Project name: Banana Lane

Project type: renovation + addition

Location: Roncesvalles,Toronto, Ontario

Contractor: Paul Drummond

Roncesvalles Laneway house in a converted Warehouse

Banana Lane is a laneway house in Toronto, designed within the shell of a former banana ripening warehouse. Originally intended as a temporary residence, the compact home proved so comfortable and unique the clients chose to stay for good.

Exterior Courtyard, Colourful design elements & custom millwork

The design retains the existing concrete block walls to form a semi-enclosed courtyard which anchors the design. It serves as a garden backdrop for the interior and as a social space adjoining the laneway.

Colourful Interior Design Elements & Custom Millwork

A new steel-clad second storey is supported by preserved, pink-painted beams. Perforated sliding screens offer privacy and light control, while Baltic birch millwork, warm finishes, and playful details animate the interior. Banana Lane celebrates reuse, restraint, and the joy of small, well-considered spaces.

Modern dining room interior inside a Toronto laneway house highlighting warm finishes and custom Baltic birch millwork
A bright, compact residential living space inside a warehouse conversion showcasing a distinct pink-painted structural steel beam
Minimalist open-concept kitchen and dining area in a custom laneway home featuring integrated wooden cabinets and clean lines
Custom millwork that serves the entry and the dining room to make the most of a small space. Green stairs and accents give a pop of colour to the house. Large windows connect the interior to the courtyard.
A fun chalk board powder room is hidden behind wood panelling in the centre of the house.
Semi-enclosed internal courtyard utilizing original concrete block warehouse walls paired with perforated sliding privacy screens
The internal courtyard acts as the front yard of the laneway house. Designed by Wayback Architects.
The laneway house integrates seamlessly into the existing context. It signals an open nature that reflects the personalities of the clients.
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