THOUGHTFUL DESIGN
Innovative narrow show home from Lexis highlights advantages of infill properties
Building an infill house has many challenges, but the advantages are obvious — a beautiful new house, mature trees and established amenities. The Lexis Homes show home at 1309 Osler St. is a classic example of what an infill house can offer and the rich design that can result.
Shilynne Ward, design and style co-ordinator, says infill houses are becoming more popular for Saskatoon buyers.
“It’s definitely more expensive,” she cautions, “but then you get the neighbourhood feel right away. And then there are amenities.”
Some builders will divide larger lots into two smaller lots, which makes the homes built there more cost effective — as is the case with home at 1309 Osler Street. Often, though, the resulting lot can be a little skinny. And that creates some design challenges.
A narrow house can sometimes feel long and small. To avoid the “bowling alley effect” the Osler Street floor plan includes an office off the foyer.
Ward calls the design “modern,” but with mass appeal. Horizontal railings and white risers create a crisp, clean look with a touch of character.
In order to maximize natural light in the main living space, Ward faced a dilemma. The house sits too close to the property line to allow for windows on the outside walls. To solve this problem, she created two small alcoves for the windows. This added some architectural interest to the space as well.
Built-in banquette seating between the window alcoves creatively solved another issue. The bench seating takes up less space than a typical dining room would. This allows for better flow and more walking room through to the living room.
The dining room also boasts a useful bar with built-in beverage fridge and cabinetry for storage.
Large windows, modern black window frame interiors and a fireplace with a minimalist mantel create an airy space that is functional and bright.
The oversized island with sink creates a contemporary workspace. The white upper cabinets extend all the way to the nine-foot ceiling providing lots of storage. And the corner pantry offers more room for storing small appliances, recycling and more.
At every turn the layout maximizes the square footage and offers more storage. By the back door, which also serves as the entrance from the garage, Ward found a way to fit a mud room and storage closet.
Upstairs homeowners will enjoy the bonus room — a unique feature for an infill home — which can be used as an extra sitting space, a study area, or a play area.
The thoughtful design continues with the vaulted ceilings in the homeowner’s suite. Ward included a dramatic shiplap feature wall in teal and vaulted ceiling. The adjoining bathroom includes a tub, walk-in shower, glass-enclosed shower, and two sinks.
The white tile and quartz contrasts with the matte black fixtures and touches of natural wood ground the entire space. The ensuite also features in-floor heating to keep your toes warm on the tile.
Despite being just 20 feet wide, this efficient design by Lexis Homes still feels spacious and airy, with enough luxurious touches to feel like a custom build. It is a testament to what good design can accomplish even in the face of challenges.
Located at 1309 Osler St., this infill show home by Lexis Homes is open for viewing Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m.