flip the dining to the coffee table it would work better.

*As for space they could have done better in the kitchen.. the back wall gap and should have extended the peninsula. But as it is – it works. Master room den area. I noticed the outside wall of the baths and what they have makes a little more sense. the rooms are not suffering and there is no traffic jam in the hall (if we moved to three doors here it could as that hall looks to be only 3 wide. The Den opens at a corner instead of the middle making things a little easier (and adding a door if desired. The second bath shower is about 4 long and the walk in is same… so back to back baths would not have been possible.

*Now you commented on K that you wished they found a space for a desk. For 176 more square feet in this unit we have a better entry (though still not there) and here they found a more private space, not just a desk niche, with a window, of around 99 feet square. Not too bad.

Matt KB

Comment: Project 2

Project Name: 968 Queen West unit 2

Size: 2494 sqft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.torontocondos.com/968queen/flash.php

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Eunice

Comment: Overall proportion is good, layout stinks. Kitchen and dining are dark, too open to each other. Bedroom is wonky shape, makes bed hard to move around and pushes bed into the corner away from light. Laundry – den – mechanical adjacency is really poor. Perhaps the worst part.

Project Name: Rivertowne – Boulton

Size: 898 sq ft

Project Address: 37-99 Carroll St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.rivertowne.ca/

Slow Home Test Score: 7

Matt KB

Comment: Project 3

Project Name: bayview mews

Size: 1054 sqft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.bayviewmews.ca/download/BayviewMews_TwoBedTH.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 9

Matt KB

Comment: Project 4

Project Name: Cassandra Townhomes_unit #9

Size: 1335 sqft

Project Address: 60 Cassandra Boulevard

Project URL: http://www.capreit.net/Properties/PropertyImage.aspx?ImageURL=/assets/0/83/1376/1377/1381/708ac18d-e700-4f4f-8185-c1a88a2e1a2d.gif&ImageDescription=2 Bedroom&PropertyID=1959&PropertyTitle=Cassandra Townhomes

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Anonymous

Comment: 80 walk score; most units face south; I don’t mind this one, except for the master bed/bath (so much wasted space!).

-Sarah W.

Project Name: Townhouses at Leaside

Size: 2364

Project Address: Millwood Rd. & McRae Dr.

Project URL: http://www.simplycondos.com/condos/toronto/condos/townhomes/leaside/bedford.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 14

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: Angelica

Size: 1290 sq ft

Project Address: Pleasant Blvd. Townhomes

Project URL: http://www.simplycondos.com/condos/toronto/condos/townhomes/pleasant_townhomes.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Matt KB

Comment: Project 5

Project Name: Hodge Lane Residences-The Walnut

Size: 1829 sqft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.hydeparkhomes.com/hodgelane/pdf/walnut.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Eunice

Comment: Sometimes these tiny little units can be great if they are designed to use what space they have as efficiently as they can. This one doesn’t. It’s all a bit cramped. I don’t know how you would layout the furniture in the living room with the jut out of the island like that and still allow access to the kitchen. The other major issue is with the 2 bedrooms on the upper level. The “master” could work, but bed 2 – if I’m not mistaken – is only 7’6″ wide! That’s a tight squeeze just getting the mattress in there. The rooftop terrace is the best part of this unit. The laundry that sits on the stair landing just before you go out onto the terrace is not.

Project Name: Rivertowne – Degrassi

Size: 919 sq ft

Project Address: 37-99 Carroll St Toronto, ON

Project URL: http://www.rivertowne.ca/

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Wayne

Comment: This is the best townhouse I have seen in Toronto so far.

Project Name: Kingsgate

Size: 1425sqft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.laurierhomes.com/kingsgate/FP-balsam.shtml

Slow Home Test Score: 19

Matt KB

Comment: Project 6

Project Name: The Central

Size: 870 sqft

Project Address: 415 Jarvis

Project URL: http://www.415jarvis.com/images/user/floorc.jpg

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Alejandro

Comment: Organization is bad. The living/dining room is, as I have noticed several times in other plans, not the right proportion once you actually begin to layout furniture. The optional coffered ceiling would prescript the table location, further reducing the space for a sofa to a narrow swath against the wall. The kitchen is ruined by the bad fridge location – it makes the work triangle cross the island, making you walk around it every time you had to grab something and head to the sink. I’d hate that. I was also hard on the bathrooms. The standard layout of the family and guest bathrooms is a no-brainer, but the moment some thinking has to go in to make the master ensuite work, the quality of the design just goes out the window. On a lighter note, it’s at least well oriented.

Project Name: New Yorkton – Town Manor 3

Size: 2175 sq ft

Project Address: 4470 16th Ave Markham, ON

Project URL: http://www.kylemorecommunities.com/comm_coming/yorkton/fp_template_2.html?cid=1&model=4&plan=1

Slow Home Test Score: 6

Anonymous

Comment: I think I would live here. The interior decorating is part of the appeal, but I love the built-in furniture and the unique layout of the rooms. The outdoor spaces are great too.

-Sarah W.

Project Name: Cabbagetown Residence

Size: 2300

Project Address: Cabbagetown (I’m having a hard time finding the exact street address!)

Project URL: http://www.wallpaper.com/architecture/interactive-floorplan-cabbagetown-toronto/4052

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Vickie

Comment: walkability score of 86%
Although this seems more like a condo, it’s listed as a townhouse.
Includes green roof and other (light) environmentally friendly features http://monalisaresidences.com/features.html

Project Name: Mona Lisa Residence

Size: 608 sq. ft.

Project Address: Holmes Av and Younge St.

Project URL: http://monalisaresidences.com/townhomes/1b-b.html

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Wayne

Comment:

Project Name: Kingsgate

Size: 1240 sqft

Project Address: The kings highway Rose Cottage Lane, Toronto Ontario

Project URL: http://www.laurierhomes.com/kingsgate/pdfs/LauKing-Juniper.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Wayne

Comment: Kitchen is to big and the deck is to small.

Project Name: Kingsgate

Size: 1612 sqft

Project Address: The kings highway Rose Cottage Lane, Toronto Ontario

Project URL: http://www.laurierhomes.com/kingsgate/pdfs/LauKing-Poplar.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Vickie

Comment: Walkability of 86%

Project Name: Chestnut Hill Homes

Size: 2813 sq. ft.

Project Address: Clairtrell and Sheppard Av.

Project URL: http://www.chestnuthillhomes.ca/spring_gardens/pdfs/floorplans/clairtrell/glenrose.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Jodi J

Comment: – Walk Score of 80
- NE facing unit
- backyard with the units, decks are rather narrow
- bedroom 3 does have a few awkward nooks
- no study
- washer/dryer is in small closet in main bathroom, no workspace
-

Project Name: The Acorn – Hodge Lane Residences

Size: 1834 sq ft

Project Address: On Gerrard, between Main and Victoria Park

Project URL: http://www.hydeparkhomes.com/hodgelane/pdf/acorn.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Mid America Mom

HI Richard- thanks for contributing! Part of the property is resuse which is nice.

Mid America Mom

Hi wayne that one you love so much is out of town… I am sure that is quite rural and not walkable. Large unit and I do like the kitchen light.

Wayne

Comment: There is really no dinning room in this house and the long hallway from the front of the house to the back of the house uses up a large amount of square footage.

Project Name: Thornberry Woods

Size: 2026 sqft

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/thornberrywoods/modelDetails.aspx?Community=14&Series=78&Model=230

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Jodi J

Comment: – Walkscore of 55
- no info on lot or orientation
- kitchen is very tight, limited counter space
- bedroom 3 has an awkward nood near the window, limited furniture placement
- no study
- laundry in undeveloped basement
-

Project Name: Queens, East Gate

Size: 1800 sq ft

Project Address: Morningside Ave and Military Trail

Project URL: http://www.conservatorygroup.com/eastgate_queensflp.html

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Wayne

Comment:

Project Name: Westown

Size: 1675

Project Address: Weston Rd and Sheppard Ave W, Toronto Ontario

Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/westown/ModelDetails.aspx?Community=19&Series=91&Model=315&ModelNo=1675

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Jodi J

Comment: – Walkscore of 74
- lots of windows with southern exposure
- large roof deck

Project Name: “Ardmore”, Wycliffe Forest Hill Manors

Size: 2106 sq ft

Project Address: Eglinton and Fairleigh Cres

Project URL: http://www.wycliffehomes.com/

Slow Home Test Score: 18

Jodi J

Comment: – Walkscore of 74
- Southfacing Exposure
- large roof deck
- washer/dryer closet

Project Name: “Glenayr”, Forest Hill Manors

Size: 1630 sq ft

Project Address: Eglinton and Fairleigh Cres

Project URL: http://www.wycliffehomes.com/

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Jodi J

Comment: – Walkscore of 75
- Southwest facing rear yard
- fireplace position is awkward and with the circulation pattern, makes furniture placement a challenge
- includes backyard
- dining room within great room is small (again due to challenge with fireplace placement)
- second sink in main bath is not really useable due to placement of the toilet
- no study
- good space in laundry room

Project Name: “Lily” Basswood Manors, Basswood Park

Size: 2258 sq ft

Project Address: Churchill Ave, Basswood Drive

Project URL: http://www.hallstone.ca/pdf/basswood_lily.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Murray

Can we start giving scores to the MOST annoying/pretentious website!!!!!!!?

Jodi J

Comment: – Walkscore of 98
- NE facing exposure (Lots 6 or 7)
- entry is very small, step directly into the closet/living room
- backyard and large deck
- en suite does have a lot of wasted floor space
- no study
- nice laundry area
-

Project Name: “Orlean”, Clairtrell Mews

Size: 2359 sq ft

Project Address: Clairtrell Rd and Mews Lane

Project URL: http://www.hallstone.ca/pdf/clairtrell_orlean.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Margo

Comment: This is a really beautiful home in a great neighbourhood– renovated from a 100 year-old townhome. It looks like they kept the facade, while creating a new home. Lots of passive solar, great circulation — with the exception of the master bedroom’s deck, which is through the bathroom.

Project Name: Cabbagetown Townhouse

Size:

Project Address: Cabbagetown, Toronto

Project URL: http://www.wallpaper.com/architecture/interactive-floorplan-cabbagetown-toronto/4052

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Corey

Comment: walk score 97

Project Name: Granby Townhomes At The Met – Unit 108

Size: 1883 sqft

Project Address: College Park, Toronto

Project URL: http://truecondos.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/the-met-granby-townhomes-floor-plans.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Margo

Comment:

Project Name: Cassandra Townhomes

Size: 1335

Project Address: 60 Cassandra Blvd

Project URL: http://www.capreit.net/Properties/Ontario/Toronto/Cassandra.aspx

Slow Home Test Score: 5

Corey

Comment: walk score 77

Project Name: Brownstones on the Park at Davenport Village – Earlscourt Park

Size: 1098 sqft

Project Address: 940 Lansdowne Avenue, Toronto

Project URL: http://www.brownstonesonthepark.com/flash.php

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Margo

Comment: Nice, mostly south facing townhouse in a great neighbourhood. The only funky bit is that the master bathroom is through the master closet.

Project Name: Kimberly Court

Size:

Project Address: Main St and Lyall Ave

Project URL: http://www.kimberleycourt.com/floorplans.html

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Corey

Comment: walk score 94

Project Name: Residences of College Park

Size: 4 storeys but unknown

Project Address: 763 Bay Street, Toronto

Project URL: http://www.simplycondos.com/condos/toronto/condos/A_G/college_park.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Corey

Comment: walk score 57

Project Name: The Manors of Gordon Woods – Feildstone

Size: 2180 sqft

Project Address: Harborn Rd., Mississauga

Project URL: http://www.berkleydevelopments.com/themanors/full/images/fieldstone.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 14

Margo

Comment:

Project Name: Meridian Residences

Size:

Project Address: Younge and Finch

Project URL: http://www.ibuycondo.com/meridian/meridian-tridel-townhome.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Corey

Comment: walk score 77

Project Name: Brownstones on the Park at Davenport Village – Stanley Park

Size: 1005 sqft

Project Address: 940 Lansdowne Avenue, Toronto

Project URL: http://www.brownstonesonthepark.com/flash.php

Slow Home Test Score: 17

Margo

Comment:

Project Name: Meridian Residences

Size:

Project Address: Younge and Finch

Project URL: http://www.ibuycondo.com/meridian/meridian-tridel-townhome.html

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Corey

Comment: walk score 57

Project Name: The Manors of Gordon Woods – Stillmeadow

Size: 2240 sqft

Project Address: Harborn Rd., Mississauga

Project URL: http://www.berkleydevelopments.com/themanors/full/images/stillmeadow.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Margo

Comment: Walk Score of 25

Project Name: Meridian Residences

Size:

Project Address: Younge and Finch

Project URL: http://www.ibuycondo.com/meridian/meridian-tridel-townhome.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Mid America Mom

Comment: Hi Eunice I was looking at that development, Rivertowne as well, and see you posted only one of the plans… I will post what I liked.

Developer: Intracorp, Marion Hill Don Mount, Toronto Community Housing Corp. Kearns Mancini Architects/Montgomery Sisam Architects

Redevelopment of the Don Mount Court community of public housing east of downtown. Mixing in private home ownership in addition to subsized housing in mainly townhomes

We do not know context as no site plan found so NO. The kitchen is NO Despite a great window. They did not cave in with a galley shape but L configuration which functions better. Still could have done something with that wall. Bedroom 2 is not even 8 by 10ft and small closet :( The study is not private or quiet as washer dryer in closet there and access to deck.

Project Name: Rivertowne

Size: 1118 – Cummings

Project Address: 825 Dundas Street East Toronto ON

Project URL: http://rivertowne.ca/

Slow Home Test Score: 12

Mid America Mom

Comment: Another from rivertowne

Entry we enter to a narrow space for stair. Once again a smaller bedroom 2 and in master you walk into the master closet wall. No site plan. What is nice is the deck, the windows are not a wall of glass, the kitchen 1/2 bath closet space on the ground floor.

Project Name: Rivertowne

Size: 885- Munro

Project Address: 825 Dundas Street East Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.rivertowne.ca

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Jonathan Newman

OFF TOPIC:

However, I thought everyone might be interested. This is certainly a space efficiency marvel.

Good luck awarding the Slow Home score on this one.

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/videos/worlds-greenest-homes-hong-kong-space-saver.html

Mid America Mom

Comment: Another from Waterlink Pier 27. This is the closest townhouse to the waterfront.

What the real issue is with this place: The west view is what this unit seems to be designed for and not the unobstructed SOUTH water view.
Kitchen island does not run all the way and has a wall blocking the view to the water. Pillar in the middle of the master bedroom! The master bath is huge with this oversized tub and strange place for the toilet.

Project Name: Waterlink at Pier 27

Size: 1881-TH077

Project Address: 25 Queens Quay East Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.waterlink.ca/TH_077.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Mid America Mom

Comment:

Project Name: Bliss (in Liberty Village)

Size: 1146- TH Unit 4

Project Address: 55 East Liberty Street Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.liveinliberty.com/bliss/blissmain.html

Slow Home Test Score: 0

Mid America Mom

Comment: NOT a zero :) Issues… Lets try again.

Developer Can Alfa Group. IBI Group Architect Part of Master planned community west of downtown

Walk immediately into the living space. No outdoor living space attached to this brand new construction unit. Second bedroom pillar, one bedroom walk into closet wall, and master flow is not ideal. Look at that small hall on the second floor.. not much wasted.

Project Name: Bliss (in Liberty Village)

Size: 1146- TH Unit 4

Project Address: 55 East Liberty Street Toronto ON

Project URL: http://www.liveinliberty.com/bliss/blissmain.html

Slow Home Test Score: 13

Mid America Mom

Comment: There is a fraternal twin plan with an elevator if you need one. Which you may since there is a parking level, one of living, two of sleeping, AND a rooftop terrace.

Developer is Daniels

There is hardly anything good about this plan. It goes east and west and I like the kitchen pantry. Outdoor living, when we have good warmer weather (so much effort and so little time to use it), is plentiful with a roof terrace, master bedroom terrace, and private front garden. The Den can pass.

Cannot walk it. Organized confusion on living floor. Not green. The entry from the garage is into the cave that is called a recreation room. Front entry had much going for it but then no closet near by. The breakfast nook can only handle a bistro table. The laundry I did not mark off since the space is fine but as long as you are willing to go to the basement. The master bedroom is huge. The bath is worse at 20 feet long YES 20 and not even segmented.

YUCK.

Project Name: Kilgoure Estate

Size: 2392

Project Address: 50 Kilgour Road Toronto, Ontario

Project URL: http://www.kilgourestate.com/phasetwo/floor_plans/th2.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Laura K

Comment: A lot of wasted space. And small kitchen for such a big place. Especially when there is room for an entertainment and exercise room.

Project Name:

Size:

Project Address: 260 Russell Hill Road Unit 13

Project URL: http://ellidavis.com/listings/condos-lofts/260-russel-hill-road-13/floor_plan.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Laura K

Comment:

Project Name: The annex

Size: 1550 aq ft

Project Address: http://juliekinnear.com/toronto-condos-lofts/210-avenue-road-unit-2/floor_plan.pdf

Project URL: http://juliekinnear.com/toronto-condos-lofts/210-avenue-road-unit-2/floor_plan.pdf

Slow Home Test Score: 14

Mid America Mom

Comment: Midtown location with 3 floors and then a rooftop deck.

Great things in the plan, an office with space; a door, plenty of light. The family room has light, looks to the back – away from the street, space. The baths are reasonable. The bedrooms have a wall of closets on an outside wall not interfering with doorways, windows, or causing strange angles.

The problem area is the first floor. Almost all of it. The kitchen does not have enough counter space. It does not need an eating area since there is one right next to the stair. The stair is not open under but has this storage area when we really need the space for living since it is way too narrow in consideration of a path to the kitchen and stair from the entry. The half bath sticks out like a sore thumb and is an after thought.

Project Name: 83 Redpath

Size: Townhouse 1 (I calculated around 1750 feet)

Project Address: 83 redpath toronto

Project URL: http://www.83redpath.com/

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Dominique

Comment: The main floor of this plan has the feel of a basement. It also seems as though there is too much hall way space on that floor.

Project Name: The forest of Eden

Size: 1114 sq. ft.

Project Address: Full-screen Forest of Eden Lakeshore Rd W & Southdown Rd

Project URL: http://www.homebuyers.com/search/floor_plans.jsp?modelID=19950&searchback=/builder/builderproject.jsp&backtomodel=/builder/buildermodel.jsp&builderID=151&projectID=2904&modelIDs=null&cityIDs=null&pg=0&ext=1

Slow Home Test Score: 11

Dominique

Comment: The whole top floor is dedicated to the master bedroom, bathroom and closet – it seems excessive.

Project Name: Basswood: The Lily

Size: 2258 sq/ft

Project Address: Young St, Toronto

Project URL: http://www.hallstonehomes.com/content/basswood_fp.html

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Dominique

Comment:

Project Name: Avonshire unit GV6

Size: 1722 sq/ft

Project Address: between Highway 401 and Sheppard Avenue

Project URL: http://www.tridel.com/avonshire/gv/gv6_suite.php

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Lacey

Comment:

Project Name: Kimberley Court

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.kimberleycourt.com/floorplans.html

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Lacey

Comment:

Project Name: Leon Lai??

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://lhlai.com/theVisualStimulus/files/gimgs/11_townhouse-plan.jpg&imgrefurl=http://lhlai.com/theVisualStimulus/index.php%3F/au/porous-densification/&usg=__VIb6ka0E_Akn_e7dsj9XDD6fD_4=&h=453&w=600&sz=63&hl=en&start=79&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=W4U2ysmB9nxTsM:&tbnh=102&tbnw=135&prev=/images%3Fq%3DToronto%2Btownhouse%2Bfloor%2Bplan%26start%3D63%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dsafari%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Den%26ndsp%3D21%26tbs%3Disch:1

Slow Home Test Score: 16

Lacey

Comment:

Project Name: Cabbagetown Residence

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.wallpaper.com/images/thums/98_cabbage_jp031109_it.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.wallpaper.com/architecture/interactive-floorplan-cabbagetown-toronto/4052&usg=__C3kiJ_CuRXz3ofqwz5dsbSMJ_IM=&h=395&w=210&sz=27&hl=en&start=39&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=RUsBNvykEDip4M:&tbnh=124&tbnw=66&prev=/images%3Fq%3DToronto%2Btownhouse%2Bfloor%2Bplan%26start%3D21%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dsafari%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Den%26ndsp%3D21%26tbs%3Disch:1

Slow Home Test Score: 19

Lacey

Comment: Wasn’t sure if this was the same as Cabagetown Mews??

Project Name: Cabbagetown Residence

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.wallpaper.com/images/thums/98_cabbage_jp031109_it.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.wallpaper.com/architecture/interactive-floorplan-cabbagetown-toronto/4052&usg=__C3kiJ_CuRXz3ofqwz5dsbSMJ_IM=&h=395&w=210&sz=27&hl=en&start=39&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=RUsBNvykEDip4M:&tbnh=124&tbnw=66&prev=/images%3Fq%3DToronto%2Btownhouse%2Bfloor%2Bplan%26start%3D21%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dsafari%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Den%26ndsp%3D21%26tbs%3Disch:1

Slow Home Test Score: 19

Lacey

Comment:

Project Name: Fairway Place

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.prop2go.com/viewlisting.aspx?id=1634

Slow Home Test Score: 10

Lacey

Comment:

Project Name: The Harper

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.baker-re.com/baker/projects/thestclair/harperfp.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 15

Lacey

Comment:

Project Name: The Duggan

Size:

Project Address:

Project URL: http://www.baker-re.com/baker/projects/thestclair/dugganfp.htm

Slow Home Test Score: 8

Tony

Who on earth do some of you folks think you are? You write some pretty outrageous reviews of some really lovely homes. What qualifies you to do so, or do you just get off on trying to sound like you know what you’re talking about? Sadly, it’s obvious that you don’t.

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