Roncesvalles's early 20th century worker cottages and semis — concentrated on quiet residential streets just steps from the vibrant Polish-heritage commercial strip — are among the most sought-after homes in west-end Toronto, and a second storey addition is the most effective way to double their living space without leaving the neighbourhood. Kopman Build has been structurally integrating second storeys onto Toronto's older housing stock since 1999, managing every step from engineering through occupancy permit.
Roncesvalles is gentrifying rapidly, with full gut renovations now common on the neighbourhood's Victorian and Edwardian semis and detacheds. A second storey addition is the defining move: it transforms a modest 800–1,000 sq ft cottage into a full-sized family home without requiring a move. On a block where comparable properties are selling above $1.5M, the math on adding square footage is compelling.
The Polish-heritage commercial strip on Roncesvalles Avenue and the walkable neighbourhood character mean demand for family-sized homes here consistently outpaces supply. Owners who invest in a well-executed second storey addition — integrated structurally, matched architecturally, and finished properly — capture that premium.
Kopman Build brings 25+ years of experience working with Toronto's older housing stock. We coordinate the structural engineering, permit drawings, Committee of Adjustment applications (when required), and all trades under a single contract — so nothing falls between the cracks on a project this technically demanding.
Engineering review of existing foundations, walls, and load paths to confirm and design for second-storey loads before any commitment.
Complete new floor above the existing main level — bedrooms, bathrooms, hallway, and staircase fully integrated with the original structure.
Roofline, cladding, and window detailing designed to complement Roncesvalles's Edwardian and cottage streetscape, not fight it.
Full building permit application including structural and architectural drawings, plus Committee of Adjustment if minor variance is required.
Complete interior finish — insulation, drywall, flooring, trim, bathrooms, and millwork — to a consistent standard throughout the new floor.
Staircase relocation or addition, ceiling repairs, and mechanical updates to the existing main floor as part of a cohesive whole-home project.
We visit your Roncesvalles property, listen to your goals, and document the project in writing — scope, budget, and timeline.
A detailed line-item estimate with allowances and contingencies, so you know the number before committing.
We manage all permit applications, structural engineering, architectural drawings, and Committee of Adjustment if required — nothing falls through the cracks.
Full-time site supervision, weekly updates, and open-book cost tracking throughout the project.
Structured handover with all documentation, warranties, and a 12-month attendance window post-completion.
A second storey addition on a Roncesvalles worker cottage or semi typically runs $350,000–$650,000+ depending on the footprint, structural requirements, and finish level. Roncesvalles homes often have narrow lots and older roof structures, which require careful engineering. Kopman Build provides a detailed line-item estimate before any commitment.
Yes, in most cases. Roncesvalles's early 20th century cottages and semis were built with masonry foundations and load-bearing walls that can be engineered to support a second storey. A structural engineer will assess the existing walls, foundations, and soil conditions as part of the pre-construction process. Kopman Build manages all engineering coordination.
Plan for 8–14 months of construction from permit approval, plus 4–8 months for permits and approvals before construction begins. Depending on your lot coverage and setbacks, a minor variance from the Committee of Adjustment may be required, which adds time. We give you a realistic total schedule from the first meeting.
Yes. A second storey addition always requires a City of Toronto building permit, structural drawings, and an architectural set. Depending on the proposed height, lot coverage, and setbacks relative to zoning bylaw limits, a minor variance application to the Committee of Adjustment may also be needed. Kopman Build handles the full permit and approval process.
Kopman Build builds second storey additions on Roncesvalles cottages and semis. No-obligation consultation — we come to your property.
Request a Consultation