Renovating for a Lifetime: How We Help Clients Age in Place—Gracefully and Practically

Renovation Resources

May 24, 2025

Toronto Star Article Image Age in Place
Toronto Star Logo

As featured in the Toronto Star (May 24, 2025)

At Woodsmith Construction, we’re honoured to have been featured in The Toronto Star for our recent work with longtime homeowners Doreen and Robert Berg. Their story is a beautiful example of what it means to truly live in your home—not just over time, but through time.

 

From raising children to retiring, to now creating space for their grandchildren—and even a 26-year-old Amazon parrot named Lulu—their East Toronto bungalow has grown and changed along with them. And we’ve been proud to help them shape it into a space that supports both their lifestyle and their future.

Why Aging in Place Matters

The Bergs could have moved. But they didn’t want to trade one-level living, a generous yard, and a beloved midtown location for the unknown. Instead, they chose to invest in making their home work for their next chapter.

 

“We didn’t want to leave home to have luxury,” Doreen said in the Star article. And we agree—that’s exactly what aging in place is about: making your existing home not just livable, but beautiful, comfortable, and ready for what’s next.

What We Did

For this project, we helped the Bergs refresh and reimagine their 1955 brick bungalow:

 

  • Exterior Modernization: The original red brick was deteriorating. We gave the home a dramatic facelift, bringing a clean, modern aesthetic to the exterior while respecting the home’s original proportions.

  • Interior Upgrades: We restored worn hardwood floors, added insulation, installed new doors, windows, trim, and lighting, and gave the entire home a fresh coat of paint.

  • Dream Ensuite: Doreen’s wish list—separate shower and bathtub, better lighting, and more comfort—was brought to life in a spa-like ensuite that proves accessible design can be elegant.

  • The Parrot Room: The couple’s former office became a cheerful retreat for Lulu, their longtime parrot, who reportedly enjoyed the renovation chaos and even recognized some of our crew.

  • No New Footprint—Just Smarter Use of Space: No square footage was added, but every inch was made better. The result? A home that feels new while still being deeply familiar.

Our Philosophy: Build Once, Live Well

Aging in place means more than just wider doorways or curbless showers (though we do those too). It means designing thoughtfully, so your home supports you instead of working against you.

 

We consider:

  • Lighting and layout for safety and comfort

  • Main-floor living with future mobility in mind

  • High-quality finishes that stand the test of time

  • Adaptable spaces for hobbies, caregiving, or even parrots

It also means future-proofing—not just for yourself, but for your family. As Doreen said, “We didn’t want to leave a headache for our kids.” That mindset shapes many of the conversations we have with clients: renovating not just for now, but for what comes next.

Why It Matters in East Toronto

In communities like The Beach, Danforth Village, and East York, many homes were built in the mid-20th century and are now in their second—or even third—act. We specialize in helping homeowners honour the character of their homes while modernizing them for long-term livability.

 

We understand what it takes to renovate these homes well. We respect the details, the proportions, and the quirks—and we know how to work within city bylaws and aging infrastructure to create real results.

 

If you’re ready to stay in the home you love—but make it work better for how you live now—reach out to us. Contact Us 


At Woodsmith Construction, we design for tomorrow, so you can enjoy today.

Related articles

🧱 The Real Cost of Aging Homes in East Toronto (and Why Renovations Here Seem More Expensive)

Intro East Toronto’s homes have character — brick façades, narrow driveways, tall trees, and endless charm. But behind those vintage...

Featured on NKBA Pro Hub: Chris Smith of Woodsmith Construction

NKBA Pro Hub We’re proud to share that Christopher Smith, founder and lead designer of Woodsmith Construction Inc., was recognized...

Toronto Renovation Costs 2025: The Annual East Toronto Cost Index

Introduction The most common question we hear from homeowners across East Toronto — from Leslieville to the Beaches — is:...

Aging in Place in East Toronto: Smart Home Renovations for Comfort & Safety

🏡 Staying in the Home You Love, Longer Many East Toronto homeowners assume that one day they may have to...

Our Clients' Experiences Say It All

At Woodsmith Construction, we believe our clients’ experiences highlight our commitment to exceptional customer service. Explore what real homeowners say about partnering with us to achieve their home renovation goals.

Woodsmith Icon
Rev 1
Rev 2
Rev 3
Rev 4