Scarborough couple builds Japanese-style garden suite in West Hill backyard
Ramon and Patricia Ordona moved into their 850-square-foot home in February after two years of research and construction.
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In West Hill, Scarborough, Arthur and Cora Ordona's backyard now houses a two-storey, 850-square-foot garden suite where their son Ramon and his wife Patricia have been living for about a year and a half.
Ramon and Patricia began searching in 2022 for a newly built mid-size residence that was elegant and easy to clean. They spent two years researching options before settling on an 800-square-foot garden suite design. With Arthur and Cora's permission to build on the property, construction began in May 2024, and the couple moved in February 2025. Builder Lanescape handled the project.
The exterior evokes old Japanese townhouses, with barn board siding, sliding doors, and a covered veranda. Inside, the minimalist kitchen and living spaces are bathed in white oak and white paint to create a bright, airy feel. The main floor features an open-concept kitchen, living area, dining area, powder room, and storage under the stairs. Upstairs, there are two bedrooms and a den, plus a dramatic skylight connecting the hallway.
Thoughtful details abound: slats on the foyer stairs disperse natural light; large windows and sliding doors save space; heated floors run throughout. The kitchen, outfitted with touch-latch cupboards from Viva Cabinetry and full-size appliances, includes outlets placed tableside for charging and a hidden nook in the pantry for the couple's Roomba. Both bathrooms feature Toto Washlet bidets. The main bedroom draws inspiration from treehouse design and includes custom storage from Markae Closets.
The property sits within walking distance of East Point Park and the waterfront. A short drive takes residents to the Rouge Hill GO station and Kingston Road.
At a glance
Where is the Japanese-style garden suite located?
The garden suite is in West Hill, Scarborough, in the backyard of Arthur and Cora Ordona's property, within walking distance of East Point Park and the waterfront.
When did Ramon and Patricia Ordona move into the garden suite?
Ramon and Patricia moved in February 2025 after construction began in May 2024.
Who built the garden suite?
Builder Lanescape handled the construction of the 850-square-foot, two-storey garden suite.
What are the main interior features?
The suite features an open-concept main floor with kitchen, living area, dining area, and powder room; upstairs there are two bedrooms and a den with a dramatic skylight. Minimalist spaces use white oak and white paint, heated floors run throughout, and both bathrooms include Toto Washlet bidets.
