Queensdale Revival: Opening Up a Classic Danforth Home

Toronto | Danforth | Main Floor Renovation

Some projects are about adding more.
This one was about revealing what the house always wanted to be.

Tucked into the Danforth neighbourhood, this Queensdale home had solid bones but a first floor that felt closed-in, segmented, and disconnected from how the homeowners actually lived. The goal was clear: create light, flow, and functionality—without losing warmth or character.

What followed was a full main-floor transformation that blends architectural clarity with highly practical design.

From Compartmentalized to Completely Open

The original layout divided the first floor into a series of small, disconnected rooms. Structurally, this meant careful planning and coordination—but the payoff was significant.

By fully opening the main level:

• Sightlines now run from front to back
• Natural light moves freely through the space
• The kitchen, dining, and living areas operate as one cohesive environment

This wasn’t just about removing walls—it was about creating zones without barriers.

A U-Shaped Kitchen Designed for Real Life

At the heart of the home is a U-shaped kitchen that anchors the entire floor.

Instead of a long, linear layout, the U-shape:

• Creates efficient work zones
• Keeps everything within reach
• Allows the island to function as prep space, gathering spot, and visual divider

Key kitchen highlights:

• Two-tone cabinetry: deep, grounding lowers paired with crisp white uppers
• A substantial quartz island with seating
• Professional-style range with a fully integrated hood surround
• Generous storage, including tall pantry cabinetry

This is a kitchen designed to work hard—but look effortless.

The Oversized Novatech Patio Door: An Impression That Matters

One of the most striking moves in the renovation is the oversized Novatech patio door.

It does more than just welcome you in:

• Floods the entry with natural light
• Establishes a modern architectural tone immediately
• Sets the scale for the newly opened interior

Paired with the open floor plan, the door becomes part of the experience—not just an entry point.

Oak Slat Divider: Defining Space Without Closing It Off

Rather than traditional walls, we introduced a custom oak slat divider at the front of the home.

This feature:

• Creates a visual separation between entry and living area
• Allows light to pass through
• Adds warmth, texture, and craftsmanship

It’s a subtle move, but one that defines the home’s design philosophy:
structure without heaviness, privacy without isolation.

Custom Bench & Built-Ins: Practical Details That Elevate the Space

Integrated into the entry zone is a custom bench and cabinetry, designed for everyday use:

• A place to sit, remove shoes, or drop bags
• Storage that keeps clutter out of sight
• Millwork that feels intentional, not added on

These are the elements that don’t always jump out in photos—but they’re what make the home feel calm and livable day to day.

Light, Flow, and Continuity

Throughout the space, consistency was key:

• Warm, wide-plank flooring runs seamlessly across the main floor
• Recessed lighting is carefully layered with statement fixtures
• Neutral tones allow textures—wood, stone, fabric—to take centre stage

Even the stair refresh plays into this continuity, acting as a sculptural element rather than a visual interruption.

A Danforth Home Reimagined

This Queensdale renovation is a great example of what’s possible when:

• Layout decisions are driven by how people actually live
• Architectural elements are used thoughtfully
• Craftsmanship and restraint work together

The result is a home that feels open, modern, and welcoming—while still rooted in the character of the neighbourhood.

If you’re considering opening up a main floor, rethinking how your kitchen functions, or exploring ways to define space without closing it off, this project is a strong case study in what thoughtful design-build can achieve.

— Ashton Renovations