21 Sylvan Avenue, Toronto

Nestled diagonally across from Dufferin Grove Park, this classic red brick semi-detached family home pairs old Toronto charm with features rarely found together in this pocket of the city. Step past the perennial gardens and legal front pad parking and be greeted by a welcoming front porch. Inside, hardwood floors, crown moulding and a brick fireplace surround anchor a spacious and bright living room. The separate dining room is sized for a proper table and long dinners with friends, with a pass-through to the kitchen, where butcher block counters, crisp white cabinetry and a gas range are joined by a door out to the rear deck. Upstairs, three bedrooms share a main bath appointed with a classic clawfoot tub and hexagonal tile. The lower level is where this home truly shines. Deepened and finished with in-floor hot water radiant heat throughout, it is bright and open, with a wall of custom built-in millwork, integrated banquette seating, and a fourth bedroom with a built-in Murphy bed that folds into a stand-up desk. A modern bathroom with a frameless glass shower completes the level. Large folding glass doors walk straight out to a private backyard retreat: a sunken patio with built-in bench seating, terraced wood steps and raised planting beds make the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. Then there are the details that make everyday city living easier. An extra-large detached garage with workshop area and upper storage loft completes this offering. No circling the block after a snowstorm hoping for a permit spot. Across the street, the park offers a weekly farmers' market, community bake ovens and outdoor rinks come winter, with the shops, cafés and restaurants of Bloor, College and Dundas West all within easy reach. Character, space and practicality in equal measure. This is incredible Dufferin Grove lifestyle living.