Custom Homes & Renovations in Riverdale, Toronto.
We are home renovation specialists helping Riverdale homeowners upgrade, expand and re-imagine their dream homes.
Riverdale is one of Toronto’s most beloved east-end neighbourhoods — a mix of classic character homes, leafy streets, and a strong sense of community. But behind its charm lies a unique set of renovation and building considerations that every Riverdale homeowner should understand before starting a major project.
At Lighthaus Built, we specialize in helping Riverdale residents navigate full-home renovations, custom additions, and new builds. Our integrated process brings clarity, craftsmanship, and confidence to every stage — from early planning to final handover.
Why Riverdale? A Neighbourhood Built on Character
Riverdale is one of Toronto’s most beloved east-end neighbourhoods—known for its tree-lined streets, classic Edwardian and Victorian homes, independent shops along the Danforth, and the sweeping views from Riverdale Park. Families choose Riverdale for its community-focused energy, walkability, and access to top-tier schools and transit.
Riverdale homes were built with craftsmanship and personality—but many now need thoughtful re-imagining to meet modern living. At Lighthaus Built, we specialize in renovating and building within older neighbourhoods, where creativity, structural expertise, and respect for heritage are essential.
Why Homeowners in Riverdale Choose Lighthaus Built
Deep experience with 100-year-old homes
Specialists in seamless additions & modernizations
Respect for neighbourhood character
Transparent budgeting and communication
Thoughtful, modern approach to renovating older spaces
High-quality finishing and long-term durability
If you are considering a home renovation in Riverdale, don’t forget to check out our extensive guide on this area of Toronto.
Trusted Partners for Riverdale Renovations
Our Proven Process
Every project begins with a comprehensive pre-construction plan, ensuring costs, approvals, and timelines are managed before work begins. This attention to detail results in smoother builds, fewer surprises, and homes that exceed expectations.
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Featured Projects by Lighthaus
SERVICES
What we can do for you.
Riverdale Home Renovations
Transform the layout, flow, and functionality of older Riverdale homes while maintaining the character that makes them special. We modernize interiors, improve natural light, optimize storage, and enhance every inch of these classic houses.
RiverDale Home Additions
Rear additions, third-floor expansions, and side extensions are common in Riverdale. We design and build additions that feel seamless—expanding your living space without disrupting your home’s architectural roots.
Riverdale Laneway & Garden Suites
A laneway home offers a smart way to add living space without leaving the property. Whether it’s for extended family, rental income, or a private studio, these suites make the most of Toronto’s evolving zoning allowances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renovating in Riverdale, Toronto
How much does it cost to renovate an older home in Riverdale?
Most Riverdale homes are 80–120+ years old, which means renovations typically involve structural upgrades, electrical rewiring, plumbing replacement, insulation improvements, and layout changes.
Full-home renovations typically range from $350,000 to $900,000+
Rear or third-floor additions: $200,000 to $600,000+
Basement underpinning or lowering: $100,000 to $250,000
Costs depend on the home’s condition, design complexity, and chosen finishes. We provide fully transparent budgets during the pre-construction phase so there are no surprises. Download our free Toronto Renovation Cost Guide to get a clearer idea.
Do Riverdale homes require special heritage approvals?
Riverdale includes pockets with heritage properties, but not all homes fall within an official Heritage Conservation District (HCD). Even if your home isn’t designated, its age often means:
You may need to preserve or work around historical elements.
Exterior changes may need additional approvals.
City staff may request documentation of original materials or construction.
We handle all heritage-related coordination, including design compliance and communication with city planners.
Will I need a Committee of Adjustment (CoA) approval for an addition?
Many Riverdale lots are narrow and shallow, which often triggers the need for minor variances. Common reasons for needing CoA approval include:
Increasing lot coverage
Rear or third-floor additions
Altering rooflines or height
Changing side setback distances
Building new front porches or altering façades
Lighthaus Built manages the entire CoA process—from design drawings to the hearing presentation.
How long does a major renovation or addition take in Riverdale?
Timelines vary by project size and existing home condition. An addition may run 4–7 months, but a whole home renovation or new custom build could vary between 8–18 months. A well-prepared pre-construction phase significantly reduces delays and keeps construction running smoothly.
What are the biggest challenges when renovating old Riverdale homes?
Older homes often come with hidden surprises. Common challenges include: outdated wiring and knob-and-tube electrical, uneven floors, aging brickwork, water infiltration or foundation cracks, and challenging access to lots due to narrow sizes. We anticipate these issues during the site investigation stage to ensure your budget and schedule are realistic.
Can you open up the interior layout of an older Riverdale home?
Yes — but it requires careful structural engineering. Most Riverdale homes have load-bearing interior walls, brick party walls, and aging joists. Creating open-concept layouts often involves installing steel beams or LVLs and reinforcing existing joists. We design structural work to bring safety, comfort, and modern flow into your home.
Is basement underpinning common in Riverdale?
Very common. Many older Riverdale homes have low basements (6'–6'5"), making them unsuitable for modern living. This is one of the highest ROI upgrades in Riverdale.
Can you preserve original features like crown moulding, brick, or hardwood?
Absolutely. Riverdale homeowners often want to retain the home’s original character, such as stained glass windows, exposed brick and original hardwood or reclaimed floors. We blend heritage charm with contemporary design to keep your home’s history intact.
How do I get started?
Book a consultation! We’ll visit your Riverdale home, review possibilities, outline budget ranges, and map out next steps for design and permitting.
Lighthaus Built’s
FREE Toronto Renovation Cost Guide
Are you considering a home addition or full home renovation and not sure how to budget for it?
Our free guide walks you through over 50 topics and how the cost of materials, labour and design ranges so you can plan for your Design-Build home renovation in Toronto, ON.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re considering a renovation to your Forest Hill home or building new, please reach out to us using the fields below.