“A bit of England far from England”. That was Robert Home Smith’s vision for The Kingsway. He envisioned an idyllic community a true English garden suburb. This wasn’t just any neighbourhood. It was a meticulously planned haven. It started with Smith’s purchase of land around the Old Mill. This historic mill beside the Humber River was the heart of his plan.
The Kingsway was born from Smith’s love of English design and planning. He implemented the Garden City principles. This meant creating a balanced community with green spaces. He carefully selected the housing styles. Many homes feature Arts and Crafts details. Think handsome stone exteriors. Think intricate brickwork. He even insisted on local materials like sandstone from the Humber and Credit Rivers.
Home Smith’s influence is everywhere in The Kingsway. He controlled every detail. No house could be built without his staff’s approval. He had strict rules about tree preservation. This explains the magnificent oak and maple trees lining the streets today. The Kingsway wasn’t just about beautiful homes. Smith designed it to be car-friendly. Discreet garages were a must.
The Kingsway’s development wasn’t without challenges. World War I delayed things. The first houses appeared only in 1924. The 1929 stock market crash also impacted the area. Home Smith adjusted by reducing lot sizes. This allowed for more homes to be built. By 1947 over 600 homes graced The Kingsway.
But perhaps the biggest change came in the 1950s. A series of accidents prompted the creation of a highway interchange. This dramatically altered the neighbourhood’s character. It separated the area from older communities and changed the development pattern north of Dundas Street.
Despite these alterations The Kingsway remains a special place. Many of Etobicoke’s most prestigious addresses are here. This is a testament to Robert Home Smith’s enduring vision. It’s a legacy of thoughtful planning and a dedication to creating a truly beautiful community. A community that retains its charm and elegance even today. The Kingsway: a little bit of England in Toronto.