Case Study: 45 Morenz Crescent Secondary Suite Conversion

When our client took on the challenge of purchasing 45 Morenz, their vision was clear: to transform this single-family home into a highly profitable investment by adding a three-bedroom secondary suite.

Originally designed with a finished basement featuring two bedrooms, the property was the perfect starting point for such an upgrade. The goal was to utilize this potential for additional rental income and boost property value. The journey from concept to completion involved a series of meticulous steps and creative solutions, from removing an outdated furnace to redesigning the layout for optimal lighting and functionality. This blog will take you through the process, highlighting the challenges, solutions, and standout features that made this project a remarkable success and a shining example of smart property investment in the heart of Kingston.

Client background:

Originally, 45 Morenz was a single-family home, featuring a finished basement that included two of the property’s 3 bedrooms, but it was clear that this setup did not fully encapsulate the property's potential. Our client envisioned transforming the space to include a three-bedroom secondary suite, aiming to generate rental income and significantly boost the property's market value. This strategic renovation was motivated by the potential financial benefits of having an additional rental unit, which could provide a steady stream of income for the client, and increase the overall worth of the property.

Design and Planning:

In designing and planning the secondary suite, we encountered several challenges and opportunities that required careful consideration and creative solutions. One significant task involved removing the outdated and less efficient furnace system that had been a part of the home's original infrastructure. To address this, we upgraded to a modern and efficient electric heating system, which not only improved the house’s energy efficiency but also provided a  consistent and controllable climate for the multiple occupants. With the implementation of an electric furnace, the property can have separate utility metres for the individual units, which is difficult with a gas furnace.

Additionally, we undertook a detailed evaluation of the suite's layout, focusing on the strategic placement of windows and plumbing to optimize the space. This process included adding a new window to enhance natural light and ventilation, which was crucial for creating a bright and airy atmosphere in the basement suite. At the same time, we were committed to reusing existing windows and plumbing fixtures in the design wherever feasible to minimize costs and preserve the original character of the home.

We also had to navigate around various structural elements of the existing house, such as beams, posts, and stairs, which presented both constraints and opportunities. Our design team skillfully worked around these elements, integrating them into the new suite's layout in a way that maintained the home's structural integrity while boosting the amount of usable space.

This meticulous planning and thoughtful approach allowed us to seamlessly incorporate the new secondary suite into the property. By addressing these challenges with strategic solutions, we not only enhanced the functionality of the space but also ensured that the addition of the suite was both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

 

Construction Process:

Navigating the construction process for the secondary suite required careful planning and creative problem-solving. This construction process required us to measure, design, and apply for permits between the offer and closing dates so that everything was set to go as soon as the property closed and they could begin construction without interruption. The construction kicked off with demolition, then on to plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and framing rough-ins. Once those were in place, they moved on to insulation, fire separations, and drywall, setting the stage for the final touches. When it came to finishes—paint, trim, cabinetry, and plumbing fixtures—the space truly began to take shape. One of the biggest challenges faced was a lack of natural light in the original living room. To address this, we included a new window in the design in order to brighten up the space. Additionally, the house had stone features that needed extra support, so a mason was enlisted to ensure everything was secure.

 

Features and Amenities:

One of the most remarkable aspects of the newly created secondary suite is its inclusion of three generously sized bedrooms situated in the basement—a feature that is both unusual and highly sought after, given the typical spatial limitations of basement areas. Unlike most basements, which often struggle with limited room dimensions, this design expertly navigates the available space to create three comfortable bedrooms, making it an ideal setting for accommodating family members or guests. In addition to the impressive bedroom layout, the suite also boasts a larger-sized full bathroom. This bathroom not only offers ample space but also exudes a sense of luxury and practicality. These carefully considered features not only optimize the functionality of the secondary suite but also significantly enhance its overall appeal, creating a living space that combines both practical utility and aesthetic charm.

Results and Impact

The transformation of 45 Morenz Cres into a legal secondary suite has yielded fantastic results! Located in the heart of Kingston, where good-sized bungalows are ripe for modernization, this project has benefited from the area's prime location, especially with the new third crossing enhancing its accessibility. By creating two separate housing units, the property not only provides affordable rental options in the area, but also maximizes use of space, making it a smart investment choice. The upgrade has notably improved living arrangements by adding more legal and safe rental options, and the switch from a central furnace to electric heat has significantly boosted the soundproofing between the two units. This change also made it easier to install separate utility meters, which can be challenging with gas systems. For anyone considering a similar renovation, removing the ductwork after eliminating the furnace is highly recommended to enhance sound insulation and simplify utility management. Overall, the project has been a great success, blending practicality with profitability and setting a new standard for property investment.

Conclusion:

The transformation of 45 Morenz Cres into a legal secondary suite has yielded fantastic results! Located in the heart of Kingston, where good-sized bungalows are ripe for modernization, this project has benefited from the area's prime location, especially with the new third crossing enhancing its accessibility. By creating two separate housing units, the property not only provides affordable rental options in the area, but also maximizes use of space, making it a smart investment choice. The upgrade has notably improved living arrangements by adding more legal and safe rental options, and the switch from a central furnace to electric heat has significantly boosted the soundproofing between the two units. This change also made it easier to install separate utility meters, which can be challenging with gas systems. For anyone considering a similar renovation, removing the ductwork after eliminating the furnace is highly recommended to enhance sound insulation and simplify utility management. Overall, the project has been a great success, blending practicality with profitability and setting a new standard for property investment.