Custom Home Design
Cranbrooke Ave, North York
The custom home on Cranbrooke Avenue in Toronto reflects Cadaxx Design’s commitment to modern living, thoughtful planning, and architectural excellence.
From concept to completion, the project focused on maximizing natural light, efficient layouts, and timeless aesthetics, creating a home that balances beauty, comfort, and long-term functionality for the homeowners.
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Project Overview
The custom home on Cranbrooke Avenue in Toronto reflects Cadaxx Design’s commitment to modern living, thoughtful planning, and clean architectural expression.
The home was designed to maximize natural light, create efficient interior layouts, and deliver a timeless, contemporary presence on the street.
From the initial concept stage, the project focused on achieving a balanced massing, refined proportions, and long-term functionality for the homeowners.
Design
The Cranbrooke custom home design process began with a detailed site review, zoning analysis, and measurements to understand all constraints and opportunities. We developed several concept options, refining massing, elevations, and layout through client feedback. Structural coordination, grading, and technical requirements were integrated early to ensure permit readiness. The final design balances modern aesthetics, functionality, and neighbourhood character while meeting all municipal standards.
3D Model
Construction
Construction of the Cranbrooke Avenue home is currently in progress, guided by Cadaxx Design from permits through site preparation and framing.
The build focuses on creating a strong foundation and structural framework capable of supporting the open layouts and large windows envisioned in the design.
Exterior finishing and roofing will follow, protecting the home as interior systems—plumbing, electrical, and HVAC—are installed.
Cadaxx Design ensures compliance with Toronto’s building codes and coordinates with trades to maintain quality and efficiency. Though unfinished, the project already reflects its modern design intent and will soon stand as a refined, energy-efficient custom home.
Permit Process
The permit process for the Cranbrooke custom home included several additional steps due to a large City-owned tree located at the front of the property. After completing measurements, zoning review, and initial design options, we coordinated with a certified arborist to assess the tree’s condition and prepare the required Arborist Report and Tree Protection Plan.
Because the tree was within the City’s protection zone, Toronto Urban Forestry required a detailed review. We submitted all documentation, responded to their comments, and adjusted the site plan and construction logistics to meet the City’s requirements. Obtaining Forestry approval was one of the most challenging parts of the permit process, but after several rounds of communication, the City issued clearance.
Once Forestry approved the application, we finalized the architectural drawings, coordinated structural and grading plans, and submitted the complete permit package through Toronto ePlans. We handled all revisions requested by the examiners until the building permit was approved.
This coordinated approach ensures that even complex sites with protected trees can move smoothly from design to construction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need a permit for a custom home in Toronto?
Yes. Any new home construction requires a full building permit, including architectural drawings, structural engineering, grading plan, HVAC, and other supporting documents. Toronto will not allow construction without approved permits.
2. How long does the permit approval take?
For custom homes, Toronto’s typical review timeline is 8–12 weeks, depending on workload and whether revisions are required. Complex sites or zoning variances may extend the process.
3. Do I need a Committee of Adjustment approval?
Only if your design exceeds zoning limits such as height, FSI, setbacks, or lot coverage. Many custom homes can be designed “as of right,” avoiding the Committee of Adjustment. We determine this during the zoning review.
4. What drawings are needed for the permit?
A complete custom home package includes:
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Site plan
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Floor plans & elevations
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Sections & details
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Structural engineer drawings
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Grading plan
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HVAC/Mechanical
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Energy compliance (SB-12)
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Survey (existing conditions)
5. Do I need an arborist or TRCA review?
Only if the property is near protected trees, ravines, or regulated areas. We check this during the initial zoning and GIS review.
6. Can construction start right after permit approval?
Yes. Once the permit is issued, construction can begin immediately, provided the homeowner hires a licensed builder and follows all inspections outlined by the City.
7. What happens if the City asks for revisions?
We handle all communication with examiners, update drawings as required, and resubmit through the ePlans portal. Clients do not need to interact with the City.
8. How much does a custom home permit cost?
City fees are based on size and are typically $5,000–$8,500 for a new home. Design and engineering fees vary by project but are quoted upfront.
9. Can you help with construction as well?
Yes. We offer support during construction to ensure the design is built accurately, assist with inspections, and resolve any issues that arise.