Curb Appeal Toronto West - ISSUE 04 • 2024

Tanya Sidorova Sales Representative Michael Inwood Broker of Record, B.Comm

toronto west, high park, roncesvalles village, parkdale, bloor west village, junction

$1,899,000

$2,199,000

$3,999,000 swansea

204 High Park Avenue

‘The James T. Jackson House’... Circa 1891 3-Storey Queen Anne Revival, Bespoke Victorian Design by Recognized Toronto Architect James Augustus Ellis. Approx 6,000Sq.ft on 4 Floors, 8 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, Grand Principal Rooms, Massive 3 Storey Turret, Aesthetic Sandstone & Brick, Stunning Slate Roof, Impressive Oak Staircase with Intricately Carved Newels, 10.5’ Ceilings on The Main with Plaster of Paris Arches, Rosettes & Crown, Original Oak Door Casings & Baseboard, Wainscot, Hardwood Floors, Stained Glass. Mechanically Sound, Perched on an Oversize 60’ x 130’ lot with Dual Driveways & Attached Garage. Truly One of a Kind!!!

HIGH PARK

61 DELMA DRIVE

Impressive Alderwood 2 Storey Custom Re-Build on a Premium 45’ x 110’ Corner Lot. Complete 2012 Reno w/Open Concept Main, 4 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, 2,300sq.ft Above Grade, Oversize Living & Dining Room, Tastefully Renovated Kitchen w/Shaker Cabinetry, Quartz Counters & Stainless Appliances, 2016 Family Room Addition Features Multiple Walk-outs, Gas Fireplace & Crested Mansard Roof, Primary w/5pc Ensuite & Large Walk-in Closet. Hardwood Floors, Modern Bathrooms, Finished Basement. Back-Yard Botanists Rejoice! Exceptional Low Maintenance Landscaping w/Rare Succulents/Annuals; Oasis Primed for Entertaining!

alderwood

133 BERESFORD AVENUE

Renovated Swansea Gem! Traditional 2 Storey Detached on a Manicured 25’ x 94.5’ Lot, Wonderful Marriage of Modern Convenience & Original Period Charm, Open Concept Main w/Hardwood Floors, Brick Fireplace, Stained Glass, Renovated Cook’s Kitchen w/Quartz Counters & SS Appliances, 3 Generous Bedrooms, Primary w/Bay Window & Ample Closets, Spa-Like Bathroom, Spectacular Basement Reno w/High Ceilings & Heated Flooring. Swansea PS Catchment, Steps to BWV Shopping & Entertainment. Tremendous Turn Key Family Home!

For more than 7 years, Nutan has been a generous supporter of our team and a great and enthusiastic voice of encouragement for our players, some of whom she has supported since they were 9 years old! Her total professionalism is matched only by her deep roots in, and real commitment to, building our community.

BROWNIES Healthy

YOUR KIDS CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF

A GREAT WAY TO GET YOUR CHILDREN TO EAT BETTER IS BY SNEAKING NUTRITIOUS FOODS INTO CLASSIC FAVOURITES. FOR EXAMPLE, AVOCADOS ARE HIGH IN GOOD FATS AND HAVE A CREAMY, VELVETY TEXTURE THAT MAKES THEM THE PERFECT INGREDIENT TO TAKE YOUR BAKED GOODS TO THE NEXT LEVEL.

Avocados can replace butter, eggs and — in this recipe — shortening. As delicious as it is original, kids and adults alike will love the softness that the avocados bring to this chocolate cake, as well as the delightful crunch of the pistachios.

AVOCADO + PISTACHIO BROWNIES

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Serves: 12

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE BROWNIE

• 125 mL (1/2 cup) melted butter

• 310 mL (1 1/4 cup) sugar

• 125 mL (1/2 cup) cocoa powder

• 2 eggs

• 1 avocado from Mexico, puréed

• 5 mL (1 tsp) vanilla extract

• 125 mL (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour

• 125 mL (1/2 cup) toasted and crushed pistachios (for garnish)

• Sea salt, to taste (for garnish)

FOR THE CHOCOLATE ICING

• 1 avocado, puréed

• 250 mL (1 cup) icing sugar

• 180 mL (3/4 cup) cocoa powder

• 5 mL (1 tsp) vanilla extract

• 15 mL (1 tbsp) boiling water

DIRECTIONS

STEP ONE: Preheat oven to 170 °C (325 °F). Butter and line an 8” square pan.

STEP TWO: Mix sugar, cocoa powder and melted butter in a bowl until smooth. Add remaining brownie ingredients.

STEP THREE: Pour mixture into pan and bake for about 25 minutes. Set aside.

STEP FOUR: For the icing, mix puréed avocado with icing sugar, cocoa powder and vanilla extract in a bowl. Add boiling water and mix until smooth.

STEP FIVE: Ice brownies and garnish with pistachios and sea salt.

newscanada.com

46 Kings Lynn Road

One of the Kingsway’s finest! 5500 sq.ft. of luxurious living space sitting on premium 50’ x 140’ west facing lot on one of our most sought after streets. Every room perfectly proportioned. Timeless finishes, high ceilings, kitchen and family room all will love. 5+ bedrooms, primary with luxury ensuite, dressing room and balcony, fully finished lower level with spacious recreation/games room, gym and teen/nanny suite. Walk to best schools, grenview entrance to Royal York subway, dining, shops. www.46KingsLynn.com

45 Strath Avenue

Coach house love! This absolutely stunning custom home, by renowned builder Gallery Homes, 2 blocks to Grenview entrance of Royal York subway in the heart of the Kingsway. It’s an obvious choice and true class with unparalleled fine craftsmanship and attention to every detail. The interior is completely new and re-built to the brick walls. High ceilings, radiant heated floors throughout, wall panelling, best appliances, inground pool, outdoor kitchen, turn-key and full-out luxury. The spectacular coach house adds a whole dimension of luxury play/living space complete with bedroom and bath. Perhaps for in-laws? This is a wonderful location in a happy neighbourhood, walking distance to schools and Bloor St. strip with shops, delis, dining and pubs. www.45Strath.com

Over

79 Prince Edward Drive S

This is the Queen Bee of west Toronto towns and is a must see if you are looking for grand luxurious space combined with easy living! Glamorous 2400 sq. ft. end unit with lots of amazing features including a rare main floor powder room, 2nd floor library with rich cherrywood panelling & built-ins and a big eat-in kitchen opening to a sunny and secluded east-facing terrace. Big, beautiful windows with pretty views. A small complex situated in friendly Sunnylea with great schools, Kingsway shops, bus at doorstep and cycling paths that take you to the lake and beyond. This is a good-feeling home! www.79PrinceEdward.com

WELCOME TO 89 RIVERVIEW GARDENS

Step into the epitome of modern elegance with this absolutely spectacular renovation nestled on a serene cul-de-sac in the coveted Old Mill neighbourhood. Offering breathtaking vistas of the tranquil Humber River, this residence exudes sophistication and charm at every turn.

As you enter, be greeted by the bright and inviting open-concept living space, adorned with new hardwood floors, illuminating pot lights, and a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for gathering with loved ones or unwinding after a long day. Prepare to be amazed by the new custom kitchen, where form meets function effortlessly. Quartz countertops, a sleek backsplash, and a large central island with a family-size breakfast bar create an inspiring culinary haven. Custom cabinets offer ample storage, while stainless steel appliances elevate the space to new heights. Adjacent to the kitchen, a charming breakfast/sitting room beckons, leading to absolute tranquility and paradise on the expansive new decks and fully fenced perennial garden.

Upstairs, discover a warm and welcoming second level! Boasting three

For more photos & details, visit www.sidorovainwood.com Old Mill | 3

spacious bedrooms and a large office overlooking the lush garden. Hardwood floors throughout and custom closets add a touch of luxury, while the new gorgeous “spa-like” bath with a separate glass shower promises a rejuvenating retreat.

Descend into the professionally renovated and lowered basement, where over 7-foot-high ceilings create an airy ambiance. Revel in the cozy family room, complete with a gas fireplace, pot lights, and a large window offering glimpses of the outdoors. A convenient 3-piece bath, additional bedroom, and laundry room complete this lower level, offering versatility and comfort for every lifestyle.

With a private drive and newer garage, every convenience has been thoughtfully considered in this remarkable residence. From its stunning aesthetics to its functional design, this home offers an unparalleled living experience in one of Toronto’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Schedule your private tour today and make this breathtaking home yours!

Investing

IN THE RIGHT

RENOVATIONS

By Shaunn Lipsey | Photography

By Mike Chajeck

SHAUNN LIPSEY serves as the Principal and Creative Director for Shaunn Lipsey + Co, a Toronto-based design and build team. Renowned for crafting bespoke interiors that enhance both value, style and function,. Servicing Ontario, Montreal, Florida, and California.

@shaunnlipseyco • www.shaunnlipsey.com

Not every upgrade is a good investment and not all renovations are created equal. Before digging in, I ask my clients what their overall goal for the project is, whether it is to increase their enjoyment of the home, or to boost its property value on the resale market. As mentioned, not all renovations yield good returns, but in my experience as a designer, these are the ones that generally pay off big.

One of the key areas that consistently gives good ROI for both function and property value is the kitchen. Often considered the heart of a home, a well-designed kitchen can make a powerful statement. Homebuyers value open, spacious kitchens equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and ample storage. Renovations that introduce an open floor plan, allowing seamless integration of the kitchen with the dining and living spaces, are highly sought after.

Much like kitchens, bathrooms are another high-impact space when it comes to property value. Upgrading bathrooms to spa-like retreats is a trend that has gained momentum in recent years.

Features such as walk-in curb free showers, freestanding tubs and dual sinks are not just practical for multiple users, but also luxurious. Thoughtful use of high-quality materials, such as marble or quartz countertops, can further enhance the aesthetic appeal and contribute to a lasting impression and a space with style longevity.

Spa-inspired upgrades today are aligned with the broader move toward self-indulgence and quality “me time,” elevating not just the enjoyment and overall aesthetic appeal of a home, but adding significant value as well. Features such as high-end fixtures, custom multi functional vanities with stone countertops and spa-like amenities contribute to a sense of opulence and

sophistication. Who wouldn’t want heated floors with built in shower benches, oversized soaker tubs, integrated sound systems and aromatherapy/chromotherapy built right in? In my experience, an investment in a luxury spa like bathroom is money well spent.

While not as sexy outright, storage is arguably one of the top upgrades you can make. After all, a little “extra space” is always in style. Space is a universal concern for homeowners, making built-in storage solutions a valuable addition to any renovation project. Customized closets, built-in bookshelves, and strategically placed cabinets can optimize space while maintaining a clean and organized look. Residents and potential buyers alike will appreciate the convenience of ample storage, and this practical enhancement can significantly boost the perceived value of a property.

Aesthetics are crucial, but behind the scenes, energy efficiency is a growing priority for both homeowners and environmentally conscious buyers. Energy-efficient renovations not only

reduce utility costs but they also position a property as environmentally responsible. Upgrading windows, doors and insulation, as well as incorporating energy-efficient lighting and smart appliances, can be a wise upgrade the aligns with the growing move toward environmental consciousness. And speaking of trends, the importance of a well-designed home office has become increasingly important since the onset of the pandemic and in its wake. With remote work evolving from temporary trend to permanent lifestyle for many, a dedicated and aesthetically pleasing home office is a valuable addition to the home. Thoughtful design, proper lighting, and integrated technology can transform a room into a productive and inspiring workspace that helps create – and maintain – a good work-life balance.

Choosing the right renovation goes beyond mere aesthetic appeal. It involves a thoughtful consideration of your lifestyle, long-term needs and the potential impact on property value. The right renovation with the right designer can transform living spaces into functional and harmonious environments, enhancing your day-to-day experiences and improving overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to create a sanctuary tailored to your taste or preparing for a potential resale, the right renovation ensures a wise investment that will be worth every penny, when it’s all said and done. ◆

WHILE NOT AS SEXY OUTRIGHT, STORAGE IS ARGUABLY ONE OF THE TOP UPGRADES YOU CAN MAKE AFTER ALL, A LITTLE “EXTRA SPACE” IS ALWAYS IN STYLE.

Welcome to 8 Country Club Drive, Toronto

Welcome to 8 Country Club Drive, an exquisite custom-built, 6+1 bedroom, centre hall residence in an exclusive enclave near the St. George’s Golf and Country Club. Timeless design, luxurious finishes, generously proportioned rooms, and the highest quality workmanship are the hallmarks of this elegant home with a total of 8,230 square feet on three levels.

The spacious and gracious main level beckons with a host of exceptional features including ceiling heights ranging from 9’ to 9.5’, finished on-site oak floors, and an abundance of natural light creating a bright and airy ambiance throughout. The main entry is highlighted by an impressive, two-storey skylit foyer. The elegant sunken living room has a gas fireplace, beautiful windows and great flow for family living and entertaining. A grand formal dining room with built-in cabinetry, crown moldings, bay window with french doors is perfect for hosting formal gatherings and dinner parties. The gourmet kitchen that accommodates a large table for informal dining, is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances from Sub-Zero, Miele, Thermador, Panasonic and is complemented by granite counters and a centre island. It seamlessly blends functionality with style and includes a walkout to a 27’ x16’ terrace - ideal for al fresco dining. There is a large main floor office/den/bedroom with double closets, 2 piece ensuite and large windows facing south. The exceptionally spacious family room with a gas fireplace and 9.5’ ceiling height has gorgeous, bay window views of the backyard. A convenient powder room is also located on this level as is a well-designed laundry room that is equipped with Miele washer, dryer and custom built-in cabinetry.

On the second level, the regal primary suite that overlooks the garden offers a fireplace, dressing room and a lavish new skylit Marana built bathroom with a walk-in glass enclosed steam shower, heated porcelain tile floor and a double sink vanity with quartz counter. Four large well appointed bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and skylights complete this level.

The fabulous lower level features a walkout at grade to the backyard, a spacious recreation room with an entertainment unit, gas fireplace and adjoining games area. A well equipped lounge with bar includes a built-in KitchenAid oven, Bosch dishwasher and SubZero bar fridge. There is also a bedroom with an ensuite four piece bath; generous storage; a powder room, and access to the attached triple-car garage. The wide triple driveway accommodates multiple cars.

The house transitions seamlessly to the spectacular backyard - a serene, private haven on a phenomenal 70’ x 316’ lot, sheltered by shade trees and enhanced by well established shrubs and perennials. This bucolic, park-like ambiance is the ultimate setting for memorable summer gatherings and peaceful relaxation.

Though secluded and quiet, 8 Country Club Drive is located close to the Humber River parklands, Humbertown shopping, Royal York Subway, Kingsway restaurants and boutiques, four private golf clubs as well as excellent neighborhood schools. Pearson International Airport, Billy Bishop and downtown Toronto are minutes away.

This rare offering of a luxurious, move-in ready residence in Lincoln Wood awaits the discriminating buyer.

THEODOR BABIAK**

647.717.0

THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME Raise

When it comes to home renovations, the money that you put in cannot always be recouped when it comes time to sell. Most people want to get the best value for their dollar when doing home renovations and there are some important things to keep in mind. Before you decide on a remodel, consider the cost versus the value, and decide if the remodel you want to do is a worthy investment. Ultimately, you want to improve your home and then when it comes time to sell, you can command a higher price. The following remodel ideas may help you add some value to your home.

1 / INCREASE LIGHT AND SPACE

Dark, cramped rooms are no good when it comes to real estate. One thing that homeowners can do to increase the appeal of their property is open up the house to create more of a flow and enhance natural light. Consider knocking down some walls to brighten up a space. An open floor plan will also make a home feel much larger and is better for entertaining. Perhaps you’ve wanted to do this for years, but worried about the cost. It’s time to answer the question, how much does it cost to knock down a wall?

2 / LANDSCAPE & CURB APPEAL

The curb appeal of your home is incredibly important when it comes time to sell. The first impression of a home that someone will have is from the look of the exterior. It is said that a good first impression of a home can add five percent to its value. Make sure your exterior paint and details are up to par. The driveway should be paved properly, and any lawn space should be properly maintained. Consider drought tolerant plants if you are not great at gardening. If you have a deck, add some nice furniture, or create a colourful garden in some extra space.

3 / CREATE A HOME OFFICE

With more companies giving employees the option to telecommute, a home office can really add some value to a home. If you have some extra space in your home, consider converting it into a home office. Make sure there is plenty of work space, and remember to have grounded outlets installed as well as data ports and possibly an extra phone line.

4 / CONSIDER ADDING A DECK

It has been determined that when you spend the money to add a deck onto your home, you will likely be able to recoup more than eighty percent of its cost at sale time. If you choose to install a deck, take some time to plan it out and come up with unique features such as built in benches or a fire pit if your city or town allows them. Use higher grade materials to increase the life of the deck.

5 / FINISH YOUR BASEMENT

If you don’t have enough space to add a room to your home, consider finishing your basement. A basement space can easily be turned into a playroom for the kids, a bar, or media room, relatively easily. Consider adding a bathroom if you do remodel the basement, as this can increase the value of the remodel even more. Try to keep the space as open as possible so it does not feel dark and cramped.

6 / UPDATE OR ADD BATHROOMS

Bathrooms are an important part of a home. If there are not enough bathrooms or if they are very outdated,

it will be a big turn off to potential buyers. Updating bathroom amenities and fixtures or adding an additional bathroom if you have the space can really increase a home’s sale appeal.

7 / UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN

Kitchen remodels can really add value to your home but it is also important to be careful. When planning a kitchen remodel it is really important to consider the cost of your materials versus the value. Based on the cost of your home, if you choose to install granite or marble counter tops, will you be able to recoup that money? Take a close look at costs when remodeling kitchens. Things such as updated appliances or a window over the sink can add a lot of appeal.

As long as you take the time to really plan accordingly, and don’t overspend, you can make some really nice upgrades to your home. ◆