171 Howland Avenue

The Details

Welcome to 171 Howland Avenue, an extraordinary offering in the heart of the highly sought-after Annex neighbourhood. Set on one of the most coveted streets in this marvelous pocket of the city, Howland Avenue is revered for beautiful Victorian architecture, wide set backs and a mature tree canopy. 

An undisputed beauty who refuses to be ignored, this home has been flaunting her Victorian charm for well over a century. Admired as one of the prettiest properties on Howland Avenue, this picture-perfect, historic home features incredibly well-preserved Queen Anne revival details, including half-coved shingles, an arched entrance portico and lacy millwork dotting the second storey roof line. Having undergone a back-to-the-studs renovation and comprising reimagined space throughout, this home is perfectly turn-key and ready for a new family to simply move in and enjoy. 

A gracious front porch warmly invites you inside, where you are met by a foyer that serves as a convenient mudroom (an indispensable luxury for any busy family), with built-in shelves and hooks. Step inside to find a striking interior featuring the perfect blend of modern architectural details and old-world Victorian charm. There is an undeniable airiness about the open-concept design that is equally grounded in historical context. Soaring ceilings, a stained-glass arched window, and a handsome Victorian fireplace are offset by a contemporary staircase, beautiful modern kitchen, and newly-laid light wood flooring.  

The roomy main floor features an open-concept living room and dining room – perfect for entertaining family and friends. Exposed brick and large windows wrap the rooms in texture and light. To the rear of the main floor, step down into a dreamy kitchen which is perfectly appointed for cooking. A breakfast dining area completes the space and is a lovely spot to start the day with coffee. 

Skylights and windows have been purposefully placed throughout the three-storey stairwell to send light cascading down and throughout each level. Even on the darkest of winter days, this home will beam with natural light. Each floor holds an exciting array of exceptional living space. First, is an office with vaulted ceilings, and floor to ceiling bookshelves featuring a cool-as-can-be rolling ladder. An electric fireplace and tv set the mood for this comfortable space which currently serves as a sanctuary. This room was once a nursery and could easily transition back to a bedroom. For privacy, slide the pocket door closed and shut yourself off from the world. A two-piece bathroom and large built-in closet are convenient and practical for both the main and second floor. 

Next, is a fabulous bedroom with two large windows, a double built-in closet, and a reading nook with built-in shelves and drawers – perfect for kids, teens or kids-at-heart. A spacious five-piece bathroom is well positioned for the second and third bedrooms. 

Reaching the third floor, you will have arrived at your very own urban oasis. The primary suite is spa-like and serene. Enjoy a king-sized bedroom with built-in closets, a window seat, room for a desk and a walkout to a private deck. At the foot of the stairs lies a dressing room with an abundance of storage for the clothing and shoe collector in the family. A beautiful bathroom with a double vanity and a large walk-in shower perfectly completes the space. 

The lower level offers a finished recreation room, laundry, a wine closet and a massive crawl space for storing anything and everything. 

Perhaps the best-kept surprise is the incredible backyard oasis which spans nearly180 feet to the rear property line. A pool with a cabana? A garden suite with a gym and an office? An outdoor dining pavilion? The options to reinvent this outdoor space are truly infinite.

Enjoy the incredible walkability of this location with Dupont Street, Bathurst Street, and Bloor Street within a short distance on foot. Indulge in the magnificent array of shops and restaurants as you take in the sights and sounds of this very special and historic neighbourhood. A five minute walk to Summerhill Market, Napoli Centrale, Fat Pasha and El Pocho and a block from the beloved Sibelius Park – there is truly no shortage of ways to explore this spectacular part of the world.