Page 70 - Canadian House & Home - xxx 2010

MODERN OASIS
FROM SMALL ROOMS TO
AIRY ROOFTOP RETREAT.
Self-professed “reno addicts,” the
owners of this Toronto home knew
another reconfiguration was on
the horizon when they learned they
were expecting a second child. “As
our family grew, my husband and
I wanted a serene and calm adult
space,” says the homeowner. Enter
John Tong of 3rd Uncle Design.
Tong interpreted their vision by
opening up the 500-square-foot
third-floor space (originally two
small rooms) to create a tandem
principal bedroom, bathroom and
office (not shown). Tong brought in
as much light as possible by blasting
out an exterior wall, and replacing
inefficient metal patio doors with
wide glass sliders. He also reworked
the patio for privacy. “We didn’t
hold back,” says the owner, who
admits that the space is now a hot
spot for the whole family. “We
wake up every morning and look
out through the shower to the
sky. It’s magical.”

CREATE A CONNECTION TO THE OUTDOORS
European oak was chosen for the simple open
vanity, custom-designed by Sara Parisotto and
Hamid Samad of Commute Home. John Tong
designed the suspended mirror. “We wanted a
mirror that wouldn’t obstruct the windows,” says
the homeowner. “Not easy to find! So this is perfect.”
Sink, Taps; sliding door, Loewen; mirror, Commute Home.

BRING IN ELEMENTS FROM NATURE
Opting for a wood-grained porcelain tile for
the shower instead of the original choice — real
hardwood — created the desired dramatic effect
and is much more practical. Dual showerheads
were a must: “The kids jump in every chance they
get, then dance around the deck to dry off in
the summer,” laughs the homeowner.
Photography by Nancy Tong
Wood-look tile, Stone Tile; mosaic tile, Deco-tile;
showerhead, Taps; wood block, Style Garage;
glass installation, Ace Glass and Mirror.

68 H&H FEBRUARY 2010 SEE SOURCE GUIDE

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