Founder's House
Where original character meets thoughtful renewal, the Founder's House is a heritage home reimagined with care.
Location Parkdale, Calgary
Size 1,500 sqft
Status Under Construction
Status Under Construction
The house that started Parkdale.
This character home has been thoughtfully reimagined, blending careful architectural restoration with modern family living. Situated on a corner lot within a playground zone, directly backing onto Parkdale’s cherished community garden and park, this fully restored home balances heritage charm with contemporary comfort, emphasizing craftsmanship and abundant natural light.
A Piece of History
As a municipally-designated heritage property built in 1913, the Founder's House is a rich piece of Calgary's history. Its enduring presence speaks to the craft and care of its original construction. Previously lived in by the Jones family for 40 years, they reached out to Studio North to ensure the homes' continued legacy through thoughtful restoration that honours the past while adapting the home for contemporary life.
Just off the kitchen, the garden room opens to the backyard through triple-pane French doors. It’s a bright, easygoing space to sit among the fig trees and ferns, share a quiet breakfast, and keep an eye on the kids playing in the park just beyond. Tucked just off the garden room is the main floor powder room, easily accessible but discreetly placed.
The kitchen is designed to be both durable and beautiful, with leather-finished granite countertops that feel as good as they look. A custom peninsula, detailed with a hand-turned spindle by local artisan Shane Arsenal, adds a quiet, crafted touch. Custom douglas fir cabinets and quality appliances are built to handle the pace of everyday family life.
The primary bedroom is bright with morning sun, thanks to panoramic windows and an operable skylight that brings in natural light and allows for passive cooling and ventilation. Built-in dressers and an oversized wardrobe offer generous storage, while a tucked-away laundry space adds everyday convenience. The ensuite features full in-floor heating for added comfort year-round.
The second bathroom retains its original heritage fixtures and opens to a beautiful, light-filled space. Large windows frame peaceful views over the park and catch the sunrise each morning, adding a quiet charm to the start of the day. Altogether, the upper floor is both functional and thoughtfully detailed, with plenty of storage throughout
The living room is centered around a wood-burning fireplace, framed by original old-growth Douglas fir trim. These heritage elements are intentionally designed to absorb the wear and tear of everyday family life, improving in character over time.
The front yard is enclosed by a charming picket fence, creating a welcoming contained space for kids, pets, gardening, or peaceful mornings. The spacious veranda includes a built-in porch swing, picnic table, and overhead heater, ideal for enjoying meals with family. A built-in sound system extends from indoors to the outdoor spaces, creating a comfortable atmosphere whether relaxing or hosting.
In the back, a generous deck stretches toward the green space, complete with natural gas connections for an outdoor kitchen and fire table, creating the perfect setting for gatherings or casual family evenings.
Attached to the garage is a versatile flex space complete with kitchenette and a three-piece bathroom, suitable for a home office, gym, or guest suite for family and friends.
The two-car detached garage features new douglas fir siding, with a functional and thoughtfully equipped interior. It includes 400-amp electrical service, radiant in-floor heating, a shop sink, and clerestory windows for plenty of natural daylight.
The basement was fully renovated and re-insulated, offering rare ceiling height for a home of this era. It retains plenty of heritage character while providing practical space for modern living. There are two large storage rooms, a well-maintained mechanical room, and a full bathroom, making the lower level both functional and flexible. Whether used as a family room, guest space, or studio, the basement adds real usability to the home.
