DesignTO Tours: Montague House

There are homes in Toronto that you walk past and wonder about, and then there is the Montague House. Tucked away in the enchanting, ravine-hugging enclave of Wychwood Park, this residence is a masterclass in architectural evolution. On May 23, 2026, DesignTO is pulling back the curtain on this private residence, offering a rare, intimate tour that bridges the gap between historic preservation and contemporary art curation.

A Legacy Reimagined

Originally designed in 1919 by Eden Smith—the architect responsible for defining much of Toronto’s early 20th-century Arts and Crafts aesthetic—the house has always possessed a certain soul. However, the current iteration is a collaborative triumph. Homeowners Dr. Kenneth Montague and artist Sarah Aranha, working alongside Tura Cousins Wilson of Studio for Contemporary Architecture, have transformed the 5,000-square-foot space into a dialogue between eras.

This isn't a museum; it’s a home. The restoration respects Smith’s original vision while introducing bold, modern interventions that create those coveted “moments of pause.” You’ll see how the architecture doesn't just hold the art—it frames it, creating sightlines that draw you from one room to the next, turning the act of living into an ongoing exhibition.

The Wedge Collection at Home

For those who follow the Toronto art scene, the name Kenneth Montague is synonymous with the Wedge Collection. Since 1997, Montague has been a powerhouse in championing Black artists, building a collection that is as much about cultural history as it is about aesthetic beauty. Seeing these works integrated into a domestic space is a transformative experience. It challenges the sterile “white cube” gallery model, showing how art can feel both monumental and deeply personal when lived with daily. Having the homeowners themselves lead the tour, alongside DesignTO Artistic Director Deborah Wang, provides a level of insight you simply cannot get from a gallery placard.

Exploring Wychwood Park

If you haven't spent time in Wychwood Park, you are in for a treat. It is arguably one of Toronto’s most unique neighbourhoods—a private, gated community that feels like a secret forest hidden in the middle of the city. After the tour, take a walk through the winding, tree-lined streets. You’ll feel the shift in pace immediately.

If you’re looking for a post-tour bite, head just a few minutes south to St. Clair Avenue West. The area has seen a massive culinary renaissance. Grab a coffee or a light lunch at one of the many independent cafes, or explore the nearby Wychwood Barns, a community hub that perfectly mirrors the spirit of design and public engagement that this tour supports.

Good to Know

Tickets are priced at $100, which serves as a charitable contribution to DesignTO’s year-round programming. Because this is a private residence, space is extremely limited, and advance registration is mandatory.

• **Professional Development:** If you are an architect or designer, don’t forget to request your certificate for one hour of structured continuing education during registration.
• **The Gift:** As a thank you for your support, attendees will receive a complimentary gift from Aesop—a fitting touch for an event that celebrates sensory and aesthetic refinement.
• **Getting There:** Wychwood Park is tucked away near St. Clair Ave W and Christie St. While there is limited parking in the area, it is easily accessible by the St. Clair streetcar or a short walk from the Christie bus. Given the exclusive nature of the event, arriving a few minutes early is highly recommended to ensure you don't miss the start of the guided walkthrough.