This unusual Second Empire/Stick style home in Brookline was built by Winand Toussaint in 1881. Toussaint was born in Belgium and later settled in Brazil, before moving to Brookline in 1854. Toussaint was listed as both a furniture manufacturer as well as an architect, which likely means he designed this home himself. Toussaint died in 1904, and his widow remained in the home until her death. The house is unique for its chamfered corners, with one holding the front door. The Second Empire architectural style is apparent due to the mansard roof with belvedere and 2-over-2 windows with hoods at the dormers. The Stick style is featured through the brackets and baseboards which frame some trimwork and the small detailing above the brackets at the chamfered corners.
Buildings of New England 