Dear reader,

Toronto’s architectural fads tend to make me queasy. Weird glass boxes, façadism and—most gross—feeble attempts at heritage revival. But every now and then a novel bit of design renews my faith. 

I was impressed by Curb Appeal’s top post this week, a newly built Victorian-inspired townhouse steps from Summerhill station that actually looks good. Outside, Torontonians will be charmed by the familiar silhouette, dormer windows, white brick and front yard. But inside is something else entirely: minimalist decor, a gallery-like bathroom and a Japanese-style walk-in closet. More of this, please. 

Also in today’s newsletter: an inside look at an impressive renovation in Leaside. Plus, what $4,800 a month will get you in the Annex. Visit torontolife.com for all our real estate coverage. 

This never-lived-in $4.2-million 2,000-square-foot semi is an elegant mix of Victorian architecture and contemporary chic. It comes with an EV-ready driveway, white-oak millwork throughout, 19-foot ceilings and a wine fridge as tall as a basketball hoop. Take the tour now.

Goodbye, tiny kitchen, dated dining room, forgotten fireplace and garish colour palette. Hello, airy spaces, modern bar, cute powder room, and black and white all over. 

Here’s a 1,500-square-foot unit in the Annex that’s currently going for $4,800 a month. Occupying the top two floors of a Victorian semi, it has three bedrooms, cathedral ceilings and parking out back.

In the latest issue: an optimist’s guide to surviving every doomsday scenario imaginable. Plus, obsessed with Barbie (and other weird collections), a harrowing memoir about postpartum psychosis, the best places to eat in the burbs, and more. Still not receiving Toronto Life at home? Subscribe today.