Latest news with #customhomes
Globe and Mail
19 hours ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Toronto wrangles with a simple question: What is a multiplex?
Brendan Charters runs a 15-year-old design-build firm, Eurodale Developments, which specializes in custom homes. He is diversifying, like a growing number of Greater Toronto Area home-building firms, into multiplexes due both to demand and planning reforms intended to enable more missing middle-type housing. – But, like many contractors who have dipped their toes into this new (but actually old) market, he's come face-to-face with a slippery question: What, exactly, is a multiplex? According to the City of Toronto, a multiplex built in neighbourhoods zoned for low-rise residential can have up to four units. Council's planning and housing committee next week [June 12] will begin considering whether to stretch that definition, so multiplexes can have up to six units, with apartment buildings re-defined as anything with seven or more. However, as Mr. Charters and others – including city planning officials – have discovered, such calculations are anything but straightforward. Take the example of two semi-detached houses that could each become fourplexes. 'We're actually building one or two of these now,' he says. 'We slipped in before the City of Toronto started to say, 'Wait a second, these are duplexes. We can't fourplex them because they're semi-detached duplexes.'' In other cases, city planning examiners have deemed that such conjoined projects are actually small apartment buildings, which council has voted to allow in areas such as major streets but nonetheless run into opposition from neighbours and committees of adjustment. To confront these ambiguities, city planning staff will also propose additional categories – e.g., 'detached houseplexes' or 'semi-detached houseplexes' – to capture anomalies in the original multiplex bylaw, based on in-depth analysis they carried out on the first 222 multiplex applications submitted for approval (as of last summer). Yet another twist in this definitional maze focuses on the number of bedrooms in a given unit within a multiplex. At the same committee meeting, councillors will get their first look at a staff proposal to cap the number of bedrooms in a multiplex – a move that has left Mr. Charters wondering whether the city genuinely wants to enable more family-sized rental housing at smaller scales, per council's various missing-middle policies. 'When the planning department rolled this out to us as an industry, I said, 'What's the number?' They said there's a mathematical formula that's being devised. But I was also told one of our projects, that has a four-bedroom unit and two two-bedroom units, would be fine. The fear is that [such projects] would contravene the rooming house bylaw.' The city's attempt to regulate the number of bedrooms touches some tricky planning questions. While council has been pushing the development industry for almost two decades to build more two- and three-bedroom apartments in order to allow families with children to live in high-rises, the market reality is that condos of that size tend to be very expensive and difficult for young families to afford. What's more, demand for apartments with several bedrooms includes older people who are downsizing as well as students or unrelated adults who need to share larger apartments in order to afford rent. Yet when planning officials analyzed the first 222 multiplex proposals, they noticed a handful where each unit had six to nine bedrooms, which suggested that the builders weren't thinking about families. In effect, a single multiplex with four such apartments might have up to 20 to 30 bedrooms in total, making it for all intents and purposes a rooming house. The planning department's solution will be to impose a limit on the total number of bedrooms in a given multiplex, but allow the builder to decide how to distribute them among the units. Mr. Charters says he understands the city's desire to avoid inadvertently the development of rooming houses when there's already a formal process for licensing them. But, he adds, the bedroom cap 'is confusing for the marketplace. It creates another wrinkle of unpredictability for us.' The city's efforts to remove other obstacles to multiplex applications has also included a review of what happens with these kinds of proposals when they go to committees of adjustment. Since council began adopting more permissive zoning regulations in areas long set aside for detached houses, the committees have turned back missing-middle type projects, even if they generally conformed with council's goal of promoting 'gentle density.' With multiplex projects that have to pass muster with the committee of adjustment, city planners will now be expected to submit their professional opinions to help the members understand how such proposals fit within council's broader policy aims. Yet the roadblocks include perverse incentives created not by the planning bylaws but rather by development charges and the financial incentives council has adopted to encourage such projects. Development charges, which can run to tens of thousands of dollars, are waived for multiplexes, and deferred for garden suites and laneway houses. Some builders have sought to maximize the density on a lot by applying to build a four-unit multiplex with a garden suite in the back. But, according to architect Craig Race, whose firm, Lanescape, specializes in such projects, contractors who want to build both simultaneously can find themselves on the receiving end of large development charge fees. 'You're allowed to do both as of right in the zoning by law,' he says. 'But the way staff are choosing to interpret the development charge bylaw, they're forcing you to build them out of sequence.' In other words, the contractor must first build the multiplex, and can only then begin with the garden or laneway suite, even though it makes sense, logistically and financially, to do both at the same time. As Mr. Race says, 'It's extremely inefficient.' One small contractor, who asked not to be named for fear of jeopardizing an approval, found himself facing $400,000 in development charges because he'd tried to do both at once, thereby triggering levies on all five units – a financial burden that has made the project difficult to justify commercially. Mr. Race adds that there's a lack of consistency in how city officials deal with this problem. 'Some staff have been trained to watch out for that. Others have not.'
Associated Press
28-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
FineCraft Contractors Hosts Open House at Redington Shores Custom Home
Behind-the-scenes home tour draws 30+ guests to view expert craftsmanship and coastal design at FineCraft's Redington Shores custom build. 'Our goal with this event was to open up how our team does the construction process and showcase the level of detail, care, and craftsmanship that goes into every FineCraft build.' — Niko Papaheraklis, Business Manager, FineCraft Contractors, Inc. REDINGTON SHORES, FL, UNITED STATES, May 28, 2025 / / -- On Saturday May 24, FineCraft Contractors, a custom homebuilder with over 40 years of experience in the Tampa Bay and DC Metro markets, welcomed more than 30 guests to a successful Open House event at a luxury coastal home currently under construction in Redington Shores. The event offered a rare, behind-the-scenes tour of the in-progress home, attracting neighbors, prospective homeowners, architects, designers, and other industry professionals. Guests had the opportunity to explore the framed residence and experience the layout firsthand before finishes were installed. 'Our goal with this event was to open up how our team does the construction process and showcase the level of detail, care, and craftsmanship that goes into every FineCraft build,' said Niko Papaheraklis, Business Manager of FineCraft Contractors. 'We're proud of the response we received from the community and the professionals who joined us.' 'I was blown away effectiveness of the tour to showcase the most important part of the final results... it is obvious that Finecraft is a 1st class operation.' M.N., Designer 'Enjoyed meeting the team face to face, and hearing your speakers discuss your processes in building a new home and answering participants' questions.' G.S., Homeowner This Redington Shores project is a model of coastal luxury and resilience, featuring open-concept design, premium materials, hurricane-resistant construction, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces. The home reflects FineCraft's core values of functionality, elegance, and long-term durability—hallmarks of the company's four decades of building experience. Attendees were guided through the layout by members of the FineCraft team and invited to ask questions about building timelines, custom features, and project scope. Light refreshments were served, and the open house offered a venue to open conversations and build new relationships. Topics of discussion included custom design, construction best practices, and the FineCraft process . About FineCraft Contractors FineCraft Contractors is a premier design-build firm with a reputation for excellence in high-end construction projects, including kitchens, bathrooms, custom homes, and more. With over four decades of experience, we serve homeowners in Tampa Bay and DC Metro Regions. Our commitment to craftsmanship and client satisfaction ensures every project is a success, creating homes that bring families together in comfort and style. Alexandre Lores FineCraft Contractors, Inc. +1 727-358-9824 [email protected] Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube X Other Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Globe and Mail
20-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Five Dock Home Builder Jonathan Homes Pty Ltd Enhances Sydney's Living Spaces with Custom Renovations and Expansions
Sydney-based Jonathan Homes Pty Ltd delivers expert custom home builds, renovations, and extensions, prioritising innovative design and client-focused solutions across New South Wales. A leading home builder in New South Wales for over 15 years, Jonathan Homes Pty Ltd is a full-service company redefining modern living across Sydney with meticulously executed home renovations and extensions. From custom home builds to renovating homes and heritage properties, this fully licensed and insured company has become a go-to for homeowners seeking to elevate their properties without compromising quality or vision. With a portfolio spanning contemporary urban dwellings and heritage-inspired estates, Jonathan Homes is recognised as Sydney's most client-focused home builder. A member of the prestigious Master Builders Association, this family-owned company specialises in crafting functional, aesthetically striking home spaces. Unlike competitors, Jonathan Homes combines technical expertise with personalised service, providing clients with a single point of contact for effective communication to ensure their requirements are clearly understood. From free consultations to project management and regulatory approvals, a dedicated project manager oversees each build, providing regular updates and transparent cost breakdowns. 'At Jonathan Homes, every home is a carefully crafted environment designed for lasting comfort and functionality. We combine two generations of construction expertise with a deep commitment to high-quality workmanship. Our end-to-end management means we don't pass the buck, managing every detail of the project, from design to approvals to ensure a stress-free experience,' said company owner Jonathan Jamu. The company ensures clients enjoy a seamless, worry-free experience, handling the project with hands-on commitment from start to finish. In-house designers use advanced 3-D modelling software to visualise outcomes before construction begins, allowing clients to make informed decisions for a custom home that truly reflects their lifestyle and aspirations. Backed by a seven-year structural warranty, Jonathan Homes stands behind its work, offering extended warranties that exceed industry standards. Additionally, the company has established partnerships with local suppliers for premium materials to deliver high-quality, industry-leading solutions at competitive rates. For more information, visit Unlike volume builders relying on cookie-cutter designs, Jonathan Homes built its reputation as a top-notch custom home builder. With customisable open floor plans built to suit any space requirements, the company can design the build from scratch or work with the client's plan to bring their vision to life. The company designs flowing spaces that accommodate the client's unique living patterns and future needs, backed by excellent project management, ensuring a stress-free process from start to finish. As Sydney homeowners increasingly opt for home extensions to accommodate evolving needs without relocating, Jonathan Homes complements its top-quality custom builds with proven home renovation and extension services. Whether upgrading an existing home to a modern setting or an extension to increase the living area, Jonathan and his team provide unmatched home extension and renovation services, from enhancing kitchens and bathrooms to creating multi-functional living spaces. By incorporating premium features and clever storage ideas, the team transforms the kitchen into a functional showpiece with custom cabinetry, island benches, and high-end appliances that make cooking a joy. Similarly, bathroom renovations can add a touch of luxury with sleek fixtures and modern finishes, from freestanding tubs to personal spa retreats with walk-in showers to elevate the clients' daily routine. Beyond homes and business premises, Jonathan Homes specialises in renovating heritage-listed properties in compliance with stringent local council regulations. With a profound respect for the historical essence of these structures, these heritage experts understand the unique challenges of historical properties and how to preserve their character while adding modern functionality. As a trusted home builder, Jonathan Homes Pty Ltd crafts residences that reflect the diverse needs of modern Sydney families. With direct access to Jonathan, clients are assured of personalised support and prompt response. From sleek, energy-efficient living spaces to fully customised modern home designs, the company prioritises collaboration, ensuring each project aligns with clients' lifestyles. About the Company: Jonathan Homes Pty Ltd is a Sydney-based residential construction firm specialising in custom home builds, renovations, and extensions. Serving clients across New South Wales, the company emphasises innovation, sustainability, and client-centric service. Combining two generations of construction expertise with a deep commitment to high-quality workmanship, every home is a carefully crafted environment designed for lasting comfort and functionality. Media Contact Company Name: Jonathan Homes Pty Ltd Contact Person: Jonathan Jamu Email: Send Email Phone: 0414595933 City: Five Dock State: New South Wales 2046 Country: Australia Website:
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-one-off-tiny-house-tout-a368f7feabd145baab3e84c5a2bf5b3a.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
17-05-2025
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
This Tiny House Has Massive Windows, Tons of Natural Light, and a Built-in Security System—for Under $10K
Like seemingly everyone else, my wallet is feeling thin right now. Between updating my luggage, paying bills, and purchasing goods with hiked-up prices (thank you tariffs), I'm feeling the strain. It makes paying rent each month that much more daunting, and I'm looking for cheaper alternatives. Amazon has a storefront filled with tiny house kits, including two-story options and beach villa-inspired designs. I'm currently eyeing a modern, single-story tiny house with built-in security features and massive front windows that'll fill the space with tons of natural light—and it's only $6,900, which is four times less than a year of rent for my New York City apartment. With modern touches like floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-concept floor plan, this tiny house provides ample space for a reasonable price. The manufacturer, BoxLK, gives shoppers the ability to customize the house, updating key features such as the total square footage, number of bedrooms, and whether you want a showerhead installed in the bathroom; saving you money and time on installing one yourself later. The entire space comes nearly move-in ready, with cabinets, plumbing, and electrical pre-installed at no charge. Customizations like the total square footage (options include 400 or 800), number of bedrooms (you can have up to three), and flooring color come at an extra cost, but only require messaging the manufacturer through WhatsApp. And it's still more affordable than hiring a contractor to design and build a traditional home from the ground up. What makes this tiny house really stand out is the built-in security feature within the front door. Most entry doors come with a deadbolt lock, but the front door to this home uses a C-level lock core that, according to a brand representative for BoxLK, is difficult for keys to be copied, and will automatically be reinforced after locking. The latch construction also makes it difficult to pry open or pick the lock, so you can feel safer inside your home right after building. Check out some popular home goods and essentials that are also at Amazon, to help decorate and set up your tiny house, below. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
