Just north of Toronto, there’s a mid-century modern home on the market that is an architectural gem. 181 Gidleigh Park Cres. was designed by renowned architect Henry Fliess, known for his work designing Sherway Gardens along with hundreds of mid-century style homes in the Don Mills area of Toronto.
The four-bedroom, five-bathroom bungalow is located in a sought-after community in Vaughan — and it was previously home to Les and Lois Shaw, of the famous Shaw family in Ontario, who commissioned Fleiss to design their private residence.
His expertise can be seen all over the property, which emphasizes abundant light with large windows, open spaces, clean lines, minimalist furnishings and a focus on functionality, according to listing agent Lawra Marzetti.
The over 5,400-square-foot home, listed for $3.38 million, is a beautiful example of west coast architecture, with natural elements enhancing the entire property.
The entranceway features a three-car garage and spacious driveway that leads to a stone and concrete walkway, surrounded by landscaped gardens. Before the front door, there’s a modern concrete fire pit perfect for relaxing.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by vaulted ceilings, exposed cedar beams and millwork throughout the foyer, including oversized clerestory windows that allow plenty of natural light into the main floor.
The spacious kitchen features exposed brick, built-in stainless steel, a Thermador double wall oven, built-in Wolf gas cooktop and a French door refrigerator. Above the island is the original copper and wood hood fan.
The breakfast nook is perfect for cozy mornings in, and includes a walk-out to the deck.
The modern and minimalist dining room overlooks the backyard and includes custom built-in cabinets.
Around the corner is the palatial living room, with vaulted, exposed beam ceilings, engineered white oak flooring, and a new feature wall with an electric fireplace and quartz stone bench for an homage to the original mid-century modern design. Oversized sliding doors lead you to the deck for a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.
The primary bedroom walks out to the deck via an oversized sliding door, and the lounge space at the foot of the bed is lit up by a vaulted ceiling with a skylight. The ensuite bathroom with a jet tub is a major perk!
The additional bedrooms include design stand-outs such as a fully-integrated feature wall and a built-in wardrobe.
The lower level is just as stunning, with multiple walk-outs to the backyard, a full home gym with oversized windows, a billiard room, custom designed bar and a wine cooler.
There’s plenty of space to relax in the family room, and residents can enjoy the four person sauna and new three-piece bathroom as well.
Of course, it’s the backyard and accompanying decks that transform this house into an oasis in the suburbs. With two main floor sundecks with seamless full glass railings that extend around the house, you’ll be all set for entertaining with a view.
The lower level lounge extends from the family room, and with sliding doors for all walk-outs, summer parties will be a breeze.
The in-ground pool was recently updated in 2021, and the patio, pool deck and hardscape are all new to the home as well.
This charming nook features a pergola and a change room perfect for visitors.
181 Gidleigh Park Cres. is listed for $3.38 million with Lawra Marzetti.