Case Study: Airbnb to Secondary Suite Conversion
INTRO
In this article, we’re shining a light on a smaller project with a big payoff. What started as a modest Airbnb setup–functional, but limited–has now been completely reimagined as a fully legal, self-contained 1-bedroom secondary suite. It might not span multiple lots or involve a dozen units, but this transformation came with its own set of challenges that required just as much creativity, planning, and precision by our team.
Let’s take a closer look at how this compact space was turned into something truly functional and fully compliant.
THE RENOVATION JOURNEY
Starting Point:
At the onset, this project was a basement unit that had served as an Airbnb: comfortable enough for short stays, but missing a few key ingredients required for long-term living. While it did have a wet bar sink, it lacked the stove, fridge, and the rest of a full kitchen setup that are not missed in short-term stays.
As a result, the space didn’t meet the requirements for a legal secondary suite in Ontario. That meant our first task was clear: help bring the unit up to code, while keeping things efficient, functional, and livable.
Images Courtesy of She Shoots 3D Tours
Easement Discovery and Entry Relocation
As plans began to take shape, an unexpected challenge surfaced for the construction team in the shape of an easement the owners didn’t previously know about. It quickly became clear that the original entry to the suite couldn’t stay where it was.
Rather than let this derail the project, we pivoted the design. The solution? Relocate the entrance and create a new walkdown. Fortunately, the basement was already sitting higher above grade than usual, which made excavation far less complicated than it might have been otherwise.
The result is a dedicated, private entry that feels intentional and fits seamlessly into the finished design.
Mechanical Room Reconfiguration
With space at a premium, every square foot had to work harder. To make room for a proper kitchen,our design reconfigured a portion of the existing mechanical room, carving out just enough space to fit a compact, yet fully functional kitchen setup. Stove, fridge, cabinetry; it all fits comfortably, proving that small doesn’t have to mean cramped.
During the renovation, the construction team also uncovered a lingering issue: a leak in the original bathroom plumbing that had gone undetected for some time. Fortunately, it was able to be fully repaired during renovation construction, saving the homeowners from future headaches and ensuring the suite was as solid behind the walls as it is on the surface.
Utilities, Comfort, and Compliance
Bringing the unit up to code meant more than just adding a kitchen and fixing leaks. Our design ensured the suite met all the legal requirements for a secondary dwelling, starting with separate utility meters to keep things clear and fair.
To keep residents cozy through the colder months, electric baseboard heating was installed, providing efficient and easy-to-control warmth. With these upgrades in place, the suite now offers both comfort and peace of mind, while being fully compliant and ready for long-term living.
Images Courtesy of She Shoots 3D Tours
Reflections on the Process
Every renovation has its surprises, and this project was no exception. From the unexpected easement to the surprise bathroom leak to the tight layout constraints, there were plenty of challenges to keep us on our toes.
But with smart problem-solving and a flexible approach, we turned obstacles into opportunities. We still managed to design a functional, attractive, and fully compliant secondary suite.
This project stands as a great example of how thoughtful design and creative planning can maximize space and unlock hidden potential, even in the most unexpected places.
Conclusion
From a modest Airbnb setup to a legal, fully-equipped secondary suite, this transformation proves that even small spaces can deliver big impact. We’re excited to see how this legal suite will provide lasting value; whether the owner decides to use it as rental income, multigenerational living, or simply a comfortable home.