This Toronto residence is perched on a stunning ravine site, something the original design overlooked.

Fortunately, Bortolotto Architecture and Design focused on the natural beauty of its ravine locale when they were engaged to re-imagine this near century-old property.

Located in Toronto’s central downtown Summerhill neighbourhood, this once traditional 2 ½ storey house was redesigned with its lush setting in mind.

The Bortolotto design celebrates lights and views. The 2-storey wall of windows in the airy lofty living room capture its woodsy city vista setting and bathe the space in natural light.

A wood-beamed exterior canopy limits the extent of direct light during the summer season while creating a transitional focal point between the crisp interior and landscape.

Wood stairs, railings and millwork offer an earthy contrast, invoking the natural shades of the setting.

Recessed lighting positioned among the geometry of the home is both effective and understated.

The soaring lofty living space is a genius complement and counterpoint to the physical geography of the ravine it overlooks.

The master ensuite was positioned at the front of the house so the sleeping sanctuary could be oriented to the ravine.

We love this contrast, where the classical fenestration and arch imbue a spa setting amidst contemporary finishes.

Incorporating clean lines with a lofty aesthetic, the Bortolotto Urban Ravine House blurs the lines between exterior and interior, serving as an intriguing case study where architecture pays homage to its landscape.

This is a specialty of Bortolotto, celebrated here on canadianrealestatehousingandhome.ca in A House Fit For A King, City.

Learn more about this compelling firm at Bortolotto Architecture Design Inc.

All images courtesy of Bortolotto Architecture Design Inc.

Researched and Written by Emily E.A. Stringer, Undergraduate of Sociology, and Geography: Environment & Sustainability, from the University of British Columbia.