Morse

Ouroboros Deconstruction was brought in by People Design Co-op to support the rehabilitation of three historic land trust properties at 124–126 and 128.5 Morse Street in Toronto’s east end. Owned by Circle Community LandTrust, the buildings had fallen into significant disrepair and required careful stabilization before interior deconstruction could begin.

At 124 and 126, we removed deteriorated rear additions while preserving the original structures. Extra bracing and sequencing allowed us to safely recover interior materials without compromising the remaining fabric.

Original trim, doors, and Douglas fir framing lumber were carefully dismantled and prepared for reuse within the renovations. Beneath layers of drywall, a pressed tin ceiling was uncovered and salvaged — a concealed architectural element returned to circulation rather than lost to landfill.

With Toronto Masonry Restoration fully rebuilding the exterior envelopes, this project demonstrates a collaborative restoration model in which architects, masonry specialists, and deconstruction work together to preserve material value. The result is a reinvestment in both heritage and community, ensuring that original materials remain embedded in the next life of these homes.