Swansea
is one of a few neighbourhoods in Toronto which, while located on a subway route, has also a wealth of parkland, upscale shopping in Bloor West Village, and a large proportion of bungalows.
Homes of Swansea Village, Toronto
The only Toronto neighbourhood having a lake, a river, and a pond as its natural boundaries, Swansea Village is beautifully set on sloping terrain between High Park and Humber River, south of Bloor. This topography allows magnificent views from just about any spot within the neighbourhood, and supports wildlife. Typically, on any given day, a visitor is bound to encounter a gaggle of Canadian geese feeding in one of several parks and lawns gracing the location. Beware, though, and don't come too close - these birds are territorial and don't tolerate trespassers!
Swansea contains two types of residences. Majority of the area is occupied by freehold homes, varying greatly in size and style. Small bungalows and semi-detached two storey dwellings can be found in the centre of this neighbourhood. Some of the bungalows have been renovated, topped up with a second storey or re-built creating classy medium size homes.
Fine Residences of South-East Swansea
Large, sophisticated two and three-storey residences can be found by the Grenadier Pond to the east of the area, where a ridge of high land between the Grenadier and Catfish ponds provides a setting allowing views of the ponds and surrounding parklands.
A private tranquil enclave of large mansions is situated in the west part of Swansea Village along Humber River, on
Riverside Drive and Brule Gardens
.
The majority of typical Swansea homes date from between 1905 and 1935. Although many of them are small, they often have nice wood finishes are are quite charming. In contrast to Bloor West Village, High Park and Roncesvalles Village, Swansea has a fairly large number of older bungalows. They are often purchased with a goal to add a second storey when the circumstances allow.
Convenient location and beautiful surroundings of this family-friendly area easily justify an expense of such renovation.
Fine Homes in Tranquil Valley Setting of North-East Swansea
South part of Swansea is home to several condominium buildings. The oldest are located on Ormskirk Avenue and Southport Street. An interesting fact - 45 and 65 Southport Street buildings were designed by Uno Prii, a very well known architect of Estonian origin whose many sculpted buildings can be found in the Annex.
A somewhat newer condo complex sits a little farther south, at 20, 22 and 24 Southport. Southampton condo at 1 Ripley Avenue was built later - a classy condominium building with good size units many of which have fireplaces.
At the top of Ellis Park a beautiful condo building overlooks the greenery of High Park and provides tranquil views of treetops with the lake in the distance. The newest additions along the Queensway include several recently completed buildings and townhouses, and more are still under construction.
Swansea Village has its own Town Hall and community centre with a small gym, meeting rooms, and a small library. Centrally located Rennie Park has four tennis courts, an ice rink and a wading pool for children. High Park with its many attractions is nearby, and cyclists can enjoy the long stretch of a bike trail along Lake Ontario.
