The Annex: Authentic Toronto at its Finest
Beautiful, large trees line the streets providing shade and a small-town sense of peace from the surrounding hustle and bustle of the city. The unique architecture and close proximity to the University of Toronto create a diverse cast of residents ranging from prominent business people, celebrities, and U of T students in one neighborhood together.
The Properties
The Annex is a fine example of Toronto’s heritage and rich architectural beginnings. This historical neighborhood has homes ranging in style, however, it’s easy to identify the two major waves of development.
The first homes in The Annex were built in the 1880s-1910s. These properties feature Queen Anne, Victorian, and Richardsonian Romanesque styling, with beautiful red brick and terra cotta clay exteriors. These homes are beautiful examples of what would become the eponymous “Annex Style” with sweeping arches and turrets, large attics, and Credit Valley sandstone highlights.
The second wave of development occurred in the 1920s and 1930s. These homes are excellent examples of English Cottage and Tudor styling, however slightly less prominent than the older buildings, they are still striking.
Many of these older properties were once split into multi-unit buildings or used as housing for students, however, today, we are seeing many properties get converted back into single-family homes, signaling a slight shift in the neighborhood’s demographics towards more ‘family living’.
The Neighbours
The Annex is home to a diverse population. Starting out as one of Toronto’s premier neighborhoods, The Annex has been home to many prominent Torontonians and celebrities such David Suzuki, Catherine O’Hara, and Margaret Atwood to name a few. In addition to the prominent names, The Annex is home to a cross-section of artists, business people, young families, and university students. The community also operates a volunteer Resident’s Association committed to preserving the overall charm and character of The Annex.
