Nestled among the lush terrain of a quiet neighbourhood in North York, a newly renovated mid-century split-level by Dewson Architects epitomizes the firm’s prowess in tackling formidable projects. Informed by the home’s surrounding environment – including a prominent ravine – the project came with a landscape of regulatory hurdles. Yet, given its knack for heritage preservation and sustainable design, the firm utilized a scheme of site-specific architecture to achieve a contemporary dwelling that takes into account the environment and the clients’ evolving needs.

Open Gallery Modal

Dewson’s plan for Ravine Home was fourfold. Firstly, to renovate the pedestrian, nondescript home that failed to capitalize on its exceptional site into a comfortable dwelling connected to nature. Secondly, to check the boxes on all regulatory requirements, including satisfying the TRCA (Toronto Regional Conservation Authority) which has jurisdiction over the site. Thirdly, to achieve a high level of sustainability while staying within the clients’ budget; and lastly, to give Ravine Home another 100-year lease on life.

“To start, we functionally flipped the program to de-emphasize the original design’s orientation and connection to the street, and instead open the living spaces to the side yard, giving the interiors an unparalleled view and functional connection to the ravine landscape beyond the property lines,” says Dewson.

Open Gallery Modal

Due to regulatory constraints, the team was unable to expand the home’s pre-existing footprint, and instead augmented the orientation of the home in order to create more living space. “Sustainability is a real juggling act between what you want to bring to a site and what the site is already giving you,” says Dewson. “It ties back to that saying of ‘the most sustainable home being the one that already exists.’”

Open Gallery Modal

All the main living spaces were relocated on the main floor to better connect to nature, while the principal suite was designed as a small second-floor addition, giving the impression of living in a luxurious tree house, thanks to large floor-to-ceiling sliding doors blurring the indoor-outdoor boundary.

In addressing the need for sustainability, Ravine Home’s design integrates passive ventilation for cooling, an airtight envelope to minimize heating/cooling loads and foundation reuse to reduce costs and embodied energy. Additionally, triple-glazed windows, strategic orientation, and durable materials enhance efficiency and longevity, epitomizing sustainable living.

Open Gallery Modal

Inside, a clean interior aesthetic optimizes natural light and allows for unobstructed vistas of scenic viewpoints from every angle of the home. In the living/dining area, light spills in from the sprawling wall of windows and a walk-out to the side yard.

Open Gallery Modal

Despite the challenges that come with such a site, Dewson believes we ought to celebrate unique properties like that in which Ravine Home is situated. “There are often trade-offs when it comes to designing sustainably,” he says. “But it also allows for a natural balance in every design aspect.”

The majority of Ravine Home’s cladding is made of fibre cement, a selection made for its low maintenance and long-lasting potential (Dewson says up to 200 years). In contrast, western red cedar wraps from the top-floor addition around toward the home’s front entrance, providing a touch of warmth to the home’s exterior at every angle.

Open Gallery Modal

In its final state, Ravine Home showcases an adeptness in navigating both architectural challenges and environmental considerations. By seamlessly blending site-specific design with sustainability principles, the home not only harmonizes with its natural surroundings but also ensures a renewed longevity and minimal environmental impact for years to come.

The post Ravine Home’s Renewal Embraces Site-Specific Architecture appeared first on Designlines Magazine.

As more and more disciplines are being defined by speed, dupes materialize daily on doorsteps and overconsumption is rampant as trend cycles race against time. In contrast, the slow-living mindset embraces the careful curation of high-quality products made to last. Beyond fashion and food, a reach for the quality of things past has also inspired a slow furniture movement, driven by the ethical design, production, and consumption of furniture.

Today, there is a growing number of slow furniture shops popping up across the city. And though second-hand furniture is an excellent way to adopt slow furniture practices, these three Toronto brands highlight its own mindful design approaches wherein quality comes first.

Mim Concept

This self-proclaimed slow furniture shop creates mid-century modern furniture that is as high-quality as it is affordable. With solid wood structures and steel frames, these are furniture designs built to last – and if they don’t, Mim Concept offers a lifetime warranty. Its collections may be small (the entire furniture catalogue is under a dozen beds, dressers, stools, and various tables), but it’s also mighty; dedicated to careful design that appreciates the time it takes to garner great results.

hollis+morris

With a newly opened workshop and showroom just north of The Junction, hollis+morris is taking its commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability to the next level. The LEED Platinum Certified slow furniture brand utilizes locally sourced FSC-certified walnut and white oak wood throughout its catalogue of products. Light fixtures feature LED technology which reduces carbon emissions and provides long-lasting illumination. Careful to embody sustainability values in all aspects of production, the team at hollis+morris also uses 90% recyclable packing materials.

Black Bear Woodworking

A small family-owned business, Black Bear Woodworking has been supplying the greater Toronto region with high-quality wood furniture since 1993. With a variety of styles, this slow-furniture brand provides high-quality millwork, cabinetry, and bespoke furniture for homes, retail, and office spaces, as well as made-to-order production work. Black Bear Woodworking prides itself on durable designs made by hand with locally and sustainably sourced material.

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Second Life

Emerald isn’t the only green feature of this retro-style rug. Made of 60 per cent recycled fibre with a fully recycled cotton backing, the Faceted Tile rug is designed to better your living room and the planet. It’s vibrant pattern offers a modern look with a touch of retro-style. From $599, at West Elm.

Great Outdoors

Designed exclusively for Simons Maison sustainable line of home goods and fashion, the sand-toned Braided Cotton and Wool rug is made of a recycled wool and cotton blend – reducing water waste by more than 80 per cent. Use it indoors and out to optimmize its impact. $130, at Simons.

Ripple Effect

Low-impact textiles are one of many ingredients in Creative Matters’ recipe for sustainable rugs. From its Sonance collection, the Chord rug marries this principled ethos with an artistic design of bright spearmint hues and rippling curved lines. From $10,895 at Creative Matters.

Shining

In its bright yellow pigment, the Mustard Cleo Handwoven Kilim rug is made of 100 per cent natural wool – an organic material that also happens to be fully renewable, biodegradable and recyclable. Not to mention, this is a product with quality to last a lifetime. From $135, at Mumo Toronto.

Housewarming

Despite its name, Cold Picnic will warm up your home with its range of small-batch and ecofriendly rugs. The ultra-modern Denis Denis runner is made of 100 per cent TEX New Zealand wool and manufactured using 100 per cent solar energy. Approx. $500, at Loversland.

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As the world embraces a shift toward sustainable design, it’s natural that our homes reflect the changing times. From near-silent ceiling fans to a self-watering countertop garden, we’ve rounded up some green tech to enhance the way you experience and live in your home.

Ember Smart Temperature Control Mug 2

Say goodbye to lukewarm coffee. With a built-in battery and smart LED system, this future-proof mug keeps your cup of joe at a perfect drinking temperature of 50 C to 62.5 C. $200, at Indigo.

Nanoleaf Elements

The customizable panels of Nanoleaf’s latest release create a warm, natural glow in any space. This system’s compact design and handy Bluetooth feature make it easy and energy-efficient to ditch harsh overhead lighting for something more curated. $250, at Nanoleaf.

Smart Garden 9

Bring the outdoors in with this compact and minimalistic home garden. From your laundry room to your kitchen counter, this small but mighty green tech device sustains the growth of your fresh herbs, veggies and flowers with its self-watering feature and controlled lighting. $259, at Best Buy.

Aviator Flush Smart Ceiling Fan

Sleek and modern in its design, this near-silent ceiling fan by Modern Forms is equipped with a three-blade configuration and low-noise DC motor for a seamless integration into any environment. Control and customize the settings with the device’s RF wall control or through your smartphone using the Modern Forms app. Approx. $822, at Robinson Lighting & Bath.

RainStick

Saving you water, energy and money, this bathroom green tech uses a Wi-Fi embedded circular system to keep your water levels as low as possible. With a partnering app, you can monitor how much water you’ve saved, plus change temperature and flow rate to your desired need. $6,600, at RainStick.

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There’s no reason your outdoor space can’t be both stylish and sustainable. To help make the most of your summertime sanctuary, while keeping the planet in mind, we’ve rounded up a few low-impact products from some of our favourite local retailers. Whether you’re furnishing a petite balcony or a big backyard, these green products are sure to enhance your green space.

Marimekko Hammock, $269 at West Elm.

Swing, Swing

This playful summer staple will make you feel like you are sleeping on a bed of flowers. With a bright ’70s floral print and premium canvas, the Marimekko Hammock is both fashionable and built to last.

HAY Palissade Cone, $680 at Design Within Reach.

Perfect Balance

A sustainable outdoor tabletop set ideal for terraces, balconies and patios, HAY’s Palissade Cone table and chairs are a chic addition to any outdoor space. Bring the Parisian flare to your backyard with this sustainable set.

Ridge Chair, $3,368 at Hut K.

Stoic Style

The Ridge Chair is made from responsibly sourced teak, aluminum framing, and a soft cushion that makes you feel like you’re lounging in an outdoor study. This chair is perfect for design lovers that love to enjoy a book under the Sun.

Andreas Bench, $1,059 at Hauser.

Modern Backyard

A blend of Danish design and mid-century modern makes the Andreas Bench a unique and contemporary sustainable outdoor statement piece. Plus, the powder-coated aluminum frame comes in a variety of colours and upholsteries to match.

Vineyard Coffee Table, price upon request at Vondom.

Wheely

Embodying the warmth of natural wood, the refined and rustic Vineyard Coffee Table is suited for any design lover’s backyard. Its convenient wheels feature a pop of bright orange to complement the wood’s honey undertones. As far as sustainable outdoor furniture goes, this system embodies the warmth of summer and the ingenuity of high-quality design.

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By opting for eco-friendly and responsibly sourced furniture, you not only contribute to a healthier planet but also create a more harmonious and inviting home. Whether you’re incorporating vintage decor or reaching for products made of recycled materials, shopping sustainably enhances the overall ambiance of your space, bringing a sense of peace and well-being that positively impacts both your health and the environment. To inspire your next shopping trip, here are some sustainable bedroom products that caught our attention.

BREATHE EASY

Sustainable bedding made from organic or recycled materials ensures a healthier sleep environment. The Tatami mattress uses organic latex foam that acts like memory foam without any of the petrochemical or toxic ingredients. Designed to maintain clean air for a healthy night’s sleep, the mattress was even tested and determined by Johns Hopkins School of Medicine to be impervious to dust mites. Sleep tight knowing that this sustainable bedroom furniture piece is working hard to keep you resting easy. From $2,448, at Essentia. 

SUMMER SLUMBER

Every earth-friendly bed needs a bed set to match. Like all Wilet products, the Heirloom Quilted Set features ultra-soft organic linen, one of the most low-impact textiles in the world. The naturally temperature-regulating material makes for a cool yet cozy sleep during warmer months. From $540, at Wilet.

OLD TIME

With greenwashing on the rise and alarm bells ringing over the environmental consequences of online shopping, finding a truly sustainable piece of furniture can quickly become an exhausting feat. When in doubt, vintage and reclaimed products offer a sure way to reduce your carbon footprint. Better yet, shopping local for large pieces like this 8 Drawer Teak Dresser from Guff will keep your bedroom green and looking specially curated. $845, at Guff. 

WOVEN

Kenyan sisal fibre is used by local artisans to craft Obakki’s chic alternative to traditional hampers and bedroom storage—one of our favourite sustainable products when it comes to bedroom decorating. In a deep black finish or red/beige blend the handmade Sisal basket crosses global flair with a modern aesthetic.  $145, at Obakki. 

SUN LIGHT

If you’re looking for something both sustainable and stylish, look no further than Graypants’ Moon Scraplights Table Lamp. Featuring a sturdy brass frame, black cord, and durable rocker switch, this chic table lamp is made from recycled cardboard. Take it one step furniture and opt for energy-efficient bulbs, they’ll reduce your carbon footprint and save on utility bills. $485, at Casa di Luce. 

TOUCH OF GREEN

Since its inception in 2007, WallyGrow has diverted 10+ million plastic bottles from landfills through its use of 100% recycled plastic in the fabrication of its Wallygrow Eco Wall Planter. This smart watering channel design allows water to hit the roots directly, and the front perforated holes allow for breathability to prevent common plant diseases such as root rot. Best of all, the Eco is 100% leakproof! Which means no mess in your bedroom. $45, at Urban Gardener. 

NET ZERO

Vagabond is a carbon-neutral ottoman manufactured right here in the city. Beyond a production process that creates no waste, the luxury ottoman is made with renewable wood that comprises 78 per cent of the product. As a bedside seating option or accessory to your bedroom vanity, the Vagabond makes for a healthy and stylish sustainable product for the home. $495, at Keilhauer. 

FRESH AIR

No need to compromise your sustainable bedroom with a toxic and overpowering scent. Hand poured in Parkdale, the Sourced & Salvaged Haley Lavender Black Pepper Essential Oil candle is 100 per cent Paraben- and phthalate-free. Made of soy, its slow burn will eventually leave you with a compostable cotton wick and a ceramic vessel that can be repurposed as a catch-all or planter. $40, at Labour of Love.

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With a growing list of sustainable products on the market, there’s no reason to cut corners when it comes to taking care of our planet. Keeping the climate in mind, best practices for consumers include opting for reusable or biodegradable alternatives to everyday items and considering the materials used to produce some of our favourite household goods. Need some inspiration? Here are 13 eco-friendly products on our radar that will help beautify your home and cut your carbon footprint.

The Hinoki Collection

Artfully made amongst the Mountains of Kochi, Japan, local Hinoki cypress wood is carefully selected in order to avoid overconsumption. Hand-crafted, or what the Japanese call “monotsukuri,” the Hinoki collection is made from this material and features a water bucket, toothbrush holder and bath caddy among other handy bathroom accessories. From $22, at Mjolk.

Niizh Pillow

Founded in Winnipeg, Indigo Arrows is an Indigenous-owned textiles brand that produces all of its products locally. Inspired by Anishinaabe pottery patterns that originated over 3,000 years ago, the Niizh Pillow is made from 100% natural materials and represents Indigenous culture beyond the museum. From $89, at Indigo Arrows.

Good Guest Kit

Guests on Earth is a female-founded, Toronto-based start-up on a mission to rethink the way we use cleaning products in our homes. Co-founder Jackie Prince was working from home with two small kids and cleaning constantly when she realized how much trash she was accumulating. After learning that only 9% of plastics are recycled, she set out to re-define cleaning products as not only sustainably packaged, but counter-worthy — their packaging made from recyclable aluminum and offered in small refills. The brand’s Good Guest kit is the perfect entry point into the world of cleaning as self-care — and Earth-care, too. $67, at Guests on Earth.

Silk & Snow Organic Mattress

Ever opened up a new mattress and had to let it air out for a while to get rid of that chemical smell? Silk & Snow uses eco-friendly materials such as linen and cotton, paired with conscious manufacturing and OEKO-TEX certification to make some of the best environmentally-conscious sheets, mattresses and bedding available. Plus, the brand partnered with EQ3 (a retailer growing its roster of sustainable products) to bring their wares to brick-and-mortar stores — find one near you to avoid shipping costs (and carbon emissions)! From $700, at EQ3.

Lohn Candle

Lohn‘s scented candles can be spotted in many design shops in Toronto — and for good reason. The brand’s delicious scents are inspired by an ancient trade route called the Amber Road, which crosses the founder’s home countries of Poland and Estonia. Made of soy and coconut-based wax and cotton wicks, the sustainable candles are packaged in recyclable glass jars (we love to use these as drinking glasses after use — they are food grade!). And best of all, they’re all made by a small team of artisans in Toronto. $42, at 313 Design Market.

Polar Array

The Polar Array light makes a statement by way of a bold geometric appearance and customizable configurations. Manufactured right here in the city, this eco-friendly light fixture consists of 100% recyclable components as well as zero-plastic acoustics. Similar to many other aaline products, the Polar Array is B Corp certified and the entire manufacturing process is powered with green energy. Pricing available upon request, aaline.

Salam Teapot

Inspired by her upbringing in the South of France, Clementine Boutique founder Christina McDowell was tired of constantly having to repurchase kitchen tools after a short use. Her solution: high-quality, long-lasting, sustainable products. Made by dedicated craftsmen in France, the Salam Teapot is an elegant tea kettle with a loose-leaf infuser. Aside from keeping 20,000 teabags out of landfills (and counting) the mid-century-inspired teapot has even earned its own spot in the MoMA, taking the “art” of tea brewing to a whole new level. From $239, at Clementine Boutique.

Le Bonnet Beanie

Comprised of 100% biodegradable natural fibres manufactured in Scotland, the Le Bonnet beanie is woven from ethically sourced lambswool. Durable and warm enough to withstand Toronto’s most brutal winters, this cute and cozy toque is one of our favourite sustainable products in fashion. $105, from Erin + Co.

Cheers! Puzzle

Puzzles that double as wall art? Sign us up. Known for decorative puzzles that feature artwork created by up-and-coming female artists, Vancouver based brand Fits creates linen-coated puzzles made from recycled cardboard. While the Cheers! 1,000 piece puzzle features dreamy photography by Quinn Poer, the brand works with a multitude of artists who create with varying mediums and represent cultures from all over the world. From $40, at Rose City Goods.

Woodland Animals

No single use plastics here! Even the kiddos can do their part in caring for the planet with littleyoyo’s collection of eco-friendly wooden children’s toys. Inspired by their son Yoyo’s love of dextrously challenging games, founders Jerry and Yajun source toys such as the Woodland Animals puzzle, that both stimulate young minds and won’t have you scurrying to clear scattered pieces off the floor when guests arrive. $40, at littleyoyo.

Pink Moons

The Pink Moons rug is one of the many antique Moroccan rugs placed in the careful hands of Atelier Nomade, who’s focus is on low impact sustainable products for your home. The Pink Moons rug, originally woven in the 1930’s by the Beni Mguild tribe, has only required minor restorations since its creation. Step your thrifting game up with timeless authentic pieces such as this, which have been passed down through generations. $5,989, from Atelier Nomade.

Maple Syrup Jug

Adored by all West End Torontonians, Roncesvalles Avenue houses a strip of the city’s favourite small businesses, including Ecotique! The local shop sells a multitude of sustainable gifts, toiletries, kitchen products and home goods that replace single use and non-recyclable alternatives. With this maple syrup jar, you’ll never have to deal with a sticky plastic syrup containers ever again. $50, at Ecotique.

Organic Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set + Duvet Cover Set

Committed to shifting towards more sustainable products, Rove Concepts first launched the organic bamboo Rora bedding collection in 2019. In contrast to its less sustainable predecessor – cotton – bamboo fabric has antibacterial and moisture wicking properties for maximum comfort and requires less water during production. Sleep peacefully knowing you’re wrapped in sheets made from eco-friendly materials. From $199, at Rove Concepts.

The post Sustainable Products to Beautify the Earth – and your Home appeared first on Designlines Magazine.

High in price and demand, timber is one hot commodity. But a component on the decline for this material, specifically in wood flooring, is the environmental impact of its manufacturing. From forest-management to the use of salvaged materials, these four solutions offer sustainable flooring options built to stand the test of time.

AUTHENTICALLY RUSTIC

Calling all history buffs: this repurposed wood flooring from Timeless Materials is the perfect way to add a vintage touch to any interior. The company salvages wood from local historical sites to sustainably create planks in a range of sizes. And the best part? It’s manufactured right here in Ontario. From $5/sq. ft., at Timeless Materials Co.

WOOD YOU RATHER

Why sacrifice style for sustainability when you can have both with Relative Space’s Chico collection of wood flooring? Devoted to caring for the planet, the Toronto brand adheres to eco-friendly practices in all of its manufacturing – from ensuring sustainable forest management to preventing deforestation. Custom pricing upon request, at Relative Space.

COLOURFUL CORK

Available in eight vibrant colours inspired by nature, the Origem Capsule Collection by Amorim Wise is made entirely of cork – a raw material that is biodegradable, renewable and even recyclable. With its springy, flexible texture, this eye-catching flooring option protects from both environmental effects and physical impacts. Custom pricing upon request, at Amorim Wise.

CAREFULLY HAND CRAFTED

Northern Wide Plank’s Artifax collection is made entirely from recycled wood diverted from landfills. After the wood is salvaged from old barns, it is meticulously inspected, kiln-dried, planed and sawed by hand. Plus, it comes in a variety of styles, from natural to sanded to fit any project. Custom pricing upon request, at Northern Wide Plank.

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In the same way our cars and clothing are increasingly designed with the climate in mind, it’s natural that our home products are following suit. These four green machines offer sustainable solutions to everyday kitchen products without sacrificing style or innovation.

Enchantment Kitchen

Moralia’s cutting-edge (and eye-appealing) kitchen systems embody sustainable thinking in more ways than one. With panels made of natural materials like wood pulp and vegetable resin and countertops made of Corian, they’re ditching commonly used toxic sealants like melamine, phenol or formaldehyde. Plus, their integrated LED lighting is designed to run for 50,000 hours before being replaced — so you can look forward to a brighter future. Price upon request, at Moralia.

Autodos Dishwasher

Thanks to its highly efficient filter system, Autodos reduces water consumption to 8.9 litres for a full load — meaning less electricity is needed to heat it. It calibrates the amount of dishes in the chamber and carefully adapts its water consumption — so you can clean a half-load with a clear conscience. From $3099, at Miele.

Silestone Countertops

Designed for both style and sustainability, Cosentino’s Silestone countertops combine natural minerals and recyclable materials to create stunning slabs that mimic marble – minus the heavy carbon footprint. Offered in multiple colours and patterns, these durable countertops fit in with any kitchen style. Price upon request, at Cosentino.

Drava Faucet

The Drava Faucet’s innovative criss-cross stream — known as the Mikado stream, after the Japanese stick game of the same name — saves water while preventing splash back. The faucet is equipped with a pull-out sprayer and an elegant brass docking mechanism, making it easy to maneuver around any sink. Offered in nine versatile finishes — from brushed gold to matte black — it’s a showpiece addition to any kitchen. Price upon request, at Vogt Industries. 

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In the quest to reduce our carbon footprint as well as improve our living environments, small choices matter. These beautiful lights not only reduce their impact during the manufacturing process (read: renewable energy, less waste and toxins) but are made from eco-friendly and/or recycled materials.

SOLSTICE

This collection by Luminaire Authentik is made with found objects that artist Jeremy Le Chatelier collects at waste facilities and construction sites. The result is a series of sculptural, one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by wabi-sabi – appreciating the materials’ imperfections. From $980, at Luminaire Authentik.

ECHO

Toronto-based brand Aaline combines architectural lighting with acoustic systems, all made with locally sourced, zero-plastic materials – a rarity for acoustic products, which are often made of plastic felt. Its facility uses only renewable energy sourced within the region, so the whole process is kind to the Earth.  Price upon request, at Aaline.

SCRAPLIGHTS

The aptly named Scraplights by Graypants are made of recycled corrugated cardboard, precision-cut with a laser to form intricate designs, then assembled by hand using a non-toxic adhesive. Just don’t let your cat anywhere near them. From $655, at LightForm.

HOZUKI

Inspired by the lantern flower, Elte’s pendant is formed completely out of paper, without any metal construction, thus reducing its carbon footprint. It’s also free of VOCs, so the air in your home will be cleaner, too. From $1565, at Elte.

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