House of the week: 2 Brule Gardens

Sitting on arguably the best lot in Swansea, 2 Brule Gardens boasts nearly an acre of land, plenty of privacy, and some pretty enviable views from the banks of the Humber River. Despite the secluded setting, amenities are close at hand — Bloor West Village is only steps away and access to the Queensway, Lake Shore Blvd and the Martin Goodman Trail are just a straight shot south. The property is huge, so ridiculously huge, in fact, that the only way to get a clear photograph of it is from above. Fun game: try to pick out this big boy from the sky the next time you're flying into or out of the city.



The Tudor exterior (wrought iron gates, leaded glass windows, timber framing and all) is enough to fulfill any dreams of living in the English countryside. There are high-end renovations found throughout the house, but some original details have been retained. On the main floor, built-in bookcases, arched windowsills and coffered ceilings nod to the house's original look.

Yellow kitchen cabinets and hand-painted tile backsplash in the kitchen might not float your boat, but it's hard to deny the appeal of wood beams in a bedroom or a home office outfitted with a turret. Plus, you can always float a boat — or canoe, or dinghy — right in the Humber if you're so inclined thanks to direct trail access. Just don't swim in the river. That's pretty weird. Use the saltwater pool instead.

SPECS:

• Address: 2 Brule Gardens


• Price: $4,298,000 (price drop alert!)


• Sq Ft: 6,710, plus 1,560 in the basement


• Bedrooms: 6


• Storeys: 3


• Bathrooms: 7


• Parking Spaces: 6


• Taxes: $30,503 (2011)

NOTABLE FEATURES

• Saltwater pool with stone terrace


• Front yard fountain


• Chandelier that automatically lowers for cleaning


• Refinished oak and pine floors


• Multiple fireplaces

GOOD FOR

A large family looking for space, history and an enchanted forest setting within the city limits. This house suits a buyer who appreciates a mix of character and renovated finishes, and doesn't mind being cut off from the rest of the cul-de-sac by a winding driveway and set of gates. If you take pride in owning the best house on the block, best house in the whole neighbourhood even, 2 Brule Gardens is worth the investment.

MOVE ON IF

You aren't a fan of constantly mowing the lawn and balk at the thought of a fall season full of raking. With so much well-treed land to tend, this property demands hands-on maintenance (or a hearty landscaping budget.) At the very least, you'll need to clean out that pool.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

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Writing by Leslie Bank

by Staff via blogTO