Charming and contemporary in River Heights

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This article was published 18/11/2022 (722 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

As charming as homes in River Heights tend to be, you can’t help but wonder what lies beneath the fetching exterior of a particularly alluring residence.

Will its interior be horribly dated, or will it be modern?

Unfortunately, in many instances, interiors tend to be dated, dark and devoid of modern function.

That isn’t the case with 222 Waterloo St., says Lori Hopfner of Royal LePage Dynamic Realty.

“It definitely has a charming exterior that makes you want to see what’s inside,” she says of the cottage-like 1,818 sq. ft., one-and-a-half storey home. “And while the interior is charming, its charm comes from a wonderful combination of character and modern upgrades.”

Hopfner says the home’s yesteryear charm – it was built in 1926 – asserts itself the moment you step inside.

“Once inside, you immediately notice a living room tucked away to the right of the foyer,” she says. “It’s a cozy yet spacious space that’s anchored perfectly by a wood burning fireplace with brick surround. Lots of natural light also pours into it through three windows on its front wall.”

The next thing you see is thoroughly contemporary: a modified open-concept dining room/kitchen area.

Suffice it to say, the area is anything but dark, disjointed and dated.

“The remodeled kitchen is open to the dining area, separated only by an island that can be used as a serving area or a bar space,” Hopfner says. “It makes the area perfect for entertaining.”

At the same time, opening the kitchen up to the dining area accomplished two things.

First, it created better traffic flow between the two spaces. Second, it turned a once-dim area into a naturally bright, supremely habitable space.

“I love the kitchen’s rear wall – it’s almost all glass with two windows and a garden door with a side light,” she notes. “Lots of natural light comes in through three windows behind the dining area, and you can extend your entertaining space by stepping out the garden door to a large, private backyard deck.”

She adds that the updated kitchen looks sublime.

“It’s just fantastic with its walnut-style cabinetry, granite countertops, tile backsplash, double sink, and stainless appliances. All the finishes work together really well, and there’s also tons of storage space.”

A well-conceived floor plan also allowed for two more spaces to be incorporated into the design of the main floor, says Hopfner.

“It also includes a generous-sized bedroom and a four-piece bath. Having those spaces on the main floor gives you some flexible living options.”

Head up to the second floor, and you find three more spaces: a remodeled five-piece bath, and a pair of large bedrooms.

“The primary bedroom, which is quite large, comes with a walk-in closet, large window and enjoys access to the five-piece bath,” she says. “The other bedroom is nearly as big as the primary bedroom, and also has direct access to the bathroom.”

And while the lower level in many a 96-year-old home can only be used for storage, that isn’t the case here.

“Not only is it finished, but the ceiling height is good. There’s a large rec room, good-sized laundry/mechanical room, and lots of storage space,” Hopfner says. “A high-efficiency boiler was installed in 2013, and a radon remediation system was installed in 2019.”

There are several other features that add to the home’s livability and utility, she adds.

“The backyard is low-maintenance and comes with a 22-foot by 27-foot detached garage that has a separate workshop. You’ve got everything you need to enjoy life to the fullest.”

That enjoyment of life is enhanced even more by the home’s sensational location.

“It’s in a quiet, mid-block location in a beautiful, walkable neighbourhood that’s just a short walk to Academy Road with its wonderful collection of restaurants, shops, and hot spots. You’re also close to schools, parks, and community centers, and you can also get downtown quickly.”

Most importantly, the home is move-in-ready – and comes with a very versatile layout.

“Other updates include shingles in 2019 and upstairs carpeting in 2020,” Hopfner says. “And with the way the home was designed, it will work for almost anybody, from downsizers and young professional couples to smaller families. It’s a home that offers a perfect balance of character and contemporary styling in a fabulous location.”

lewys@mymts.net