Location, location, location

Few neighbourhoods in Winnipeg capture people’s imaginations the way Wolseley does.

With its delightfully diverse home designs, scores of mature trees and a high walkability score — not to mention all the cool little shops and businesses in the area — it’s a treat to live in, with its timeless beauty and central location.

However, if there’s one thing that gives prospective homebuyers pause about buying in the area, it’s the fact that many Wolseley Classics — homes that were built in the early 1900s — are dated. Which means that if you purchase a home in that storied part of the city, you might have to update one or more key areas.

There’s also the fact that some of the 100-plus-year-old homes come with quirky floor plans that tend to make for choppy, dark interiors.

In short, if you buy a home in Wolseley, you may need to be prepared to undertake some renovations and embrace the quirks of a home with yesteryear’s charms.

But that certainly isn’t the case with every house in Wolseley.

And the 1,426 sq. ft., two-storey home at 535 Camden Place definitely breaks that mold, says Cole Castelane of Century 21 Bachman & Associates.

“This home has been completely renovated and thoughtfully designed for today’s lifestyle. While it has a traditional exterior, it’s interior has been redone and reconfigured to today’s standards.”

The first thing that stands out about the home’s interior is just how bright it is.

Walls are a neutral off-white shade and the new wide-plank flooring is a natural blondish colour — they work together to create a bright, inviting interior.

Pot lights in the living room and kitchen add lighting options and create even illumination that eliminates shadows. No dark, foreboding corners here.

At the same time, each space — and this isn’t always the case in century-plus-old homes — is a generous size, with smooth flow from room to room.

“I love how the foyer flows so naturally into the living room through a wide door to the right,” notes Brett Castelane, who’s marketing the home with his father, Cole. “Not only that, but the living room is a good size with a huge window that lets in lots of natural light and views of the mature trees in front of and around the home.”

He adds that the living room comes with thoroughly modern design touches.

“It also features a linear electric fireplace with taupe tile surround that really makes it stand out. It adds a modern touch to all the character that surrounds you, such as the high baseboards and doorways with their beautiful trim.”

A double-wide doorway on the living room’s rear wall provides seamless access to the kitchen, which is a sight to behold.

“I think it’s fair to say you don’t always find kitchens like this in homes in this area,” says Brett. “It was redesigned to make it larger and more functional. The result is a bright, eat-in kitchen with a compact island that seats two, two-tone white and brown thermofoil cabinets, quartz countertops, a tile backsplash and new stainless appliances.”

And the modern touches don’t end there.

“The main floor also comes with a separate dining room, plus a convenient powder room, which is a rare find in character homes. Not only that, but when you step out the back door, you step out onto a new wraparound deck that’s perfect for barbecuing or relaxing on.”

Head upstairs via the classic, newly carpeted staircase and you’ll find even more great spaces.

“There are three good-sized bedrooms, including two bedrooms that could be used as the primary bedroom, they’re so spacious,” says Brett.

“The main bath has also been beautifully remodelled with a new vanity, tub with tile surround and marble-style vinyl floor.”

The lower level also has much to offer.

“It’s a blank canvas and is ready for a rec room, home gym or studio — the possibilities are endless,” adds Cole. “And you also can’t beat this home’s location. You’re close to schools, parks, restaurants and a host of urban conveniences. This is a turnkey home that gives young families an affordable entry point into one of Winnipeg’s most desirable neighbourhoods.”

lewys@mymts.net