431 Albert Street

The Benjamin O'Neil House represents something increasingly difficult to find: an older home with genuine character, craftsmanship and a story of its own, thoughtfully renovated for modern living. Original 8.5 ft front doors, rich red pine floors, soaring ceilings, intricate plaster medallions, substantial heritage trim, transom and oversized windows create an atmosphere that is not easily reproduced in a new home. The principal living and dining rooms retain the elegance expected of a home of this era, while the redesigned kitchen introduces a contemporary standard of living. Upstairs, three bedrooms provide tranquility and privacy. The primary suite is lovely with its own sitting room offering a private place to read, relax or simply enjoy. The beautifully finished bathroom continues the property's blend of old and new with spa-like heated floors, a classic clawfoot tub and an impressive 7 ft glass shower. A finished lower level adds an entirely different dimension: a spacious guest room, bathroom, and rec area with an 85 inch theatre screen, heated office floor and a hidden speakeasy-inspired wine room. Outside, the covered porches provide the transitional spaces that make older homes so enjoyable-places for a morning beverage, to gather with friends or watch the seasons change. This property has been transformed into a private four season destination, with an expansive Wolf high density deck, outdoor kitchen, hot tub and a 16 ft x 16 ft pavilion centred around a stone fireplace. Perhaps the greatest appeal is not having to choose between character and convenience. The original craftsmanship and history remain. The architectural details that give an older home its soul remain, but the major improvements have already been undertaken. Located approximately 40 minutes from London and Stratford, and a 20 minute drive to the Lake Huron shoreline, step away from the ordinary and into a home that feels established, personal and enduring.