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The Rosedale Manor
Built by textile magnate Harrison Caldwell, this Second Empire beauty survived two fires and a near-demolition in the '70s. We found her in 2019, weathered but dignified, and worked with the city to secure heritage status. The mansard roof alone tells a story - those dormer windows? Original leaded glass.
Architectural Notes
- Authentic Second Empire architecture with mansard roof
- Original hand-carved oak staircase restored 2021
- 12 fireplaces, 8 with original Victorian tiles
- Preserved servants' quarters converted to modern suite
Thornhill House
This Edwardian gem was home to one of Canada's first female physicians, Dr. Margaret Thomson. The examining room's still there, now a charming study. What gets me every time is the conservatory - all that original stained glass catching afternoon light. We've kept everything authentic while adding modern comforts where they make sense.
Architectural Notes
- Classic Edwardian symmetry with Queen Anne influences
- Original stained glass conservatory (1908)
- Period-appropriate electrical fixtures throughout
- Garden designed by Frederick Todd, restored 2020
Blackwood Castle
Yeah, locals actually call it a castle - and honestly, they're not wrong. Gothic Revival at its most dramatic. Built by a Scottish railway baron who clearly missed home. The stone was quarried on-site, which is wild. We spent three years on restoration, working with craftspeople who understood traditional masonry. Every pointed arch, every trefoil window - all preserved.
Architectural Notes
- Gothic Revival with Scottish Baronial elements
- Hand-cut limestone from original quarry
- Great Hall with 24-foot hammer beam ceiling
- Tower study with 360-degree estate views
Hartwell Colonial
Our oldest property, and she's teaching us something new every week. Georgian Colonial architecture before that style really took off here. We're in year two of restoration, and it's been humbling. Found the original kitchen hearth last month - massive thing. This one's for someone who wants to be part of the preservation journey, not just move into something finished.
Architectural Notes
- Pre-Confederation Georgian Colonial (rare in Ontario)
- Original hand-hewn timber frame structure
- Active restoration with archaeological oversight
- Documented in Heritage Canada archives
The Gatsby Residence
Art Deco doesn't get enough love in the heritage world, but this place changed my mind completely. Built during Toronto's jazz age boom, every detail screams 1920s elegance. The geometric patterns in the terrazzo floors, the chrome fixtures - all original. Previous owner was a bootlegger, or so the stories go. There's definitely a hidden compartment in the library we haven't figured out yet.
Architectural Notes
- Pure Art Deco styling - rare residential example
- Original terrazzo floors with geometric patterns
- Chrome and glass throughout (authenticated period)
- Rumored prohibition-era hidden features
