In 1860, a prominent Toronto architect, Frederic W. Cumberland, completed his dream home. He named it Pendarves. Cumberland House, as it’s known today, stands as a testament to his vision and a unique piece of Toronto’s history. This Italianate villa-style residence originally faced east, overlooking the nascent University of Toronto campus. The renowned firm Cumberland & Storm designed this architectural gem.
Cumberland House wasn’t always a university building. It began as a family home, nestled within spacious grounds. The main entrance originally greeted visitors from the east, towards the burgeoning University of Toronto. In 1883, William Storm, Cumberland’s partner, significantly redesigned the house. This redesign shifted the main entrance to face St. George Street. It also incorporated Victorian architectural elements, blending the charm of two different eras.
Here’s a fascinating twist. Following the closure of the Government House on Simcoe Street in 1912, the Ontario government needed a temporary official residence for the Lieutenant Governor. They chose Pendarves. Sir John Gibson resided here until 1914, followed by Sir John Hendrie until 1915. Then, Chorley Park, a grander vice-regal residence, was completed.
The University of Toronto acquired Pendarves in 1923. They eventually renamed it Cumberland House. Today, it houses the International Student Centre, a fitting role for a building with such a rich and varied past. Cumberland House stands as a rare surviving example of Cumberland’s residential work. Its time as the Lieutenant Governor’s residence adds another layer of historical significance. Imagine the conversations, the decisions, the history that unfolded within these walls. From family home to vice-regal residence to international student centre, Cumberland House has witnessed a fascinating evolution. It embodies the spirit of Toronto, a city where history and progress intertwine.