Home to many of Old Toronto's buildings, the neighbourhood of Rosedale has many buildings that show Greek influence. The focus is primarily on the proportions of the columns as well as the Doric, Ionic, Corinthian orders. Thus, Rosedale is a prime example in Toronto where Greek Revival style exists; people showcase their wealth and power through these Greek elements of their house.
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| 97 Glen Road-- an example of ionic order |
During WWII, more Canadians lived in cities rather than farms for the first time. Also Toronto's population tripled from 1901 to 1939 due to immigration from rural Ontario and the British Isles.
Architects of the early 20th century started to embraced commercial architecture as they made ten to fifteen storey office towers. Despite having these commercial buildings, they tried out these new daring art styles such as Geometric Art Deco, and residential buildings with British style.
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86 and 88 South Drive-- an example of a house in
Rosedale with ruddy bricks |
Rosedale was the first Toronto subdivision to take advatange of the natural setting. It provided beautiful views of the ravine which connected people to nature. With the woody topography, however, Rosedale was regarded as a persistent barrier that discouraged urban development.
The neighbourhood was also too far from town but near the end of the 19th century, this all changed. By 1922, Rosedale seemed less remote and encompassed a handful of Victorian homes. This process of evolution took some time. This neighbourhood, however, was disrupted in the post war period where new traffic arteries needed room to build highway ramps and street extensions. Not to mention, the wealthy had to flee their homes in order for their estates to be converted into nursing homes. The wealthy eventually returned back to Rosedale in 80's and the neighbourhood had once again regained its prestigious reputation.
**Old Toronto Homes (2003) - Tom Cruickshank and John de Visser
