“ Periscope House is a renovation-addition project in East York, Toronto, where a single-story bungalow was transformed into a personalized and sustainable home for a young family. Initially designed as a full two-story addition, the project was reimagined due to pandemic-driven cost increases, resulting in the removal of half the second floor and the creation of dramatic double-height spaces below. This design, inspired by forms like a periscope or antique camera, balances zoning constraints and budget limitations through clever spatial organization, stepped ceilings, and bay windows that sculpt light and connect interior and exterior views. Integrating the old with the new, the home demonstrates how building less can achieve more—redefining space, promoting sustainability, and offering a fresh architectural approach to urban single-family living. ”

In the architect’s own words, Atelier RZLBD