Coach House

The open, loft-like space exposes grand views of the main house and surrounding gardens through spectacularly large windows, yet the space itself is only 670 square feet. It was important to create separate spaces for the dual-use and at the same time not compromise the airy and open quality of the space.

The function of the guest space required common elements, such as a kitchenette, sink, backsplash, bed and closet space and yet the program required them to effectively disappear when used for the office purpose.

The functions are subtly slipped into the disguised elements: closets are tucked in to the bookshelf, the reverse side of the bookshelf also works as a headboard. The Corian countertop dips discretely to form the integrated sink and the oven and fridge are concealed behind a sliding hinged door. A long slit opens at the table to allow cable access to a computer and other devices when used as an office. Thesis research and political manifestos sit quietly next to books on contemporary art and history.

Barbora is a registered architect (OAA 2013) and principal of Barbora Vokac Taylor Architect Inc. (BVTA)—a professional architecture and interior design practice serving clients on human-centred projects focused on quality, wellbeing, and sustainability.


With works in residential, educational, commercial, new build, renovations, and interiors, the practice recognizes the importance of the sensual aspect of the human condition, and is driven by an experience-first design process rooted in integrity and intention—providing elegant and successful solutions.

Barbora's approach to architecture is a balance of contrasts: striving for tactility, beauty and atmosphere—in complement to rigorous technical resolution, longevity and usefulness. Her commitment to social responsibility, and her awareness of the impact of design on the community, drives the practice’s focus on common-sense sustainability and well being for all.

Prior to founding her practice, Barbora worked with acclaimed architects in Toronto, London UK and Montreal, developing professional expertise on award-winning institutional, commercial and residential projects. Barbora holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture as well as a Master of Architecture (MArch 2005), both from McGill University and was awarded the Ray Affleck Prize in Design, the American Institute of Architects Henry Adams Certificate of Merit and a place on the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Honour Roll.

Within the community, Barbora fosters critical discussion and advocacy through her work as an Executive Member of the Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) and the Director on the Design Industry Advisory Committee (DIAC). In addition to serving on the Program Advisory Committee at George Brown College and teaching part-time, Barbora has also served as guest critic at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly known as Ryerson University), the University of Toronto, OCADU and the Institute Without Boundaries at George Brown College.

The practice’s work has been published in the Globe & Mail, and featured on Dwell.com, DesignLines and recognized on the Dezeen 2018 Interiors Awards longlist. BVTA’s Hibou House was also included in the 2020 hardcover publication “Building Character: Transforming Old Homes for Modern Living”.

Coach House is a dual-use guest space above a main house in Toronto’s famous downtown neighbourhood, The Annex

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