This project involved building a brand-new legal basement apartment in Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, designed specifically to generate high rental income and outperform typical basement units in the area. Our goal was to maximize the value of the existing space, create a bright and functional layout, and deliver a condo-style living experience that commands above-market rent.
We began by designing a custom 2-bedroom layout, optimizing every square foot. The smaller bedroom was built with two large 36-inch removable doors, allowing the space to convert into a dining room by opening it into the living area, an adaptable design that increases long-term rental flexibility.
Next, we constructed a separate entrance and enlarged multiple windows to bring in as much natural light as possible. Once the structural work was complete, we insulated the floors using a multi-layer system: membrane, 2-inch rigid foam, and ¾-inch plywood, ensuring warmth, comfort, and sound reduction.
We then completed all framing, carefully hiding structural beams and support posts inside the walls to create a clean, modern look. Mechanical work included:
- New plumbing for the kitchen and bathroom
- HVAC upgrades for proper heating and airflow
- A dedicated electrical subpanel for safe, independent power distribution
After passing all inspections with flying colors, we closed the walls with drywall and completed the finishing stages: painting, flooring, doors, trims, and fixtures.
- The final apartment features:
- A private entrance
- Large windows in every room
- A full bathroom
- In-suite washer and dryer
These upgrades transformed the basement into a bright, modern, condo-style apartment, achieving 50% higher rent compared to typical dark, humid, poorly designed basement units in the area.
If you have an unfinished basement and want to transform it into a high-income rental suite, we can help you unlock its full potential. Make sure to read our blog, where we explain how we can also finance your basement apartment project, helping you reduce upfront cash flow expenses and start generating income sooner.
Give us a call today and let’s transform your basement into a profitable, modern, legal rental apartment.
- What Our Client Said
- George (Basement Apartment)
- Lawrence Ave E, Toronto
We’ve hired Alex and his team in spring, 2017 to build a 1 bedroom apartment in our unfinished basement. Alex was recommended to us by a friend. Alex is courteous and very knowledgeable. He is very open, knows how much his services are worth and has no plans to overcharge you or to sacrifice quality. He explained to us in details all the steps of the project, helped us to take the right decisions and stay in the budget. Once we agreed and signed the contract, there was no more discussion about money. His team finished the job in time and left the work site clean. Overall, I’m very happy with his services and looking forward to hiring him again for another project we are planning for next year.
