Divadale Dr Project

The Divadale Drive Project is a custom transitional residence built by Xavieras Inc. in Toronto. Situated on a narrow 30 × 130-foot urban infill lot, this project demonstrates how thoughtful planning, strategic design, and experienced project execution can transform a challenging property into an exceptional family home.

Designed by Homeland with interiors by VS Design, the residence was created as a timeless luxury home tailored to the needs of a busy family seeking both elegance and practicality.

The homeowners wanted a residence that would support their demanding professional lives while providing a warm and welcoming environment for their children and guests.

Completed in June 2024, the project required extensive municipal approvals, careful use of limited lot dimensions, and detailed coordination throughout construction.

Project Details

• Location: Toronto, Ontario
• Completion Year: 2024
• Construction Period: June 2023 – June 2024
• Lot Size: 30 × 130 ft.
• Home Size: Approximately 2,800 sq. ft.
• Bedrooms: 4 + 1
• Washrooms: 6
• Garage: 2-Car Garage
• Architectural Style: Transitional
• Architect: Homeland
• Interior Design: VS Design
• Builder: Xavieras Inc.
• Basement: Walkout Basement
• Smart Home Automation: Control4
• Project Type: Luxury Urban Infill Custom Home

Design Vision

The homeowners wanted a residence that would remain relevant and visually appealing for decades. Rather than following short-lived architectural trends, the design focused on creating a timeless home that balanced luxury, comfort, functionality, and long-term value.

Because of the homeowners’ demanding work schedules, the residence needed to function efficiently while providing a calm and welcoming atmosphere for family life.

The design emphasized practical living spaces, modern technology, natural light, and flexible entertaining areas.

Every square foot was carefully planned to help the home feel larger than its footprint while maintaining strong connections between family gathering spaces and private areas.

The completed residence combines traditional architectural principles with contemporary living requirements.

Planning, Approvals and TLAB Process

One of the most significant aspects of the Divadale Drive Project occurred before construction began.

The project required numerous zoning variances and extensive municipal approvals. Due to the scale and design of the proposed residence, neighbouring property owners opposed the development application during the approval process.

The project proceeded through the Toronto Local Appeal Body, where Xavieras and its consulting team successfully defended the application and secured approval.

The approval process involved:

• Multiple zoning variances
• Planning reviews
• Neighbourhood opposition
• Municipal review coordination
• TLAB proceedings
• Building permit approvals

Following the approval, the project was able to move forward into construction.

Construction Scope

Xavieras managed all phases of the project, including:

• Existing home demolition
• Site preparation
• Excavation
• Foundation construction
• Structural framing
• Building permit coordination
• Mechanical systems
• Electrical systems
• Interior finishing
• Smart home integration
• Landscape coordination
• Pool construction
• Exterior finishing

Careful scheduling and trade coordination were essential because of the limited site access and dense urban environment.

Architecture and Exterior Design

The home’s exterior combines transitional architecture with durable and timeless materials.

Premium brick masonry and precast architectural elements create a refined appearance that complements the surrounding neighbourhood while maintaining a distinctive identity.

The roof design uses a combination of flat roofing assemblies and metal roofing systems, creating clean architectural lines while supporting durability and long-term performance.

Locally sourced windows were selected to provide strong energy performance while maximizing natural daylight throughout the residence.

The completed exterior feels elegant and balanced while integrating naturally into its urban surroundings.

Interior Design and Finishes

The interior design focuses on warm and functional living spaces enhanced by modern detailing and premium materials.

Ten-foot ceilings throughout the main and second floors create generous proportions and a sense of openness. The basement continues this spacious feeling with nine-foot ceilings and carefully planned living areas.

Engineered hardwood flooring extends throughout the home, creating visual continuity and warmth across all levels.

Porcelain slab surfaces were selected for countertops and feature areas, providing durability, low maintenance, and a refined appearance.

The kitchen was crafted by Enzo Kitchens, combining modern functionality with custom details tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle.

One of the home’s defining architectural features is the custom mono-beam staircase finished in white oak. The staircase functions as both a circulation element and a central design feature.

Luxury Features

• Control4 smart home automation
• Heated floors
• Heated driveway
• Custom wine cellar
• Home theatre
• Private gym
• Turkish bath
• Sauna
• Dedicated home office
• Separate office entrance
• Butler’s pantry
• Resort-style backyard
• Swimming pool
• Outdoor kitchen
• Walkout basement

Maximizing Limited Space

A defining characteristic of the project was the efficient use of the available space.

The design team ensured that every area of the residence served a clear purpose while maintaining an open and luxurious atmosphere.

Special attention was given to circulation, storage, natural light, and room proportions.

The gym was strategically positioned beneath the garage structure, preserving additional living space elsewhere in the home.

The completed design demonstrates how careful planning can unlock the full potential of a narrow urban lot.

Construction Challenges

Building on a narrow Toronto infill lot presented several construction challenges.

Limited site access and narrow streets complicated material deliveries, equipment coordination, and trade scheduling throughout construction.

Tree protection requirements added another level of complexity during excavation and site preparation. Construction activities were carefully coordinated to satisfy municipal requirements while maintaining progress.

Neighbourhood concerns also affected both the approval and construction phases. Detailed planning, communication, and project management were required to address these issues.

Despite the constraints, the project was completed efficiently while maintaining the required quality and construction standards.

A Timeless Home Built for Family Life

The Divadale Drive Project demonstrates that exceptional custom homes are not defined solely by size. They are shaped by intelligent design, efficient planning, quality craftsmanship, and an understanding of how families live.

Through strategic space planning, advanced technology, thoughtful material selection, and attention to detail, the residence provides a balance of luxury and everyday comfort.

The completed home transforms a complex urban infill property into a timeless family residence designed for long-term use.