Sizzle And Spice In Bloordale Village

Purchasing the right space in Toronto invites you to live the urban life – your way. And when it’s located within a revitalizing neighbourhood that’s gathering momentum, a modern dwelling becomes its own financial opportunity down the road. This is precisely the case with the recently-renovated property just steps from Bloor and Lansdowne in thriving Bloordale Village. Not only is this a unique opportunity to purchase a substantial renovation in one of the City’s premium gentrifying neighbourhoods, but you’ll subsequently be riding the wave of change that ensures continued desirability and financial reward. For the busy professional who doesn’t want to get mired in significant renovations or repairs, here’s your chance to see what it’s all about with this sweet semi!

Welcome to 303 St. Helens Avenue!

There is something uniquely energizing when you are able to not only watch, but also participate, in change. In housing terms, this aptly describes the opportunity to live the experience of a neighbourhood gentrifying around you. At ‘The Junction’ of hip and cool – just west of the Lansdowne Subway station where this stylish rowhouse is located – you could have your finger on the pulse of a ‘hood becoming one of Toronto’s most-desired hotspots!

This area has always been in a state of flux – sometimes in its favour, and sometimes not. However, the past decade has seen a revolution of gentrification in the area, and it is still gaining momentum as we speak. Formally considered an industrial hub, you can still see the remnants of this in this area’s architectural history and housing stock – a nod to where this neighbourhood has been, and where it is still going. Much of the industrial core has been replaced by lofts and townhomes that reflect the industrial grit, albeit with their edges softened with style. There is an underlying vibe about the value of hard work, creativity, and the subsequent rewards, made more prominent by the prevalence of entrepreneurial spirit – both from the area retailers and the area residents.

So, what does life look like when you live on the cutting edge of cool? Abounding amenities, for one thing. You rarely realize the true value of convenience until it has become an essential part of your lifestyle; then you wonder how you ever managed without it! And what’s more convenient than having an assortment of cool and necessary amenities at your doorstep?

Out of laundry detergent or a full-bodied Cab Sav? Not to worry, both Loblaws and the LCBO are within a 10-minute walk from your front door.

Your social life and your palate will benefit from this location on Bloor Street West, with so many cool proprietors and retailers in your radius. You can count two of our favourites among your neighbours: The Whippoorwill Tavern and The Emerson. Both are a casual stroll away, and are hubs where you can expect to meet folks of similar interest – those who recognize the considerable upside of being on the frontline of a neighbourhood that is swiftly and determinedly gentrifying. Love art? This is the hottest ‘hood for emerging art galleries which are the vanguard of change.

Who doesn’t love an afternoon curled up with a book? How about an afternoon curled up with hundreds of books? The Bloor Gladstone Library Branch and the Perth Dupont Library branch are about a 15-minute walk in either direction. Maybe you’d like to do a little shopping indoors when the weather turns? The Dufferin Mall is also a 15-minute walk away. And a little bit further down the street is the wide open green spaces and outdoor recreation afforded by Dufferin Grove Park, which is also host to a fruitful farmer’s market. The park boasts an ice rink, a basketball court, picnic area, playground, wading pools, and even a community oven!

And to complete the trifecta for location, location, location? Quick access to public transport, of course! Landsdowne Subway Station and the Bloor Go Train Stations are about a four minute walk away, including getting lickety split to the airpor on the Union Pearson Express! Not to mention there is a car sharing location at Lansdowne subway, or half a block to the west, at 1369 Bloor Street West!

This solid, spacious 3-bedroom residence was transformed into a modern wonder over the past 4 years. One of the Sellers works with sustainable woods and finishes to create original functional furnishings and wood products for the home. Her creativity and steady hand can be seen throughout this stylish dwell. And for those focused on the practical, you’ll appreciate his expertise renovating the house, including the all-new wiring and panel, new Pex plumbing from the stack up and Roxul sound and fire-proof insulation under the 90% new drywall. Plus this home features many new windows and doors, and a new roof and gables installed in October 2015!

As you enter the home, you’re immediately struck by the charming fusion of original fixtures and contemporary clean lines. I love the original stair banister and vintage clawfoot tub, contrasted with the marmoleum flooring. The main level has been reconfigured to keep the space plan open yet defined by zone, mixing on trend details that complement the history of the house. For example, I love the use of the original wood lath to cover the kitchen peninsula on the dining room side. With the simple colour palette – white, gray and natural wood – the fusion of old and new is understated and integrated, giving the spaces a strong sense of character. Well-proportioned, this main level is great for entertaining, and has a full upgraded bath.

On the upper level, a spacious landing connects to three bedrooms and a generous vintage bath with a soupcon of charm including the custom lighting. Retaining the original plank floors, these adorable private zones for domestic bliss have loads of light and sound-proofing drywall! I love how the owners installed built-in wardrobes in two of the bedrooms. Want to combine these two spaces? The closets are back-to-back and can be easily removed to create a larger master sanctuary if you wish! Furthermore, the smaller bedroom with the chalkboard wall retains the plumbing in the walls should you wish to add a sink for use as an art studio or baby changing centre.

The lower level is partially finished with an optional home office or bedroom. Otherwise it’s open and ready to tailor to suit! In the interim, take a look at all the mechanicals, plumbing and wiring so you can appreciate how recent they were installed.

Outside, the front and rear yard have been landscaped. There’s a floating deck which can be moved as you like (the barbecue is included!), but note with it positioned abutting the rear brick courtyard wall it throws off the heat at night making for great outdoor dining. How amazing is that?

Could this dwell with contemporary flair be the next home for you?

Wanna know more? Contact steve@urbaneer.com for more information.

Want to learn more about this neighbourhood? Check out our Junction / High Park / Bloor West / Swansea including our flavour videos, the city census data on the areas, plus several past blogs on area amenities! Or view our other Neighbourhood Pages! We love Toronto’s diversity!