15 years ago
Kodak (Eastman Kodak)
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Recent status | Demolished |
Location # | 15605 |
To be honest, this location was never on my radar until I saw it featured on CTV News earlier this month (I’ve included the link). This very unique crumbling castle house has been attracting attention for years and has been showcased on various websites and has been named Toronto’s “weirdest” house.
It started off as a modest bungalow when Max Heiduczek purchased it back in 1970. Max spent years travelling the world and gained inspiration from seeing a vast variety of architecture along the way. He then took it upon himself to build additions to the house at his own pace, adding Greek, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean features to it. You can also find various statues on top of the roof and around the property.
Max who is now in his eighties, had moved out of his beloved castle earlier in the year. He currently resides in a seniors’ home and is sadly battling dementia. The house had fallen in disrepair over the last few years and you can see on Google Maps that a small portion has already been removed.
A few weeks ago the house was sold to a developer for $760,000 with plans of tearing it down to allow for a brand new home to be put up in its place. It’ll be sad to see it go but I really wanted to document it before it met its demise. I reached out to the broker of the deal, Bernie Jarrar of Sterling Realty Inc. to ask permission to photograph the interior. Surprisingly he got back to me right away and we set up an appointment to do so. I can’t thank Bernie enough for taking the time out of his busy schedule and allowing me to do this. I only had a half hour window, so I had to hit the ground running, literally!
Most of the contents had been sold off already but there was still plenty left to capture. I was amazed at the many wall murals and decorative wallpaper throughout. The piano, indoor pool and the dome were definite highlights. I was so glad to experience the inside of this unique castle house.
Please respect this property and don’t expect to show up and get inside. The house has been secured very well and neighbours keep a close eye on it and will approach you even if you are just walking around taking exteriors.
From trespasseverywhere: One of Scarborough's most iconic and mysterious homes. A CTV article has been written about it (see the link). Neighbours saw me inside but didn't react, however, I've heard of other explorers being hassled by police for being inside here. Underground pool and massive murals are certainly a unique highlight!
5 years ago
Interesting place.... the many murals and strange wallpaper speaks for itself.