Life Down A Lane by Tom Robertson Unveils Hidden Courtyard

Located in the Richmond neighbourhood, the contemporary family home is surrounded by neighbours on all sides. So, the design balances privacy and openness through materials and form.

“From the outside, the form is robust, predominantly solid and slightly defensive,” the studio said. “Once inside, however, it opens up to a central courtyard, which is the home’s focal point, with spaces configured to look inward.”

The building plans were informed by the exterior considerations of the plot and orient easily to provide maximum sunlight and privacy.

To create space for the courtyard in the basement, the living spaces were elevated by Robertson to the first floor and placed a master bedroom with an ensuite, two child bedrooms with a shared bathroom, directly on the ground.

“In contrast to the monochromatic external palette, the interiors are composed of calming, lighter tones,” the studio said.

The entrance passes through the living spaces along the brick courtyard, separated by tall metal-framed glass doors.

The courtyard has bricks inlaid in a gravel bed, surrounded by greenery. Large, full-width pivot doors allow the courtyard to flow through the full depth of the site.

Next to the entry is the kitchen, which sees a sculpted solid marble island bench as the focal point. The kitchen is completed with rows of bare-light wooden cabinetry and a hidden pantry accessed through sliding glass panels.

The floor then transitions to darker wood in the semi-open dining space, which includes white chairs with a matching marble dining table that mimics the surface of the kitchen island.

A dramatic full-height window projects out from the green-sided lane, with a stool beside the floor-to-ceiling window.

“Outlooks onto the lane from the dining space are framed by a double-height metal shroud and a planter box, allowing views outward but controlling views looking in,” said the studio.

The living area has a similar furniture configuration, with an L-shaped green couch, a white TV console and an abstract artwork set on a slat wall.

“The living space is treated simply with minimal joinery and materials,” the studio said.

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Off the living space is a roof lantern fixture designed to draw more light into the home. The glass side faces the central courtyard, while a corner staircase provides access upstairs.

Further illumination is achieved through clerestory windows that let light in through the peaked ceiling of the living area.

“Providing a refuge from the urban environment outside, the house provides security and space for home life to grow,” the studio said.