Today I went to visit Duncan, an old friend from Seton Villa Board, who a couple of years ago downsized and built his own laneway. On a quick whim we rushed off to see him before our other appointment. His youngest daughter lives in the main house now and Duncan was busy planting edging plants in the front yard.

In walking to the back there is more planters and flowers. Every square inch has been utilized including vertical planters.

The back of the house consists of the kitchen and the living room with a solarium in the middle of the space between the living room and the kitchen. It is full of plants now but initially it was second entrance but turns out it was too steep.

The living room is full of persian carpets covering the entire floor in different directions and patterns. The whole space is bright and alive with multiple windows and skylights offering an spectrum of different light effects. Above the kitchen island is a ceiling hung wood shelf with various artifacts from his world travels.

One of the challenges of downsizing was getting rid of books and artifacts that you hold precious, even having a professional psychologist and downsizer to help. Duncan had put up a attic ladder for some extra storage, filled with books and boxes, and this is AFTER getting rid of most of his artifacts.

The laneway has all the bells and whistles: infloor heating, induction stovetop, triple glazed windows and 6 inch walls providing excellent insulation. With all these sustainable feature a PMT ( Pad Mounted transformer) was not needed however a air conditioner was installed in the ceiling in case of hot summers.

Duncan was inspired by Turkish bath so head a circular shower installed with a skylight central overhead. The incredible tilework took almost 6 weeks, twice as long as construction of the house.

Bench and storage by the window suited for both seating and for plants like the lemon tree that needs to be taken indoors when frost comes.

The plan of the house was efficient with kitchen as central hub by which visitors circulated. The only drawback to the house was lack of closets Duncan commented.

Thanks to Duncan for an inspiring tours. Should give credit to Smallworks for this exemplary project.

Silverhubliving is developing a similar laneway house of approximately 615SF that is suited specifically for seniors.

Call Dan @778 990 7993 for more info.