Where it is
2122 5 St. S.W.
The history
The Ernest S Leonard Residence was first built in 1910 and is a great representation of the Queen Anne Revival style. This architectural style features asymmetrical facades, steeply pitched rooflines, front-facing cables, and circular or square towers. This home is faced in red brick and includes a half-width, two-storey front porch.
The home’s first owner was Frederick John Marshall, a merchant from Ontario who bought the home in 1910 but didn’t live in it. The home’s first recorded resident was Ernest S Leonard, the home’s namesake.
What to love
The home is split into two suites. However, these suites have not gone through the proper permitting process with the City of Calgary to be considered legal and therefore are considered “illegal suites.”
The first suite accesses the upper floor and loft and the second accesses the main floor and basement, with separate doors into each suite.
The modern upper floor is a bright and welcoming design with a cozy living room situated around the bay window. The kitchen features ample storage space, modern appliances, countertop space and island seating. A functional den can be used as a dining room, yoga space, home office or reading nook. The main floor of this suite also has a patio with scenic downtown views. The primary bedroom includes a decorative fireplace that adds to the appeal of the room. Upstairs, the home’s loft access can easily be used as a second bedroom with ample space and vaulted ceilings that add to the spaciousness of the loft. An upper-level bathroom and laundry setup complete this suite.
The second suite is spread across the main floor and basement of the home. The kitchen and dining room setup is reminiscent of a classic diner, with bright pops of colour, checkered floors and white appliances. The living room is set up around a brick-clad fireplace with a bay window. The main floor includes its own bedroom, while the basement offers enough room to add another bedroom setup. This suite has a bathroom on the main floor, a second bathroom in the basement and a separate laundry.
What to consider
This home has plenty of historic and modern appeal. The split “illegal suites” make it a great layout for a mature family that wants to stay together while enjoying privacy. The many attractions of Mission/Cliff Bungalow and bustling 17th Avenue S.W. are all nearby.
The stats
2,067.94 (full home square footage)
Two bedrooms
Three bathrooms
Two kitchens
Split into two “illegal suites” (upper floor and loft, main floor and basement)
Upper deck and lower patio
Built in 1910
Listed for $769,000 with realtor Aly Remtulla of RE/MAX House of Real Estate.
Inside the Home
The upper floor and loft suite features a bright and cozy living room with a bay window that welcomes natural light.
The kitchen is outfitted with ample storage, island seating and access to the outdoors.
The primary bedroom is a quiet retreat with natural lighting, a decorative fireplace and room for extra seating.
The bathroom offers a three-piece layout with a shower/tub setup, sink, toilet and mounted shelving.
The upstairs loft can easily be turned into a large and spacious bedroom, a private yoga space or a home office.
The second suite in the home is spread across the main floor and basement. The living room also has a fireplace and bay window for plenty of light.
The whimsical kitchen features bright splashes of colour, checkered floors and a dining table layout.
The main bedroom in the second suite is also spacious with room for a desk and cozy seating.
The basement has ample room for a second bedroom layout, recreation space and more.
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