.png)
When you’re feeling cramped in your apartment, condo, or house, spare a thought for the residents of 128 Day Avenue, a property tucked near Dufferin and Rogers Road in Toronto. With a footprint of just 29 square meters, this pint-sized home holds the title of the smallest house in the city. Despite its size, it’s managed to garner big attention, even making an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in January 2008.
A Creative Beginning in 1912
The tiny house owes its existence to the creativity and resourcefulness of Arthur Weeden, a contractor active in Toronto's west end in the early 20th century. Built in 1912, the house was squeezed into a gap originally intended for laneway access. However, the curb stones meant to facilitate vehicular entry were never lowered, leaving the narrow lot seemingly useless—until Weeden saw its potential.
He constructed the modest bungalow for himself and his wife, where they lived for 20 years. Though snug, the couple made it a home, tending a vegetable garden and sleeping in the single rear bedroom tucked behind the kitchen.
A House That Became a Celebrity
After Weeden’s passing, the property changed hands several times, but its charm and uniqueness ensured it never faded into obscurity. In 2010, the house hit the market for $180,000, a mere $1,968 per square meter, significantly below Toronto’s average home prices at the time.
The sale drew widespread attention, culminating in a feature on Ellen DeGeneres’s talk show. Beyond its TV fame, the home has inspired songs, including “Come Back To Me” by Maria Lee Carta, and even boasts its own official website, underscoring its celebrity status.
Living Small: A Tour Inside
What does life look like in Toronto’s tiniest house? The main floor offers a compact yet functional layout with a living room, kitchen, and a sleeping area equipped with a Murphy bed—a necessity given the room's small size. A hatch in the kitchen leads to a petite basement, adding some storage and utility space. Despite its limited square footage, the home has a charming appeal that continues to captivate curiosity.
Tiny as it may be, 128 Day Avenue reminds us that homes are about more than just size. With its rich history, resourceful design, and a touch of fame, this little house stands tall as a symbol of Toronto's creative spirit. Next time you grumble about lack of space, remember: cozy living might just be the key to big stories.
