There’s always one project that you just have to get. This time around, that holy grail was Ulster House, designed by LGA Architectural Partners. We’d been following the project’s trajectory ever since learning about ReHousing, a research initiative that attempts to provide the fledgling citizen-builder with tools to expand on existing houses and urban lots in Toronto. Janna Levitt (one of ReHousing’s founders) and Dean Goodman, partners in work and life, were using their own architectural undertaking as a paragon — a compelling case study for a tool kit that has major ambitions to densify our single-family neighbourhoods.

What they’ve created is not just a prototype — it’s a warm, lovely and inspiring home. It speaks of both the big concept and the material decisions that go into crafting a considered living space. We are so happy to show it in our 2025 Houses Issue alongside other works that similarly build on major ideas.

Also in Toronto, we spend some time in East Bayfront, where Denmark’s 3XN has created a trio — two striking mid-rise residential projects and a tall timber office building — that is defining a new waterfront district. Then there’s our cover star, by Vancouver’s Patkau Architects: a house that dreams big, letting in the city but filtering out the noise.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

SO – IL’s Masterclass on Real-Estate Economics

The New York firm on balancing the spreadsheets while bringing new and exciting dynamics into everyday living.

MAD for Denver

An eye-popping condo mid-rise in Denver features a canyon-like cascade of outdoor spaces.

Sound Ideas

Acoustic treatments for every type of interior.

Spotlight: Bedrooms

It doesn’t get cozier than these enticing solutions for bedroom layouts and furniture.