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09/03/10 – Toronto – Large Single Family >2500 sqft
March 9th, 2010  |  70 Comments

Empire in Roxborough by Minto
45 series In Castlegate by HR Developments
 Whitehall in Governors Bridge by The Conservatory Group,
 Jade by Royal Pine Homes
 Boticelli in Renaissance Estates by Ballymore Homes
 Baltic in Gates of Country Side by Regal Crest homes

  • BradW

    Random thoughts…probably obvious…

    The problem with most detached low-rise designs is the lot. It is very difficult to design a house to work on a narrow lot. More than anything else this is what John’s cross section of plans illustrates today.

    In a large home, the main living space needs to have a door to the outside preferably on grade, a focal point such as a fireplace located on a side wall so as not to interfere with the backyard connection and be adjacent to the kitchen.

    Room by room evaluations need to be more strict/critical in a large home. Here you have the space so fewer compromises should be required. In particular, utility and storage spaces such as entries, laundries and closets should be more generous.

  • Terri

    I wasn’t able to do any research yesterday, so I hadn’t seen the kinds of homes the others found in Greater Toronto. But just watching your analysis, John, a couple of things occurred to me. It seems that in most of these examples where we see a “built-in” formality through separating the living room from the family room by some distance or walls, and the similarly formal dining room, that the idea is to create a space where the homeowners can entertain either friends or family in a spacious and possibly grand room. These larger homes are obviously more pricey,so their owners must be of a social strata where entertaining is central to their lives (possibly they host employees or clients, or because they have the most means, the whole family for celebrations). Such situations demand a setting where the guest’s comfort is paramount and an illusion of ease is on display. A separation from the everyday life of the home’s occupants is important to this ambience, so the family/kitchen are more hidden. A less visible kitchen reminds me of the Victorian age when the kitchen was used by servants and was not visible. That’s the kind of formality we see here. These kitchens are not the kind where the homeowner cooks and entertains at the same time. We don’t see long eating bars where the guest can perch on a stool while the food is prepared.
    These homes are built for the more affluent among us, and therefore they will exhibit such wealth. It usually takes hard work to attain wealth, so the home must reward its occupants and offer the comforts sought at the end of the day or week.

  • Terri

    Further on the large house=affluence theme (above), I think the concept of individual bathrooms also applied. I know it’s generally considered “fast” to offer a bathroom for each bedroom, and in a moderately sized house this is obvious, but in these larger homes I believe it’s probably inexcusable not to offer a bathroom for each bedroom. Too often we see the space wasted in the master suite with gigantic walk-in closets (who really has to dance in their closets anyway?) or ridiculous corner soaker tubs, often taking up a whole corner of the room next to the only window. If the master suite were less opulent and sized accordingly, space would be free for other bathrooms to have a standard layout, possibly substituting a shower for a tub/shower combo. People often say that this is a waste of resources, but a standard bathroom does not have to cost all that much and if it’s not using space that could be used by another room, then it doesn’t seem wasteful to me (but then I have a bias to private bathrooms).

  • Braden

    Comment: Walkscore: 23/100
    Site plan was there, but clearly there is no right way this house was designed to face, since all orientations are available. Most of the problems in this house come from poor organization – main spaces dislocated from one another, sideyarding, jogged walls, trying to tightly pack things in for no reason at all (why not make the family room a bit smaller to actually have room in the back entry?). Points came from bedrooms, kitchen (overlooking the corner stove) and living.

    Project Name: MacLeod’s Landing – The Churchill

    Size: 3000 sq ft

    Project Address: 302-398 Jefferson Sideroad Richmond Hill, ON

    Project URL: http://aspen.thebrandfactory.com/media/floorplans/mac_churchill.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Braden

    Comment: This one’s a bit better than the last one, I appreciate the fact that the den isn’t facing into the sideyard and instead gets a nice view of the garden, and that all the bedrooms either face the front or back yards too. The kitchen leaves a lot to be desired, especially with that dumb wall that keeps the person in the kitchen cut off from whatever is going on in the family room.

    Project Name: MacLeod’s Landing – The Zebrina

    Size: 2855 sq ft

    Project Address: 302-398 Jefferson Sideroad Richmond Hill, ON

    Project URL: http://aspen.thebrandfactory.com/media/floorplans/mac_zebrina.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Joti Singh

    Comment: Heh heh – this one would have got a 2 if it wasn’t for the heat recovery ventilator unit and the solar panels… 2 points for the green alibi.

    Project Name: Enchanted Forest – Sapphire 400

    Size: 2920 sq ft

    Project Address: Jefferson Forest Dr Richmond Hill, ON

    Project URL: http://www.royalpinehomes.com/ench-41sapphire400.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 4

  • Rita H.

    Comment: walkscore of 37%
    Good kitchen. What’s a semi-ensuite? Bedrooms 2 and 4 are not doing too well. Computer area is a leftover space and the library will be dark facing the side yard like that.

    Project Name: Thornberry Woods, Model 3205

    Size: 3205 sq. ft.

    Project Address: Carrier Crescent Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/thornberrywoods/modelDetails.aspx?Community=14&Series=77&Model=221

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Joti Singh

    Comment: I was nice to the entry, since I like the fact that it’s combined with the back, in spite of the mile-long walk to the closet. The feature sheet shows some enviro-features. Lots of wasted space in the master bedroom, and 2 of the bedrooms get the side yard treatment. Don’t like the bathrooms either. Points for the kitchen and laundry.

    Project Name: Caslemore Crossing – The Blue Hickory

    Size: 2800 sq ft

    Project Address: 9343-9869 The Gore Rd Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.royalpinehomes.com/castlecross_38_8.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 5

  • Rita H.

    Comment: walkscore 37% (same as last one)
    yes for Entry, Outdoor Living, Kitchen (although I’m not totally keen on the walk from the sink to the fridge), Bedrooms, Laundry and Parking.

    Project Name: Thornberry Woods, Model 2815

    Size: 2815 sq ft

    Project Address: Carrier Crescent Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/thornberrywoods/ModelDetails.aspx?Community=14&Series=96&Model=358

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • MollyK

    My first observation sounds like a broken record…lot size/configuration and the house’s placement on it are KEY determinates of a livable floorplan. Windows in the first floor living areas that face a side yard are NOT an issue if the lot and house placement are done properly. Side yards can be picturesque and allow natural light into a home IF the home is not on a narrow lot. With that said, there are numerous observations one can make about living areas. For example, I do not mind multiple living spaces…it is their placement that determines their functionality. A living room in some far off corner of the house will not be used nearly as much as a living/dining combination such as in the Whitehall in Governor’s Bridge floorplan. That particular design lends itself well to dining then moving to a more comfortable area to have after-dinner drinks and good conversation.
    I think kitchens provide the “connection” between formal dining and informal living. So their placement in relation to the informal family room and dining room is crucial. However, I don’t think the door to the outside should be in the breakfast area. This door should be between the kitchen and family room which allows good circulation from both areas.
    When you factor in the “Big Home” condition, it seems logical to add addition living spaces such as a library/den. I would assume a bigger home is necessary because you have a bigger family…you need more elbow room. Otherwise, in order to fill up the extra space in a big house you simply supersize the existing rooms. And we know supersizing just to fill up space is neither efficient nor livable.
    I have one criticism of big houses with basements. It seems that many floorplans squeeze extra rooms on the first floor which is already cramped by the presence of a garage. Why not have more finished basements with a minimum of one living area…another family room perhaps? Wouldn’t this reduce the urge to put everything on the first floor?

  • Terri

    Comment: These are 50′ lots, allowing a little more side yard space. The lots I’m viewing are south-facing rears towards park land (ravine with trees). Walkscore is 60, with most amenities, including access to GTO transit options, less than 1 km.
    I went with the third option for main floor with a study off Family Room. Laundry is smaller with more conflict from garage door. Master bedroom is supersized (totally wild closet space), but I didn’t mark down for the bathrooms as they’re reasonable in size.

    Project Name: The Reserve in Richmond Hill, the Beachtree

    Size: 3,128SF

    Project Address: lots 23-33, Pheasant Dr. Richmond Hill

    Project URL: http://www.heathwoodrichmondhill.com/projects/theReserve/floorplans/beechtree.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 18

  • Terri

    Comment: Another plan from The Reserve in Richmond Hill. Again, I’m planning on one of lots 23-33 with good southern exposure at rear. Forgot to say that Heathwood is trying extra-hard to be energy efficient with more insulation, low-E glass, energy wise plumbing and automatic sensors to conserve electricity, better HVAC systems and wiring for solar panels on the roof, so I’ve given them points for that.
    This plan has a super-super-sized master bedroom with an additional bayed sitting area. I like the bay idea, but there’s a lot of wasted space here. The Organization lost out to too many hallways. But I do like the shared bathrooms for the secondary bathrooms. No study designated so a point there. The laundry is the most spacious I’ve seen in a while.

    Project Name: The Reserve, Oakdale model

    Size: 3.628SF

    Project Address: lots 23-33, Pheasant Dr. Richmond Hill

    Project URL: http://www.heathwoodrichmondhill.com/projects/theReserve/floorplans/oakdale.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 17

  • Terri

    MollyK,
    Just a response to your observation that a door off the breakfast room doesn’t seem adequate. In the case of an area like Toronto where there’s (usually) snow outside for about 4 months, it’s more energy efficient to use a single door. It could be accessed directly, I agree, and not shunted to the edge of an eating area.
    As for basements, sometimes they are so deep below grade that they can be dark and oppressive places where no one wants to be, especially in the daytime. On the other hand, if it’s a walkout basement, it’s the ideal place often for a family room so that access to the yard is direct. I had a home like this where the kids came and went while I hung out down there, able to watch but still have a pleasant space in which to work.

  • Alejandro

    Comment: Note – you have to click on the 3rd floor plan to get the right plan (you’ll notice the stair is different). Kudos on the single car garage on this one. Two powder rooms??? Apparently a tear in the space-time continuum has opened up next to the stair, causing a curve in gravity pulling the stair into its shape. Great location (77/100 walkscore) but bad design.

    Project Name: Upper Beach Estates – Evergreen

    Size: 2776 sq ft

    Project Address: Crossovers St Toronto, ON

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

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • BradW

    Terri,

    The main floor of the Oakdale is really well done. The second floor is another story. The master suite and the shared bathroom are awkward. I could live without the fitness room. Too bad. BTW, Hugh Heron, president of Heathwood Homes and the Heron Group is well respected builder in the GTA. His Home At Last marketing campaign is very effective and, more importantly, he is a tireless promoter of the Mikey network which provides education about heart health and places public access defibrillators in high risk areas to help a cardiac arrest victim survive.

    I agree with your comment about basements. It is possible especially if the home is a split level (not the popular today) to create a walk out from a conventional basement. Conversely, some older homes in Toronto have the front yard excavated to create front access and add light into a basement apartment or office.

  • Braden

    Comment:

    Project Name: Roxborough – Palais (Acorn Homes)

    Size: 3512 sq ft

    Project Address: Bathurst St & Major MacKenzie Dr W Richmond Hill, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/vaughan-development-2746/floorplans-18113.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 5

  • BradW

    Another note on basements – it is really nice when secondary access is provided to the basement directly from the utility area of the home. Rare but nice especially for hobbies.

  • Matilde

    Comment: Points went to study, bedrooms and outdoor living. The walkscore was 18/100.

    Project Name: Milton Trails – Salisbury

    Size: 3042 sq ft

    Project Address: 3075-3399 Derry Rd W Milton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.fieldgatehomes.com/index.cgi?d=homeDetail&m=802596271&c=712639499

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Braden

    Comment:

    Project Name: The Mills – The Harvard

    Size: 3813 sq ft

    Project Address: Bazalgette Dr Toronto, ON

    Project URL: http://www.caliberhomes.ca/mills/harvard.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 9

  • Mid America Mom

    Comment: Back out to the rural areas.

    This plan has an issue with huge hallways. What I did not like is the front entry, the bedrooms, and kitchen. The master is huge and bed 2 closet stick out. Bed 3 has an odd long hall in it with a walk in that looks poor. The kitchen has too much space. Counter runs forever on the back wall. The island is in the middle of a leg of the triangle. I would have moved the refrigerator closer to the stove. Added some kind of desk over there. The living and dining are OK and so with the family room.

    Mid America Mom

    Project Name: Kingsgate- Spruce

    Size: 3164

    Project Address: Schomberg ON

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

    Slow Home Test Score: 12

  • Matilde

    Comment: Walkscore was 12/100. This house is not good. Many rooms pushed to the sides, leaving a big hallway separating everything. Have a look for yourself and see. Maybe I’m a bit mean, but I think in this many square feet you could do a lot better.

    Project Name: The Ravines of Dufferin – The Cape May

    Size: 3175 sq ft

    Project Address: Blue Iris Trail Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/maple-development-2371/floorplans-14070.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 1

  • Matilde

    Comment: This one is pretty much the same.

    Project Name: The Ravines of Dufferin – The Exeter

    Size: 3450 sq ft

    Project Address: Blue Iris Trail Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/maple-development-2371/floorplans-18248.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Claudette N.

    Comment: Hello all! I am around today to post a few plans. This one is my first, hopefully I can do better…

    Project Name: Upper Thornhill Estates: The Trillium 3

    Size: 3250 sq. ft.

    Project Address: 1-99 Little Natalie Ct Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/thornhill-development-2370/floorplans-15122.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • MollyK

    Terri,
    I’m not advocating multiple doors in a kitchen/family room layout. My beef is with the location in the breakfast area. The floorplans I’ve been seeing in the single family homes overwhelmingly have the door to the outside (patio door) in the breakfast area…most are not big enough to allow circulation around the table.
    I hear what you’re saying about basements. However, surely with proper lighting, good wall color, and smart interior decorating a basement couldn’t provide a relaxing and usable family space.

  • Claudette N.

    Comment: Super sized kitchen, dining areas, master bathroom, master bedroom, family room. Having this amount of square footage just devoted to single uses makes everything seem more expensive, but I think it’s just a waste of space.

    Project Name: The Valleys of Thornhill: The Versaillles

    Size: 3734 sq ft

    Project Address: 9905-9999 Dufferin St Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/vaughan-development-3094/floorplans-17462.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Claudette N.

    Comment: This one got location point and environmental point, same as the other one I did. The difference is that this one got outdoor living and kitchen as well as study and laundry. Score is shifted by the 5 points coming from just putting in some green features and having an ok location – it was 48/100 on the walkscore.

    Project Name: The Valleys of Thornhill: The Orleans

    Size: 3307 sq ft

    Project Address: 9905-9999 Dufferin St Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/search/floorplanpopup.jsp?modelID=17460&floorID=1

    Slow Home Test Score: 9

  • Richard J

    Comment: Perhaps this is the worst family bathroom I have ever seen! Giant sized family and living rooms, repulsed by one another, flung into opposite corners of the house. Got my points for bedrooms, study (a gimme point since there isn’t one), and parking.

    Project Name: Vellore Village – Brunello

    Size: 2860 sq ft

    Project Address: Rutherford Rd & Via Campanile Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/woodbridge-development-999/floorplans-8823.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Claudette N.

    Comment: And another one with “thorn” in its name!
    Look at that staircase in this one!! The hallway on the second level is pretty bad too! Lots of other things I don’t like: master bathroom, computer loft is a waste of space, shape of the breakfast, living room is bad, master bedroom as has lots of wasted space.

    Project Name: Thornhill Valley: The Jordan

    Size: 2821 sq. ft.

    Project Address: Dufferin St and Rutherford Rd Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/thornhill-development-2851/floorplans-16239.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 2

  • Lucas

    Comment:

    Project Name: Westown – 32 Series Model 2980

    Size: 2980 sqft

    Project Address: 2277 Sheppard Ave. West Toronto, ON

    Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/westown/images/32series/2980.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 8

  • Rita H.

    Comment: Room by room only missed out on dining room (due to sideyarding) and bathrooms (look at that grotesque master bathroom, and the silly shared bath that takes good light away from bedroom #4). walkscore is a 12.

    Project Name: Vaughan Valley Estates – Lazio

    Size: 3014 sq ft

    Project Address: 10462-10598 Weston Rd Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.fieldgatehomes.com/index.cgi?d=homeDetail&m=15491690&c=77140806

    Slow Home Test Score: 8

  • Rita H.

    Comment: Some mistakes in this one keep it from working – for example, the stair location is awful. Angles and wasted space too. I wouldn’t like working in that kitchen with the appliances where they are.

    Project Name: Vaughan Valley Estates – Umbria

    Size: 3350 sq ft

    Project Address: 10462-10598 Weston Rd Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.fieldgatehomes.com/index.cgi?d=homeDetail&m=862848440&c=77140806

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Alejandro

    Comment: Walkscore of 47/100 gets a generous yes. This plan is the attack of the 45!!! Geometry causes all kinds of problems. Energy Star Home. Back entry is wayyy too tight. Living room is ok. Half wall separating family room from breakfast nook cuts door to outside off from being used easily and the table already would block the door anyways. Kitchen is very small and lacks counter space. Dining room is very separate and faces into the side yard. SO much wasted space, weird jogs in the bedrooms, though I appreciate that none are sideyarded. UGGGHHH to that master bathroom, family bath is cruddy. Study is ok, laundry is ok. Parking is too narrow to move around the cars.

    Project Name: Country Lane – The Buckingham

    Size: 2761 sq ft

    Project Address: 48-98 Campbell Dr Uxbridge, ON

    Project URL: http://www.heathwood.com/projects/countrylane/floorplans/buckingham.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 8

  • Lucas

    Comment:

    Project Name: Castlegate – 38 Series 3190

    Size: 3190 sqft

    Project Address: 9871-9899 The Gore Rd Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/castlegate/images/38series/3190.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Lucas

    Comment:

    Project Name: Castlegate – 45 Series 3327

    Size: 3327 sqft

    Project Address: 9871-9899 The Gore Rd Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.hr-newhomes.com/castlegate/images/45series/3327.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Manolo

    Comment: Solarium might be nice, dining room is in a really bad spot, master bathroom is very awkward, don’t like the overall organization. Energy Star home, walking score 38.

    Project Name: Traditions – The Cloverdale

    Size: 2725 sq ft

    Project Address: 1500 Main St W Milton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.heathwoodtraditions.com/floorplans/cloverdale.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 8

  • Manolo

    Comment: I’m going there – this is a baroque home. Look at how those spaces are made to fit into those pretty little shapes in plan. Energy Star House. As per site plan, the house faces south facing onto a forested slope. On the second floor, the master suite is what mattered most to this one – selling the idea of luxury to the buyer, and chunking in the rest of the bedrooms to fill it up. Saved from a 2 by the orientation and the ‘green’ points.

    Project Name: Traditions – The Regency

    Size: 3415 sq ft

    Project Address: 1500 Main St W Milton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.heathwoodtraditions.com/floorplans/regency.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Eunice

    Comment: WOW. wasn’t expecting this one. I think that the square footage is off. Walkscore is 62, in a mixed density community. Energy Star home. The outdoor living space gets great south light. The only issues I have are with the kitchen – which is small and separated too much I think from the rest of the spaces – and the bedrooms – which are kind of small and very separated with one in the basement and one on the loft while the master suite is given all the glory (and which it takes and takes leaving a lot of leftovers on the plate). Otherwise, I think it’s pretty good. Good overall proportions. The formal dining room could be more multi-functional, and not so big, but given the kind of house this is, it is probably a sought-after space.

    Project Name: The Bungalows @ Kilgour Estate, The Hadsleigh

    Size: 4652 sq.ft.

    Project Address: 50 Burkebrook Pl Toronto, ON

    Project URL: http://www.kilgourestate.com/bungalows/floorplan_hadsleigh.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 18

  • Joti Singh

    Comment: room by room got 2/10, yes to context and yes to environmental performance. There’s a ton of wasted space in that master bedroom. The kitchen also has my hated corner sink, and to take up the space lost in the corner it has a “plant ledge”. OVerall, this plan is marred by bad angles, a curving staircase, stupid decorative pathmarking columns, and a really awful second level to top it all off.

    Project Name: The Reserve at The Woodlands – The Elmwood

    Size: 3252 sq ft

    Project Address: 101-109 Humberland Dr Richmond Hill, ON

    Project URL: http://www.heathwoodrichmondhill.com/projects/theReserve/floorplans/elmwood.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Eunice

    Comment: Semi-circular stair just to aggravate you (or strike you with awe), certain spaces get the royal ceiling treatment that makes them look like a bank (or a church), supersizing is a recurring problem throughout. The master suite, for example, is maximized leaving the rest to ‘just deal with it’. Or how about the kitchen and its 3′ tall dance floor – I mean island. And, not to flog a dead horse here, but that dining room would easily fit all of the knights AND their table.

    Project Name: Country Estates – The Promenade

    Size: 3000 sq ft

    Project Address: 10937 Regional Rd-27 Vaughan, ON

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

    Slow Home Test Score: 2

  • Rita H.

    Comment: Matthew, this one is for you because I know how much you love a spiral staircase! I love how the plans have the sales pitch written right on them. For example, the “spa inspired” master ensuite should also include its square footage, since it’s bigger than the whole kitchen. Walkscore 37/100. Energy Star features.

    Project Name: Forestbrook – The Sprucehill

    Size: 3474 sq ft

    Project Address: Rothbury Rd Richmond Hill, ON

    Project URL: http://www.heathwoodrichmondhill.com/projects/forestBrook/floorplans/sprucehill.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 5

  • Terri

    BradW,
    I agree with the upper floor on Oakdale in the Reserve. I meant to point out that I was evaluating on the version that does not have that fitness space. It had a “teen lounge,” which I thought was okay.

    MollyK,
    I agree with you regarding the tight space for a deck door next to the kitchen table. One would think that a central doorway would be much preferred. And most people do eventually fix up their basement spaces to make them pleasant, but for the new home market it seems that the house has to have X many elements, all ready to be used by the buyer today, so they cram it all in. Not a great result usually, for sure. It’s amazing to me that there are so many that conform to this plan. You’d think that they could offer just one plan that’s different, even if not many choose it because they think they need the X required elements found in the rest.

  • Lucas

    Comment: walkscore 23/100. Energy Star. Site plan shows all orientations, which I take to mean NO orientation (the house can face any which way).

    Project Name: Bayview Club – The Orion B

    Size: 3357 sq ft

    Project Address: Halldorson Ave and Mavrinac Blvd Aurora, ON

    Project URL: http://aspen.thebrandfactory.com/media/floorplans/orion.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 4

  • Joti Singh

    Comment: Features the “Eco-Eclipse Program” with Energy Star. A huge and wasteful house, giving primacy to the master suite, formalized duplicate spaces, retrogressive luxury ‘splendor’.

    Project Name: The Residences at King’s College – Caldwell House

    Size: 3795 sq ft

    Project Address: 3470 Mississauga Rd Mississauga, ON

    Project URL: http://www.townwoodhomes.com/kings_college/homes.cfm

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Eunice

    Comment: Living, library and dining rooms all cut off from eachother and from ‘informal’ conjoined space at the rear (family, nook, kitchen). To convey a sense of refinement, formal spaces get the bevelled look. A bad circular stair completes the style. One thing that really bugs me in the kitchen is the location of the pantry and fridge – it would have been easy to just put them closer so that you don’t have to walk around the island all the time. Not a cook’s kitchen for that reason alone I’d say. On the second level those bathrooms make you give your head a shake. Bedrooms seem ok, as does the access to the outdoor space. I also gave a point to the living spaces, though separated, they both have good access to light and a view. The site plan shows these homes facing only north or south, so you can decide which rooms you want to get the shade. I’d prefer a south facing rear yard so that the garage didn’t cut off that nice south light.

    Project Name: Residences at Victoria Square – The Austin

    Size: 2967 sq ft

    Project Address: 2862-2998 Elgin Mills Rd E Markham, ON

    Project URL: http://www.countrywidehomes.ca/index.cfm?ci_id=7774&la_id=1

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Lucas

    Comment: Decent room by room, poor walkscore (23) and a meaningless site plan, poor overall organization and no environmental component.

    Project Name: Bayview Meadows – Everett

    Size: 3265 sq ft

    Project Address: Halldorson Ave and Mavrinac Blvd Aurora, ON

    Project URL: http://www.countrywidehomes.ca/index.cfm?ci_id=8307&la_id=1

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Mid America Mom

    Comment: You may want to check out this site of a builder in both the US and Canada as they have a section called resource center and in there, real estate 101. Other areas you can find out information on financing, loan insurance…

    As for this unit is it far out of the city near another large city but people do commute to Toronto from there. I choose the 5 bedroom with 3.5 bath. Keeping in mind this is a large home and they have the seemingly prerequisite living,dining, kitchen with eat in, a massive stair, and family rooms on the first floor … it measures up.

    Yes that is a side entry with a balcony but I like that it is different. There is only a 2 car garage. All rooms on the first floor face the front or back yard. The family room we can float furniture in there. They found a way to have all 5 bedrooms facing, or partially facing, the front and back yards. The bedroom sizes and closets are good. Each bedroom shares a bath with another and surprise they are NOT supersized. The master needs help with the tub and why do we need split walk in closets?

    My only real issues with the plan is the kitchen area. Again we have a eating area that is too small for all the circulation needs. The island cuts into a leg of the work triangle. The refrigerator is in never never land.

    Mid America Mom

    Project Name: Ancaster Arbor- Freesia

    Size: 3598

    Project Address: 500 Kitty Murry Lane Ancaster, ON

    Project URL: http://www.mattamyhomes.com/GTA/Communities/Ancaster/D66/Freesia/Freesia.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 10

  • Anonymous

    Comment:

    Project Name: Inhabit Claremont

    Size: 2000

    Project Address: 91 Claremont Street Toronto

    Project URL: http://inhabitclaremont.com/

    Slow Home Test Score: 17

  • Mid America Mom

    Comment: Wide lot. This site you can place furniture.

    Project Name: Vintage- Arbour

    Size: 3240

    Project Address: Uxbridge ON

    Project URL: http://fandorhomes.com/iplans/index.html?designid=52A#

    Slow Home Test Score: 11

  • Mid America Mom

    Comment:

    Project Name: Vintage – Plantation

    Size: 3655

    Project Address: Uxbridge ON

    Project URL: http://fandorhomes.com/iplans/index.html?designid=54B#

    Slow Home Test Score: 10

  • Paulina

    Comment:

    Project Name: MacKenzie Ridge – Ashton Gables

    Size: 3650 sq ft

    Project Address: 10958 Dufferin St Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.mackenzieridge.com/assets/pages/models/pdf/ashton_gables.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 4

  • BradW

    OK, the previous anonymous posting of the Inhabit Claremont project is offside. While it is a very nice infill project, there is no floor plan or site plan that I could find. I hope it wasn’t Paul J who posted this as he was given his due on here last week.

  • Paulina

    Comment:

    Project Name: Caledon Park Estates – The Thompson

    Size: 2655 sq ft

    Project Address: Mt Hope Rd & Rowley Dr Caledon, ON

    Project URL: http://www.alliancehomesinc.com/pdf/rh2655c.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 11

  • Paulina

    Comment:

    Project Name: Caledon Park Estates – The Massey

    Size: 3029 sq ft

    Project Address: Mt Hope Rd & Rowley Dr Caledon, ON

    Project URL: http://www.alliancehomesinc.com/pdf/rh2965c.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Eunice

    Comment: Now THAT’S an ostentatious staircase.

    Project Name: Mesa – The Kokopelli

    Size: 2834 sq ft

    Project Address: 4200 Garden St Whitby, ON

    Project URL: http://www.denoblehomes.com/images/communities/mesa/floorplans/kokopelli.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Paulina

    Comment:

    Project Name: Laureate Walk – Elite Elevation A

    Size: 3092 sq ft

    Project Address: 10250 Dufferin St Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.emeryhomes.net/fl_elite.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Paulina

    Comment:

    Project Name: Portnall Rise – Luddington Hall

    Size: 3235 sq ft

    Project Address: 2050 10th Sideroad Bradford West Gwillimbury, ON

    Project URL: http://www.emeryhomes.net/floorplans/fl_luddington.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Paulina

    Comment: Okay guys, it’s been a while since I’ve had a chance to contribute (busy busy busy!). Anyways, I though I’d search for a bunch and then add them at once – sorry I couldn’t write more details and contribute better to the conversation! Hopefully I’ll have more time next week in Dallas.
    Thanks!

    Project Name: Vintage – Huntingwood

    Size: 2825 sq ft

    Project Address: 2-44 Rosena Ln Uxbridge, ON

    Project URL: http://www.fandorhomes.com/floorplans/UX%20Huntingwood%2050ft.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 10

  • Claudette N.

    Comment: Hahaha I found another “Thorn” one!

    Project Name: Thornhill Estates – The Heathdale

    Size: 3360 sq ft

    Project Address: 41-99 Dimarino Dr Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.goldparkhomes.com/thornhill/floorplans/heathdale.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Eunice

    Comment:

    Project Name: Cornell Rouge – Briarwood

    Size: 2903 sq ft

    Project Address: Cornell Rouge Blvd Markham, ON

    Project URL: http://www.madisonhomes.ca/cornell/floorplans/36_2517.htm

    Slow Home Test Score: 2

  • Laura K

    Comment:

    Project Name: The Kettleby

    Size: 2700 sq ft

    Project Address:

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/toronto-development-2493/floorplans-13215.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Braden

    Comment: Yes: Kitchen, dining, laundry, parking, organization, and env. perf.

    Project Name: Legacy – The Miro

    Size: 3370 sq ft

    Project Address: Asner Ave Vaughan, ON

    Project URL: http://www.madisonhomes.ca/legacy/floorplans/miro.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 8

  • Braden

    Comment: Yes: living, bathrooms, study

    Project Name: Woodlands @ Fletcher’s Creek – The Pebblestone

    Size: 2937 sq ft

    Project Address: 1-55 Percy Gate Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://builder.homebuyers.com/our_communities/woodlands_fletchers_creek/pebblestone/fp_main.htm

    Slow Home Test Score: 3

  • Braden

    Comment: Yes: living, kitchen, beds, baths, study, laundry, parking
    walkscore: 17

    Project Name: Adena Ridge – Triple Crown

    Size: 3120 sq ft

    Project Address: Borland Crescent Caledon, ON

    Project URL: http://www.oxfordhomescanada.com/floorplans/3120fp.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 7

  • Eunice

    Comment: Location points, Environmental points, and a point for living. Of the 5 bedrooms, 3 face the sideyard!

    Project Name: Centre Point West – The Regency

    Size: 3010 sq ft

    Project Address: 500 Eglinton Ave W Mississauga, ON

    Project URL: http://www.paradisehomescorp.com/pages/projects/CentrePointWest/floorplans/Regency.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 6

  • Braden

    Comment:

    Project Name: Riverstone – Spendor A

    Size: 3754 sq ft

    Project Address: 9011-9299 McVean Dr Brampton, ON

    Project URL: http://www.rosehavenhomes.com/floorplans.asp?pid=14&mid=226

    Slow Home Test Score: 5

  • Laura K

    Comment:

    Project Name: Doanar Hill

    Size: 3257 sq ft

    Project Address:

    Project URL: http://www.minto.com/buy-a-home-in-toronto/Spring-Farm/Doanar-Hill~217ht.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 5

  • Laura K

    Comment:

    Project Name: Dover

    Size: 3200 sq ft

    Project Address:

    Project URL: http://www.minto.com/buy-a-home-in-toronto/Roxborough/Dover~277ht.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 11

  • Laura K

    Comment:

    Project Name: Edgmere Water

    Size:

    Project Address: Edgmere, ont

    Project URL: http://www.edgemere.ca/Floorplans_Current/Edgemere_FP_1_7.pdf

    Slow Home Test Score: 15

  • Laura K

    Comment:

    Project Name: The Elora

    Size: 2890 sq ft

    Project Address: Euclid Ave

    Project URL: http://www.newinhomes.com/ontario/toronto-development-2493/floorplans-13216.html

    Slow Home Test Score: 9

  • Mid America Mom

    Today you asked about Living spaces.

    First thought – Death to the living room! Say YES to the great room ( WITH conditions).

    Our lives seem to be more informal now and the parties tend to spill into your kitchen or family room from your dining and living rooms. It is like your guests have a homing beacon to these spaces. This is the true heart of the home.

    Should a large home have a formal living space? No. Look at vacation homes. They tend to not have them. What do those homes have? Comfort, views, design for informal family living.

    What do I think is a good recipe for a living space in a larger home? A great room and yes I mean great! This is the place we all want to be. Watch TV, play with games or toys, family Wii night, eat on the couch and relax. Good elements to the design. This room should be able to handle at least two furniture groupings or activities. Like TV viewing in one spot and reading or surfing the net on the laptop in another. My goal is a space that is at least 250 sq feet of which the length or width is no smaller than 13 feet. It needs natural light. I agree that we should try to minimize the view to the assumed close by next door neighbor and place the room on the back or front of the floorplan. If it has a view you want to exploit there should be plenty of windows. Keep in mind this room is destination not a stop to one. Limit circulation through it. My favorite way to do that is by NOT allowing access to another space in the home from the majority of at least three of the walls that define the space. No more walking through the back or middle of the great room to enter an office, get to a staircase, work in the laundry room, or even access the garage or service entry. To expand your living to the outdoors think about placing a patio or other outdoor space off of it. Make sure there is another accessible entry nearby . This would be from another area of the home such as the eating area of the next door kitchen. Think of adding interest with a fireplace, defined space for a TV, built ins.

    For those who feel the need for a formal living room in addition to a family space , go ahead assuming you have enough space. The room should be a decent size. Resist making it narrow as this limits furniture placement. Should be in close proximity to the formal entry of the home to maintain that formal sphere. As we assume not much time will be spent in the space it is not necessary for natural light to come from windows at the front or back of the plan. The ability to close this space off is important. This will be that flex room. Maybe a place free of the noise of the family for an office, work on a hobby and keep that clutter away from the world, a play room. If there is bath nearby it could serve as a guest room.

    So say yes to the great room and maybe usher in the flex room.

    Mid America Mom

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