About the Neighbourhood

Considered to be one of the best street markets in North America, the Kensington Market area is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, many of which are lined with brightly coloured Victorian houses that date back the late 1800s. Today the neighbourhood is one of Toronto’s most diverse, with a very welcoming vibe and some significant and historically designated architecture.

The rich multicultural mix is obvious in the shops packed with goods from Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East, South America and Asia. A visit to Kensington Market is like a sensory trip around the world and many of the city’s top and most innovative chefs come here to shop. It’s also a treasure trove of vintage clothing shops tucked in among eclectic restaurants and cafes. On busy days, the market is every bit as lively as street markets around the world: a symphony of sounds, and stalls laden with produce, exotic spices and sweet treats. The walkability of the neighbourhood is exceptional and there’s practically no need for a vehicle at all, with easy access to the lake to the south, the financial district and hospitals on University to the east, Bloor-Yorkville to the north and Trinity Bellwoods Park and College Street to the west.

About the Home

Scottish architect Robert Grant of Grant and Dick Architects designed the home and it was built by Archibald Grant in the late 1800s, with the verandah added in 1911. The home has been spectacularly re-envisioned by the current owners who restored the plaster walls, original 14” baseboards, crown moldings, and solid oak floors in 2010.  There are breathtaking 12.5’ ceilings on the main floor and 10’ ceilings on the second the third floors. The home’s style is that of a semi detached house, however only the front portion of the house is attached, which provides light on both sides. The current owner fully soundproofed the shared wall allowing complete privacy and comfort when entertaining or watching a movie in the third floor family room. A Portrait cast iron fireplace insert was imported from England with the original vintage Victorian design re-created to look like coal. The fireplace mantel is original as are many of the light fixtures, including some sconces and the foyer’s chandelier. A chef’s kitchen features a rare AGA Legacy pro-style, dual-fuel 5-burner, 3-oven range with convection. The Sub-Zero fridge and other European appliances provide endless cooking and entertaining capabilities.  Statuario Cararra marble with a vintage finish surrounds the kitchen. A bright south-facing family room addition off the kitchen with multiple Marvin all wood double slung windows provides a beautiful view of the established low-maintenance perennial garden. The garden has its own dining area, herb garden and a cabana for relaxing.

The home has a very generous principal suite with a two piece ensuite and the large wet room on the second floor has tumbled marble tile floors, floor-to-ceiling glass shower and a new Victoria + Albert ground stone tub as featured in W Hotels.  A custom staircase to match the home’s original leads to the third level where there are spectacular loft-like windows that provide dramatic views of the CN tower and Toronto skyline.  A third floor west-facing deck provides breathtaking views of the sunset.

Don’t miss this beautifully and thoughtfully updated home in the heart of Toronto.