Resplendently remodelled

Once upon a time, a one-and-a-half storey home was built in 1927 on a choice 50-by-120-foot lot at 1493 Wellington Cres.

Then, some 85 years later, in 2012, its owner decided to give the home a dramatic facelift both outside and in.

“Its unique Arts and Crafts-inspired design begins with a gorgeous wood and stone exterior that catches your attention the instant you see it — it doesn’t look like it’s 85 years old,” says Scott Moore of Century 21 Bachman & Associates (the Moore Group). “That’s just the start. When you step inside you can hardly believe what you see.”

What you see, it turns out, is a stunning entryway.

Essentially, it’s a scene rarely encountered in River Heights classics: a double-high ceiling soaring majestically over a grand staircase.

“When the renovations were undertaken, the home was turned into a genuine two-storey home,” he notes. “And while the staircase looks original, it’s not. It was crafted from repurposed River Heights elm trees by a local wood artist.”

There’s more to the story, Moore says.

“Take all the amazing stained glass piano windows on the wall beside the staircase — their trim came from oak beams that were taken from the old Eaton’s building downtown. The trim looks incredible. Then there’s the artwork on the wall by the stairs, which is the work of the owner, who’s an accomplished artist.”

Ascend the stunning, handcrafted staircase to the home’s upper level — it features the same pride of craftsmanship that’s exhibited in all early 20th-century River Heights classics — and you find another very pleasant surprise.

“If you’ve ever wanted a totally private primary bedroom, you get it here — it takes up the entire second floor,” Moore says. “It’s an amazing space.”

No hyperbole there. Step into the huge bedroom and you realize this is not an area designed in 1927.

For starters, there’s a vaulted, 10-foot-high ceiling. Next comes the design of the bedroom itself.

“It’s basically a combination bedroom/great room,” Moore says, noting the bedroom checks in at an impressive 750 sq. ft. “There’s a separate bedroom area which opens onto an open-concept area. It starts off with a huge, jetted soaker tub set in a Tyndall stone surround next to a huge oak-trimmed window.”

From there, it transitions into a media area with patio door that leads out to a spacious balcony that overlooks the backyard.

“A huge oak tree next to it provides a natural canopy for sun protection in the summer,” says Moore. “And if you wanted to, you could spend the entire day up here relaxing.”

Head back downstairs, and you’re enveloped by rich woodwork that creates a warm, character-filled ambience.

At the same time, the main floor is filled with a collection of special spaces, starting with a wonderfully inviting living room.

“With all its woodwork — the oak hardwoods, oak-trimmed windows and a wide doorway with French doors and more gorgeous oak trim, it’s a cosy, inviting space that’s set off perfectly by a wood-burning fireplace with a gorgeous brick surround,” says Moore. “The doorway then takes you into the dining/kitchen area.”

As it turns out, it’s an area offering a delightful mix of traditional character and modern functionality.

“A wall was removed to open the dining area onto the kitchen,” Moore says. “It offers maple cabinets, granite countertops, an island and plenty of room to create and entertain.”

The main floor — which also holds a den, two bedrooms and an opulent main bath — is then completed by another special space to the rear of the kitchen: an enclosed three-season deck.

“Again, the woodwork is incredible,” says Moore. “Patio doors on the side lead out to a peaceful, architecturally designed, Japanese-influenced backyard with Koi pond. The lower level is fully finished, and offers a rec room, bedroom, two-piece bath, laundry area and lots of storage. There’s also a high-efficient furnace, central air — and 220-amp panel with no knob-and-tube wiring.”

Moore says the thoughtfully remodelled home is special from start to finish.

“It’s a true Arts and Crafts gem that was put together the right way in every area. Its style, character and location are second to none, making it a great place to call home.”

lewys@mymts.net