Introduction
This week we’re taking you on a tour of a charming Victorian-era home in Toronto that has been lovingly restored to preserve its historic character. Located in the Annex neighborhood, this property is a fine example of the classic Victorian architectural style, with plenty of original details that make you feel transported back in time.
The owners, Suzanne and Michael, purchased the property over a decade ago and have since embarked on an extensive renovation to restore the home’s Victorian spirit. While modernizing the kitchen and some other spaces, they took great care to maintain the home’s historic integrity. Join us as we explore this breathtaking Kitchen of the Week and see how Suzanne and Michael blended the old and new.
A Respectful Renovation
When Suzanne and Michael took on the renovation of their Victorian home, they had a clear vision: to preserve the original character while creating a comfortable, functional space for modern living.
The previous owners had remodeled the kitchen in the 1980s, covering up original features with laminate cabinets and linoleum floors. Suzanne and Michael painstakingly removed these elements to uncover the room’s Victorian bones. This included:
- Uncovering and restoring the original 150-year-old wood floors
- Exposing brick walls and an antique cooking fireplace
- Salvaging and incorporating antique lighting fixtures
The results are a seamless blend of old and new that respects the integrity of this historic Toronto home. “We wanted to maintain the Victorian spirit of the house,” shares Suzanne. “The kitchen is the heart of a home, so it was important to us to do this restoration properly.”
Blending Vintage and Modern Elements
The kitchen beautifully pairs original Victorian features with modern updates for a functional cooking space.
Antique Inspiration
Several antique elements inspired the new kitchen design:
- Salvaged period-appropriate cabinetry integrated with new custom cabinetry
- Vintage-look refrigerator clad in antique copper
- Farmhouse sink installed in original wood countertop
“We wanted to preserve little slices of history wherever we could,” Michael explains. This included restoring original built-ins and adding custom cabinetry made to match.
Modern Conveniences
While honoring its past, the kitchen was also updated with modern conveniences:
- Discreet Miele appliances like the gas cooktop and panel-front refrigerator
- Heated floors providing comfort underfoot
- Energy-efficient lighting
“It was important to us not to modernize too much,” says Suzanne. “We wanted to showcase the home’s heritage.”
Period-Perfect Design Elements
Beyond the major features, many period-perfect design details came together to create a cohesive Victorian-inspired space.
Timeless Materials
The materials used throughout the kitchen echo the home’s origins:
- Penny tile floor in a classic black and white checkerboard pattern
- Unlacquered brass hardware on cabinets
- White subway tile backsplash with delicate black accents
Elegant Fixtures
The lighting and plumbing fixtures were chosen to enhance the vintage ambiance:
- Schoolhouse-style pendant lights over the sink
- Porcelain knobs on the stove hood
- Traditional bridge faucet with side sprayer
Warm Finishes
Warm metal and wood finishes connect the space to the late 1800s:
- Antiqued copper on range hood and knobs
- Butcher block countertops with hand-rubbed oil finish
- Unpainted brass lighting and hardware
“We wanted to create harmony between all the elements while remaining true to the period,” Michael explains.
Blending Old and New
Part of what makes this kitchen so special is how gracefully it blends original Victorian elements with present-day updates.
- The antique fireplace and restored wood floors anchor the space in the past.
- New heated tile flooring and energy-efficient appliances increase comfort and function.
- Salvaged and custom cabinetry pair seamlessly together.
As Suzanne says, “The kitchen feels truly Victorian yet livable for a modern family.”
The homeowners struck the perfect balance between showcasing heritage and creating an enjoyable, workable kitchen. This symphony of old and new allows the essence of the original Victorian home to shine through.
FAQs
What time period is the Victorian style?
The Victorian era spanned Queen Victoria’s rule from 1837 to 1901. Victorian homes embrace ornate details inspired by various past revival styles.
What are some key features of Victorian home design?
Distinctive features include decorative woodwork, tall ceilings, large porches, bay windows, ornamental fireplaces, and a mix of materials and textures.
What are some common kitchen features in Victorian homes?
Typical Victorian kitchens have ticking striped wallpaper, apron-front sinks, farmhouse tables, and ornate built-ins. Pantry cabinets and butler’s pantries are also common.
How did the owners restore the original Victorian elements?
They uncovered 150-year-old wood floors, exposed original brick walls, and restored antique lighting fixtures. They also salvaged period-appropriate cabinetry.
What modern updates did they incorporate?
The owners discreetly integrated modern appliances, heated floors, energy-efficient lighting, and fresh tile work while preserving the vintage spirit.
How did they seamlessly blend old and new elements?
Details like unlacquered brass hardware, subway tile, and antique-inspired plumbing bridge old and new. The kitchen strikes an artful balance between heritage and function.
Conclusion
This Kitchen of the Week is a stunning example of blending vintage charm with modern living. The homeowners’ careful restoration work preserved the original Victorian details while incorporating present-day conveniences. Their passion shines through in the way they artfully bridged past and present. This Toronto kitchen will no doubt inspire many to undertake respectful renovations that honor a home’s unique history and architecture.
