Co-Living Prototype Breaks Ground in Toronto’s Wallace Emerson Neighbourhood
Picnic Design has officially broken ground on Lappin House, an upcoming co-living prototype in Toronto’s Wallace Emerson neighbourhood.
Sited on a typical 16x100-foot semi-detached lot in the city’s west end, Lappin House is designed as a community-oriented living solution that addresses the growing need for housing in densely populated urban areas.
The 2,315 sq. ft., two-story residence will include three private units in the main house, a laneway suite, and shared spaces on the lower level, including a rec room, bike storage, and mechanical space. Additionally, the outdoor spaces will also feature communal areas.
Each unit is designed with private quarters that include a bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, and small living area. This balance ensures residents enjoy personal privacy while maintaining access to shared spaces for socializing and interaction.
"Co-living offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between living alone in a house and being part of a large, impersonal condo building,” said Joanne Lam, OAA, LEED AP, Co-Founder of Picnic Design. “Whether it's contributing to shared amenities like a playroom or simply combating social isolation, it gives people another option, one that fosters community and connection."
Building on this idea of fostering connection, Lam hopes Lappin House will inspire people to rethink their approach to urban living.
“It’s timely, given the whole housing discussion. We thought it would be good to let people know that there are other options,” she said. “We know it’s not the silver bullet to save the world, but there are other options; let’s explore together.”
As the Architect of Record, Picnic Design is collaborating with construction partners to bring this prototype to life.
