Thorndean

Reason for registration

its construction in the mid-1830's, it has remained a landmark in South Halifax, both visually and for the social life of its prominent owners and because its restoration has become a symbol for the conservation and re-use of older buildings in the city.

Character-defining elements

Character-defining elements relating to the Georgian style architecture of Thorndean include:

- Scottish dormers in the local tradition on front and rear roofs;
- stone gable walls on east and west ends;
- one-and-a-half storeys;
- wooden square corner columns on the front elevation;
- semi-circular window in front central gable detail;
- front wood façade with wood details;
- symmetrical five bay front façade with central entrance transom and side lights;
- drop detail below the eave on front center gable;
- two end chimneys;
- plain details on the eaves and fascia;
- four 6/6 windows with shutters on the façade;
- wrought iron fence with spear heads between granite block pillars and a stone wall;
- formal sunken garden with a pool incorporating salvaged parts of the original fountain in the backyard.