Yongehurst Road 01 Multi-Generational Residence

Overview

A multi-family residence designed to accommodate multi-generational living within a single, cohesive architectural framework.

Located on a 50 × 177 ft lot, the project organizes four distinct residential units—allowing a family to live together while maintaining independence, privacy, and flexibility over time.

The Challenge

• Accommodating multiple generations within a shared property

• Balancing independence and proximity between family members

• Organizing diverse unit sizes across a vertically layered structure

• Maintaining clarity of access, circulation, and spatial hierarchy

The project required a strategy that could support evolving family dynamics while preserving autonomy for each household.

The Approach

The building is conceived as a vertically distributed housing system, integrating multiple unit types within a unified volume.

Key moves include:

• Layered Organization: Stacking units to create clear separation between living domains

• Central Entry Spine: A primary entrance that anchors circulation and divides the massing

• Independent Access: Walkouts and terraces ensuring autonomy for each unit

• Balanced Composition: A symmetrical approach to massing and façade articulation

This approach allows the project to function as both a shared home and a collection of independent residences.

Design Strategy

The project reinterprets multi-family housing as a flexible, family-oriented living model.

• A range of unit sizes accommodates different generations and needs

• Duplex configurations maximize usable space within each unit

• Outdoor spaces—including garden courts and terraces—extend living areas

• Vertical zoning organizes privacy from more public to more private levels

The result is a system that balances togetherness, independence, and long-term adaptability.

Unit Distribution

The four units are carefully arranged to support a range of living arrangements:

• Unit 1 (Guest Suite): ~90 sqm (Basement) with garden court and walkout

• Unit 2: ~160 sqm duplex (Basement + Level 1) with north-side access

• Unit 3: ~195 sqm duplex (Levels 1–2) with private terraces

• Unit 4: ~320 sqm duplex (Levels 2–3) with expanded living areas and terraces

This distribution allows for flexible occupancy and future reconfiguration.

Envelope & Material Expression

The architectural language is defined by clarity and warmth:

• White stone cladding establishes a clean, unified base

• Wood elements around openings introduce texture and scale

• Carefully proportioned windows balance light, privacy, and rhythm

The façade expresses a contemporary identity within a controlled and cohesive composition.

Outcome

• Four-unit multi-generational housing within a single property

• Clear separation of living spaces with shared structural logic

• Flexible layouts supporting changing family needs over time

• A contemporary architectural response within a suburban context

Project Type

Multi-Unit Residential
Multi-Generational Housing
Suburban Infill

Key Takeaway

This project demonstrates how multi-unit residential design can support extended family living—balancing independence, flexibility, and spatial clarity within a unified architectural framework.

PROJECT DETAILS

Client: Private

Stage: Schematic Design

Architect: Iman Raeisi

Location: Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada

Area: 665 sqm