For the renovation of this 655 m² semi-detached Victorian in Toronto, Canada, Reigo & Bauer considered two primary elements: the pattern of circulation into the house and access to natural light.

“At its widest point, the house is only 6 m across, which narrows to [just under 5 m] for the extension at the back,” explains one of the firm’s founding partners Stephen Bauer. “Given those parameters, we put a lot of thought into architectural elements that would not only achieve a modern look for the extension, but would also capture sunlight efficiently while mitigating shadows and reflections cast on and from neighbouring spaces.”

Maximising daylight in all parts of a home is a key feature – and an ongoing examination – in the firm’s projects. Abundant natural light falls on the smooth, gently curved white interior walls, and the upper floor benefits from the newly expanded views. There’s also a sundeck on the roof of the two-storey extension.

As well as addressing the home’s internal design and connectivity, and implementing novel architectural elements, Stephen and his partner Merike Bauer chose innovative materials. Unit-based cladding serves to contrast and modernise the traditional brick façade. Black and white diamond-shaped metal tiles distinguish and stack the two volumes, which are also further contrasted by their independent angular geometry.

The result is a contemporary extension and internal redesign that capitalises on the plot with a new entry hub at the rear of the home, featuring an open concept mud room tucked in beside the stairwell, and the immediate feeling of flow and light.

Follow Reigo & Bauer (@reigoandbauer) on Instagram for more of their signature sculptural minimalism.

(h/t) v2com

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Toronto-based artist Fiona Freemark creates photo-based / cut-paper artworks that evoke a sense of curiosity.

Her subject matter ranges from delicate plant life and flowers to broader landscapes and forests, all delicately cut and layered to create completed works of art.

Above and below are just a few of our favourite pieces.

See more of her creations on Instagram.

(h/t) booooooom.com

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A miniature public and mobile library has been installed in Newmarket, Toronto by design group Atelier Kastelic Buffey.

The pop-up space encourages public interaction, reading and a sense of community by borrowing and leaving books to share.

The black lumber and plywood walls open like the pages of a book, exposing shelves of reading material and a space to relax and enjoy the books on offer.

At night, the doors are closed, and solar powered LED lights shine through the slatted openings, creating a striking effect.

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