Madrigal House

Madrigal House is a precise renovation and addition to an Edwardian-era residence in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood. Rather than contrasting old and new, the project composes a careful synthesis, weaving restoration, transformation, and invention into a cohesive home for a family of five. This approach extends the life of the existing structure while refining its performance and spatial clarity.

The house unfolds as a measured passage from past to present. A restored exterior preserves the character of the neighbourhood, while the original stained-glass entry opens onto a gracious central hall. From here, the living room, music room, and reconfigured stair retain the scale and proportion of the original architecture, with newly crafted details that quietly reinterpret historic precedent.

At the rear, the addition forms the centre of daily life. A large kitchen anchors this space, where restrained material expression and precise detailing introduce a contemporary sensibility. Custom millwork, integrated seating, and carefully articulated elements support a relaxed and adaptable domestic environment, while maintaining continuity with the home’s established proportions.

Above, three zinc-clad dormers bring light and volume to the upper level, creating equal bedrooms with distinct outlooks. Below, a bush-hammered limestone facade lends texture and durability, extending outward to form the rear stair and patio. As noted by critic Simon Lewsen, the project achieves a seamless integration, resolving old and new into a singular architectural composition.