One of Toronto’s most unique listings is back on the market. It’s a shining example of innovative home design; modern and functional, and packed with one-of-a-kind talking points. The detached, three-storey two-bedroom, four-bathroom home is located in the city’s Dufferin Grove neighbourhood and is listed for $1,399,000.

The only catch? It’s only for the narrow-minded – literally.

You can’t miss the home at 138 Clarens Avenue. In short, the ultra-narrow – but sleek and eye-catching – abode is made from shipping containers. In fact, at five years old, it was one of Toronto’s initial shipping container projects.


Described in its listing as a “low maintenance home for a savvy investor,” the property is currently set up as three apartments, each with its own separate entrance. Naturally this means three separate kitchens. With that said, it could easily be converted into a single-family home with income from the basement apartment.

Perks include a third floor deck, parking off the lane, and close proximity to shopping, transit, schools, and parks.

Our Favourite Thing

While we have a soft spot for its innovative design, we're most drawn to the pops of orange in one of the upper units. The brightness of the orange walls and tiles not only open up the narrow space, but also offer a unique retro feel that nicely juxtaposes the home's sleek and modern design.

While the home offers almost 1,700 sq. ft of living space (including the basement), it’s not for everyone – especially the claustrophobic set. Some rooms are a mere couple of metres wide.

Specs:

  • Address: 138 Clarens Avenue
  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Bathrooms: 4
  • Price: $1,399,000
  • Size: 1700 sq. ft.

Perhaps given this, the home’s listing price has dropped significantly since it was first listed in August 2022 for $1,950,000. It was removed from the market in November and re-listed on April 22. Prior to that, the property at 138 Clarens was purchased for just $220,000 in August 2016.

It should also be noted that there are currently much larger, detached single-family homes in the neighbourhood with income-generating rental potential listed at a comparable price. (But they're much more ordinary looking).

WELCOME TO 138 CLARENS AVENUE


Listed