Real Estate Guide › West

Lambton Baby Point

Average 2007 sale price:

$1,070,000

Property crime:

very low

Crime against people:

very low

Neighbourhood map:

See map

The stately homes of Baby Point (pronounced Babby Point—named for James Baby, a francophone fur trader who settled here in 1816—though not even locals use the correct articulation) make up the neighbourhood’s south end.
Complete with a gate at its Jane and Baby Point Road entrance, the enclave exudes exclusivity. A descendant of the Baby family sold the land in 1910, and in 1912 it served as a training ground for Robert Home Smith, the developer who went on to pour his Arts and Crafts soul into Kingsway South. As you get further north into Lambton, the brick and stone turns into vinyl siding and the houses get smaller, befitting the working-class origins of the town that was known in the 19th century as Lambton Mills (for its wool and grist mills). Unfortunately, the developers who created Lambton pretty much ignored their main assets: the rambling ravine and the snaking Humber. From the layout of the streets and the positions of the houses, this might as well be the middle of Saskatchewan—the ravine and river are out of sight. However, depending on the budget, Lambton Baby Point could be the perfect neighbourhood, with prices just a little higher than nearby Mount Dennis, but with greenery and a riverside location. Near the Humber River, the expansive and highly walkable Etienne Brûlé Park is a district highlight.

HOUSING STOCK: Tudor and Victorian detached homes in the south have a handsome, Rosedale-like look, but on a slightly more modest scale, with much larger lots. There are more tightly packed versions of the same style, built with different materials, to the north.

BARGAIN ZONES: Prices are more accessible as you get further north, and closer to Jane Street.

THE VERDICT: With ample parkland, bike trails along the Humber, and schools within walking distance for the many families who populate the leafy streets, the whole area has a wholesome feel.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOT SPOTS:
Bryden’s Locals gather here to hoist a pint and catch the game. 2455 Bloor St. W., 416-760-8069.
Grange Restaurant and Wine Bar Owned by a lifelong resident, this intimate resto and neighbourhood hangout serves good bistro-style fare. 2469 Bloor St. W., 416-767-8540.
Supper Solved Make your own meals for the week in the on-site kitchen, order specific meals to be made for you, or pick up ready-made dinner on your way home. 2452 Bloor St. W., 416-848-0528.