Unlock the Potential of Your Bayridge West Basement

In Kingston’s beautiful west‑end Bayridge neighbourhood, homeowners are discovering a smart way to make their homes work harder for them, by transforming unused basement space into modern, legal secondary suites. Whether you’re thinking about adding a rental suite to generate extra income or creating a comfortable in‑law apartment for family, our design team can help bring your vision to life.  

We specialize in turning existing basements into bright, welcoming apartments that meet all building and safety requirements. Recently, our team completed a Bayridge West basement conversion that perfectly showcases what’s possible. The project began with a typical retro rec room, finished but dated, cozy yet underused. Today, it’s a stylish two‑bedroom apartment with its own private entrance, providing flexibility for multi‑generational living or a steady rental income stream.  
(Images Courtesy of She Shoots Inc.)

A central part of the design was optimizing space to make every square foot count. By removing an old fireplace, we opened up the layout and reclaimed enough space to add a second bedroom, a key feature that makes the suite both functional and appealing to renters or family members. The kitchen, meanwhile, was designed around existing plumbing in the laundry and mechanical areas. This practical approach reduced renovation costs while allowing for a fresh, modern kitchen layout that serves as the heart of the new suite.  

Light was another major focus. Nothing transforms a basement like good natural light, so we added a new kitchen window and installed a larger egress window in the bedroom. The result is a brighter, more inviting space that feels nothing like a typical basement.  
(Images Courtesy of She Shoots Inc.)

The bathroom was completely reimagined into a clean, convenient space featuring a lighted shower stall and a stacked laundry pair, thoughtful touches that make day‑to‑day living easy and enjoyable. We also made sure the entire suite exceeded safety standards, with integrated smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and proper ventilation throughout.  

Our team understands how important it is that every detail works for your family and property. We design with both lifestyle and compliance in mind, ensuring your suite feels like a true extension of your home while meeting all requirements for a legal secondary unit under both Kingston’s zoning regulations and the Ontario Building Code. Whether you plan to rent it out, welcome a loved one, or simply add long‑term value to your property, we’ll help you create a space that’s safe, stylish, and completely tailored to your needs.  

If you’ve been thinking about converting your basement, now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities. A well‑designed secondary suite can provide flexibility, comfort, and lasting financial benefits, all while improving how your home fits your life.  

Ready to get started? Contact House of Three today to get started in transforming your basement into a beautiful, functional secondary suite.