Home of the week: Rock climbing duo hire top notch team to redo Victorian era cottage

A rock-climbing couple has given a historic Victorian cottage in downtown Toronto a full makeover, tapping the best of the best to blend old-world charm with modern living. The pair, both dedicated climbers, wanted a home that matched their adventurous lifestyle while still honoring the cottage’s 19th-century bones.

They hired a top-flight team of architects and designers who preserved the original footprint and key heritage features—like ornate trim, steep-pitch roofs and tall windows—while completely redesigning the interior. The space opens up into a bright, fluid layout that flows gracefully from room to room, ideal for post-climb relaxation or hosting friends.

The kitchen was transformed with sleek, functional finishes. High-end appliances, hidden storage and natural light make it both stylish and practical. The result is a cooking space that feels warm and modern, yet fits beautifully within the Victorian shell.

Upstairs, the bedrooms are calm and serene. They feature large windows and a neutral palette that highlight both comfort and simplicity. The master suite, in particular, blends cozy design with hotel-style elegance. Bathrooms throughout the home echo this balance, using clean lines and premium materials.

Outside, the property retains its cottage-style porch and garden space. Landscaped grounds bring in native plants and a touch of natural beauty that reflects the owners’ love of the outdoors. The couple’s climbing roots are subtly celebrated with custom built-in storage for gear, ropes, and memorabilia.

Listed at $3.4 million, this renovated Victorian gem is a standout in the city’s real-estate scene. It’s part history, part high-end upgrade—and fully a reflection of the couple’s active, design-minded life.