Spadina Museum- Toronto, ON

Overshadowed by its ostentatious neighbor, Casa Loma, the Spadina House is often overlooked by visitors to Toronto. Fortunately, this means its grounds remain an oasis of calm, a welcome retreat from the city that surrounds it. 

Built in 1866, the 55 room Edwardian mansion exhibits a variety of architectural styles due to multiple renovations performed over the years. Largely Second Empire on the exterior, the interiors reflect items and designs from several eras, including Victorian, Art Deco and Art Noveau. 

While the gardens are reason alone to climb the Baldwin Steps, its the interiors that will really impress architecture fans. The Art Noveau border in the billards room, which may have been painted by Gustav Hahn, is absolutely outstanding. It depicts the mansions orchards, and it’s absolute perfection. Tours are also free, so you can return often for design inspiration.