HouseToronto (Canada)

Walking into this extraordinary contemporary Annex residence, with nods to the historic past, you have an immediate sense of calm and well being. Organic shapes soften every room. Integrated planters throughout (ingeniously designed with both irrigation and drainage), including the living green wall along the staircase, provide fresh oxygen and bring nature indoors year-round. This masterpiece of a home was completed in 2022 by award-winning Suulin Architects and is unapologetically modern, quietly blending into the century old streetscape of tree lined Walmer Road. The use of bronze, copper, natural stones and white oak are integrated to age in place over time, with their natural patina being the artwork. Enter the living room and you’ll admire the spectacular demi-lune shape of the curtain wall of windows. This form echoes the original shape of what was once the open front porch. Perhaps you instantly noticed the artisan one-of-a-kind doors that close the front foyer from the kitchen in order to guide guests into the open concept living / dining room, or the custom bronze doors to the quaint office looking onto the Magnolia tree. The family gathering place is the culinary heart of the home with Scavolini cabinetry and top drawer Gaggenau and Miele appliances. The kitchen, with its enormous centre island in Emerald quartzite, opens into the breakfast area and family room extending to the outdoor terrace accessed through massive German engineered sliding doors, overlooking the pool and coach house in the back garden. The 605 square foot coach house makes for a dream home office or yoga studio (there’s also a hidden murphy bed as every guest will want to stay there). On the note of offices, serious work and contemplation occur in the 2nd floor home office / homework centre with three workstations for children and adults alike to exercise their brain power. To the left is the home gym / wellness area with vaulted ceilings and spa (with both steam and infrared sauna). This space cleverly cantilevers over the side driveway with massive windows over the pool. The entire third floor is devoted to the primary bedroom suite. Chic and refined. Sleeping, lounge, dress, and bath are all integrated into discrete zones. Japanese influenced bathroom with steam shower. Downstairs offers a fully independent in-law (or nanny) suite. The wine cellar tasting room will make any wine collector’s heart leap. Exposed stone walls and custom bronze detailed glass doors; open your choice vintage with friends and family. This exquisite home (4,837 sq ft above grade + 2,432 sq ft below) is large, yet approachable and livable. Heated drive and walk. Elevator that services each level. Fully integrated home automation system and state of the art mechanical systems. Every element of this home has been carefully orchestrated to channel quiet luxury throughout.