The Argyle Street project was one of those meaningful, human-centred renovations that remind us why we do what we do. A young newlywed couple had just purchased their first home together. They were warm, fair, straightforward, and genuinely hospitable to our crew, and when they shared what they hoped to create, we simply couldn’t say no.
While we were simultaneously completing several complex structural projects across the city, we made the time to squeeze this project in because the human aspect mattered just as much as the technical one.
Project Overview
The homeowner, originally from California, dreamed of having a solarium to remind her of “back home.” We transformed the existing back porch into a bright, enclosed solarium space that brought warmth and natural light into the home.
To improve access and lighting, we also cut a new opening in the exterior wall and installed a patio door on the side of the house. A patio door needs proper access, so we built a custom set of exterior stairs to match.
The backyard had an old, deteriorated garage that no longer served a purpose. The couple wanted a gardening space instead, so we demolished the garage, cleared the area, and built a new fence and gate to complete the transformation.
Every component, from design to permitting to inspection, was handled professionally and with care.
Scope of Work
1. Solarium Creation
- Transformed the existing back porch into a solarium
- Framed, enclosed, and finished the space to maximize natural light
- Delivered a warm, California-inspired retreat for the homeowner
2. Patio Door Installation
- Cut a new structural opening in the exterior wall
- Installed a new patio door to increase natural light and backyard access
- Built a custom exterior staircase to complete the entryway
3. Backyard Transformation
- Demolished the old, unused garage
- Cleared the area to create a gardening space
- Built a new fence and gate for privacy, security, and aesthetics
4. Engineering, Permits & Inspections
- Designed the full scope of work
- Obtained all required permits
- Passed all City inspections
Project Outcome
The Argyle Street project became more than a renovation, it was a gesture of support for a young couple starting their life together. We delivered a bright solarium, a new patio door with proper access, a refreshed backyard, and a clean, functional outdoor space ready for gardening.
This project reflects our belief that good contracting is not only about technical skill, it’s also about people, relationships, and doing the right thing when it matters.
If you’re planning a structural renovation, need exterior wall modifications, or want to transform your home with customized, human-centred solutions, our team is ready to help. Reach out to explore engineered, code-compliant renovations that make your home brighter, stronger, and more enjoyable to live in.
- What Our Client Said
- Neva
- Argyle St, Toronto
- Alex did a fantastic job! I wanted to build a custom solarium for my tropical plant collection, a project for which I had only a vague vision and very limited understanding of the actual work involved. Alex was extraordinarily helpful in working out the nuts and bolts, guiding my decision-making in areas where I had little experience and going out of his way to find creative solutions for the many difficulties associated with realizing this one-of-a-kind project in a very tight space. The final result is beautiful as well as functional! Alex also removed an interior wall in a separate part of the house, exposing and cleaning an aesthetically attractive brick portion that had formerly been hidden by plaster. Not only is Alex technically skilled and creatively talented, but he is also very organized, communicative, and transparent. It was easy to ask questions and get quick answers, and he always made sure I understood the advantages and disadvantages of various choices. He clearly outlined his workflow and updated me whenever his plans changed, and he was very upfront about the cost of individual project elements so that I could trust he was being fair. He was also very reasonable when it came to unforeseen challenges; he worked especially long hours to complete the project after his work crew lost one member. I’m incredibly lucky to have found Alex for my project, and I’ll certainly call him back for my next renovation!
