Dear reader,

In March, the city released data revealing that only six garden suites had been built in the past two years. It was confusing news. Garden suites—housing units that can be built in backyards, in lieu of garages and sheds—were supposed to be space-saving, rent-generating tools in the fight against the housing crisis. And they still are. But sometimes it takes Torontonians a while to embrace good ideas. See: bike lanes, park drinking and the vanquishing of TTC-minted currency.

Maybe Mississaugans have more foresight. Consider Curb Appeal’s top post this week, a chalet-inspired house near Burnhamthorpe and Cawthra with a backyard office that could be its own tiny home. The little build takes cues from the main house, incorporating stone siding, hardwood floors and a dramatic feature wall.

You may not think the suburbs need this sort of thing, but the province’s population is exploding and costs are going up, so every little bit of new housing helps.

Also in today’s newsletter: $5.7 million for a Caledon escape with ecclesiastical vibes. Plus, a Muskoka compound perched atop its own peninsula. Visit torontolife.com for all our real estate coverage. 

This $4.3-million 7,800-square-foot mansion in Mississauga East comes with a backyard office and a floating staircase. The Mont-Tremblant-inspired home also has a three-car garage and room for 12 more cars on the driveway. It’s a short drive from Pearson and a 30-minute haul downtown via the 427 and the QEW. Take the tour now.

Here’s a Caledon home with two swimming holes, a winding river, a huge stone patio, a guest house and cathedral ceilings lined with original wood beams. And it’s all sitting on 34 acres of land. 

What cabin in Muskoka would be complete without 1.5 acres of land, a Sicilian kitchen, floral drapes, a bench swing in the veranda, a Flintstones-esque custom hot tub and a jumbo boathouse?

In the latest issue: an optimist’s guide to surviving every doomsday scenario imaginable. Plus, obsessed with Barbie (and other weird collections), a harrowing memoir about postpartum psychosis, the best places to eat in the burbs, and more. Still not receiving Toronto Life at home? Subscribe today.