Take a drive down Cobourg Street in Stratford... two houses side by side sympathetically renovated with appropriate details and colors to support their Gothic Revival heritage... nice to see. Notice how the colourful board and batten siding accentuates the vertical thrust of the walls. The second story dormers add character and curb appeal.

Better yet, take a walk! Stratford's Festival Walk is a self-guided tour of the beautiful homes and buildings en-route to the Festival Theatre beginning at Knox Church. Look for the bronze plaques to identify designated buildings and their original owners. It is amazing to live in a city for over half of your life and not notice the lovely details which make it such a unique place. It really is as easy as taking a leisurely walk.

Rory McDonnell is a General Contractor, Licensed Carpenter and Architectural Designer with Build, a construction firm in Stratford, Ontario, specializing in new custom homes and renovations.

A recent drive thru the town of Madoc uncovered a wonderful gem of an old stone house. Note to self: always carry the big camera as this photo was taken with my iphone and doesn't do this home justice. 

Wonderful variety and scale in both the stone and wood works, including a quatrefoil pattern in the gable over the door. Love the covered entry and the three bay window as well. The lovely detailed gables echo the Lancet window arches. Generous discounts to prospective clients wanting to replicate this beautiful home.

PS. I am not the only one to admire this house. Notice the cover of this book, Old Ontario Houses, which I just found!

Rory McDonnell is a General Contractor, Licensed Carpenter and Architectural Designer with Build, a construction firm in Stratford, Ontario, specializing in new custom homes and renovations.