Blank



	Hepbourne Hall reworked with flair and style by Vincent Blain Special to the Star September 8, 1990

"Metro planners interested in studying the theory of housing intensification at work might want to take a look at Hepbourne Hall, a perfect example of how housing intensification can be done with flair and style.

Hepbourne Hall is a small condominium project that is offering 24 spectacular loft-style residential condominiums in a former Church annex.

The intent of the housing intensification concept is to halt urban sprawl by utilizing existing inner city space to provide much needed housing. That's exactly what Mitchell and Associates, a design development firm, is doing by converting St. Paul's Dovercourt Presbyterian Church Annex into unique residential condominiums.

At the same time, the project will preserve a part of Toronto's architectural history as the building will most likely be designated as a historical site when the whole project, which includes restoration of the church, is completed.

The style of the old brick and sandstone building is gothic collegiate replete with all the rich architectural character of a bygone era. Features such as gracefully arched stone windows, leaded glass, stone quoining, diagonal buttresses, bartizan turrets and heavy double leaf doors combine to make this building somewhat castle like.

All of these exterior details will be preserved and restored while the interior will undergo a transformation from the traditional to the ultra modern. The open-plan multiple level layouts will have ceilings up to 12 ft. high, two-storey atriums, extensive skylighting and roof windows, wood burning fireplaces and opulent bathrooms with decked whirlpool tubs."

"Prices for the suites range from $129,900 to $329,9000 and condominium fees average from $120. to $140. per month. The relatively low maintenance fees are the result of a decision to concentrate costs on design features and fine finishing details rather than recreational features."

"Within the foyer, a side hung set of stairs lead up to the catwalk backed by a glass wall view into the atrium/deck. The atrium/deck, located in the centre of the suite, is an oasis of light surrounded entirely by glass.

On either side of the atrium, sliding class doors from the den or the master bedroom provide access to this second-storey garden. Another set of sliders leads out onto the catwalk overlooking the foyer."

"Located within an established residential neighborhood, within walking distance of shopping, the subway and schools, the Hepbourne Hall condos are a perfect example of how housing intensification can work to enrich the everchanging face of the city."

Home, A Design Philosophy, About Mitchell & Associates,
Printers Row, Loft House, Mayfair, The Glebe,
Past Projects, Award Projects, Press,
Contact Mitchell & Associates