Glenholme Ave | Garage Conversion
Toronto

Property Type: Existing Single-Family Home + Detached Garage
Proposed New Use: 1-Storey, 1-Bedroom Garden Suite (~400 sq. ft.)
Project Overview:
This project involves converting an existing 400 sq. ft. detached garage into a fully self-contained, 1-bedroom garden suite. Located on a property where the primary single-family dwelling will remain untouched, this is a perfect example of Toronto’s evolving ADU policies in action—adding much-needed rental housing without altering the streetscape or requiring severance.
Scope & Strategy:
Transform the existing garage into a fully serviced, 1-storey dwelling unit with kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
Design to meet Toronto’s Garden Suite Bylaw and OBC Part 9 residential standards.
Integrate independent HVAC, electrical, water, and drainage services while coordinating with existing site grades and setbacks.
Ensure privacy, light access, and fire separation from the main house.
Challenges Solved:
Maximized use of limited garage square footage while maintaining code-compliant clearances, insulation, and headroom.
Preserved the existing main dwelling layout without triggering major site reconfiguration.
Navigated Toronto’s garden suite approvals with zoning and servicing feasibility confirmed.
Investor/Homeowner Benefits:
Added a fully legal rental unit in the rear yard—ideal for tenants, in-laws, or long-term guests.
Maintains full use of the main house with zero impact on the primary dwelling.
Creates new income stream or multi-generational housing on an existing lot.
Current Status:
Permit Approved! Construction underway.