Modern Living

SPRING 2015
Modern Living
THE BEST IN CONDO MARKET INFO AND NEIGHBOURHOOD CULTURE
DISCOVER: MARKHAM,
LESLIEVILLE &
WEST QUEEN WEST
Travel: To Tuscany with
DEBBIE TRAVIS
Enjoy: Fresh Design Ideas
by Montana Labelle &
Sabrina Albanese
PURE PASSION. PURE PLAZA. ONE OF TORONTO’S TOP
CONDOMINIUM BUILDERS WITH OVER 3,200 SALES IN THE LAST THREE YEARS.
PLAZA COMMUNITIES:
NOW
OPEN
MOVE IN NOW
King West - Building Now Registered
65, 75, 85 East Liberty St., Toronto
Sales Office located at 125 Western Battery Rd.
647.341.1731
The Tower - Building Now Registered
125 Western Battery Rd., Toronto
Sales Office located at 125 Western Battery Rd.
647.341.1731
York Harbour Club
35 Bastion Street & 38 Grand Magazine Street, Toronto
Sales Office located at 24 Grand Magazine Street
416.214.4517
Ivory on Adelaide
400 Adelaide St. East, Toronto
Sales Office located at 125 Western Battery Rd.
647.341.1731
Edge
2-6 Lisgar Street, Toronto
Sales Office Located at 1151 Queen Street West
416.516.5848
NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION
EPIC - Occupancy Date January 2015
48 Abell Street, Toronto
Sales Office located at 1151 Queen Street West
416.516.5848
Musée - Occupancy Date July 2016
Pre-construction Pricing
525 Adelaide Street West, Toronto
Sales Office located at 50 Wellesley St. East
416.862.0888
NOW OPEN
50 at Wellesley Station - Occupancy Date June 2017
50 Wellesley St. East, Toronto
Sales Office located at 50 Wellesley St. East
416.862.0888
1 Yorkville - Occupancy Date January 2018
1 Yorkville Ave., Toronto
Sales Office located at 162 Cumberland St.
416.519.2911
COMING SOON
The Met at Vaughan Metropolitan Centre
Vaughan across from the NEW TTC Subway Station
Theatre District Tower
on Adelaide
170 Spadina
at Queen
Presentation Centre Hours:
Mon–Thurs: 12pm–6pm
Fri: Closed
Weekends & Holidays:
11am–5pm
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5%
On signing
In 180 days
In 270 days
On occupancy
1 Bedroom + Den from $369,000
2 Bedrooms from $425,000
FROM THE EDITOR
WELCOME BACK SPRING, WE MISSED YOU!
Modern Living
T
his past winter a wonderful
thing happened. Our passion
for Toronto and our belief in its
quality of urban living has been
validated. Indeed, Toronto has
been ranked as the best city to live in the
world by the Economist, based on a range
of things including safety and liveability. We
knew it! And we’re happy to keep passing on information
and stories about the things that continue to make it so.
Economist validation aside, one of the best things
about winter in Toronto might just be that it precedes
spring, every time. The hustle and bustle of spring is
in the air. Living, planning, exploring artistic inspiration and neighbourhood culture all take on new life in
spring. For me, spring never fails to deliver excitement
for warmer temperatures, longer days, and the budding
possibilities of new things to come.
In Condo Elite Modern Living’s Spring 2015 edition,
we think you’ll see that among the list of budding
possibilities is an evolving range of
condo offerings, amenities, and
project locations. Inside you’ll
NEW FOR
2015
hear from condo builders
CHECK OUT OUR
who are moving north
TEAR-RIFIC
NEIGHBOURHOODS
by Iris Benaroia
to Vaughan, Markham and sister-town
Unionville. Writer Duncan McAllister
spent some time in Markham recently and
his discoveries may shake up your former
view of one of the fastest-growing GTA
communities. You’ll also find legal advice,
moving tips, and downsizing suggestions to
ease any transition to condo living.
New for 2015 is our “Tear-rific Neighbourhoods”
feature. Iris Benaroia, one of our feature writers and a
GTA neighbourhood aficionado, will put together handy
tear-out guides to 2 neighbourhoods in each edition. Inside this issue, Iris travels from east to west and provides
her favourite finds for Leslieville and West Queen West.
Spring is also a great time to get that design project underway or to simply spruce things up. Toronto
Designers Sabrina Albanese and Montana Labelle have
some luxurious and bold ideas. With ‘big is the new
small’ as a mantra for condo and town home design you
may change the way you see your space. We also introduce you to Gina Godfrey, a contemporary Toronto artist
making a splash around the globe.
And just in case even springtime can’t keep you in
Toronto, we share some travel tips and ideas for New
Orleans, Italy, and Switzerland.
Regardless of where you’re going – moving, shopping,
or traveling, I hope you’ll want to keep your copy of
Condo Elite Modern Living handy.
THE BEST IN CONDO MARKET INFO AND
NEIGHBOURHOOD CULTURE
CONDO ELITE S P R I N G
| 1
EDITOR IN CHIEF
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Monique Charbonneau
[email protected]
ART DIRECTOR
Felice Waldman
[email protected]
ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR
Laura Keeler-Lavin
[email protected]
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Boni Wagner-Stafford
VOLUNTEER
Hunter Peebles
PUBLISHED BY
Condo Elite Modern Living is
conte
6
published quarterly by
MJ Rochester Publishing Ltd.
1 | EDITOR’S LETTER
4 | OUR CONTRIBUTORS
NEIGHBOURHOOD
CULTURE
6 | MARKHAM: Cosmopolitan &
Countryside By Duncan McAllister
TEAR-RIFIC
NEIGHBOURHOODS
MJ Rochester Publishing Inc.
Office:
2 St. Clair Ave. East, Suite 202
Toronto, ON M4T 2T5
24 |WEST QUEEN WEST: Hip & Cool
By Iris Benaroia
34 |LESLIEVILLE: Community Spirit &
Accounts Receivable:
1601 Bayview Ave., 43590
Toronto, ON, Canada M4G 4G8
Vintage Shops By Iris Benaroia
ARTS & CULTURE
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole
or part of Condo Elite Modern Living without
permission is prohibited. Printed in Canada.
9 | SENSUOUS TORONTO Celebrity Chef
Laura Calder Shows Us Her Toronto
By Laura Keeler-Lavin
Submissions are welcomed via mail or email,
however, we cannot assume responsibility for
unsolicited manuscripts and photographs.
20 | FEATURED ARTIST: Gina
Godfrey By Mijana Germanski
Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy.
However, we will not be held liable for errors
identified after publication.
38 | CITY EVENTS CALENDAR
CONDO ELITE
8
Modern Living
condoelite.ca
[email protected]
Tel: 416.477.7690
A publication of
MJ Rochester Publishing Inc.
WHEREVER YOU ARE!
@CondoElite
Aspen Ridge: Studio Community
www.STUDIOcondos.ca
34
STAY CONNECTED WITH
Condo Elite Modern Living
Condo Elite Modern Living
ON THE COVER
14
nts
S P R I NG I S S UE 2 0 1 5
CONTENTS
DEPARTMENTS
EXCITING NEWS
17 | THE OPENING OF THE CANADIAN MUSEUM
OF HUMAN RIGHTS By Toby Saltzman
25 | THE GUPTA GROUP Bringing New Life To
The Yonge & Yorkmills Hood
35 | TRIDEL GIVES BACK With A New Interactive
Art Installation
DESIGN
10 | DESIGNER SABRINA ALBANESE’S SPACE
SAVVY TIPS By Laura Keeler-Lavin
EXPLORE
14 | INTERVIEW with designer Montana Labelle
By Mijana Germanski
2 |DEBBIE TRAVIS’ TUSCAN
1
FOOD LOVERS GETAWAY
EXPERT ADVICE
18 | MOVING EXPERT: A Greener Move
By Chuck Resnick
22 | CONDO EXPERT: Downsize and Maximize
By Mark Cohen
23 | LEGAL EXPERT: Navigating The Purchase
Agreement By Martin Rumack
37 | CONDO EXPERT: Your Condo Backyard
By Barbara Lawlor
TECH TALK
28 | WILD & WEIRD GADGETS By Marc Saltzman
By Mijana Germanski
26 | GENIUS GETAWAY: NEW ORLEANS
By Monique Charbonneau
30 |A TASTE OF SWITZERLAND By Toby Saltzman
MARKET INFO
8 |ASPEN RIDGE: STUDIO COMMUNITY
16 | ELAD: THE CHARM AT EMERALD CITY
32 |PLAZA’S UPDATE WITH SCOTT MCLELLAN
36 | TRIBUTE COMMUNITIES: VARLEY CONDOMINIUM
40 | DANIELS: COMING SOON — THE BARTHOLOMEW
20
6
10
12
25
40 26
our
contributors
CONTRIBUTORS
PLUS, KEEP
YOUR EYE OUT FOR
VISITING CONTRIBUTORS,
WRITERS AND GUESTS
Debbie Travis
Brian Gluckstein
Laura Calder
Glen Peloso
Julie Carlson
Jim Flynn
Deirdre Kelly
Andrea Pearce
Duncan McAllister
Mark Cohen
MARC SALTZMAN
Marc Saltzman is one of North America’s most recognizable and
trusted tech experts, specializing in consumer electronics, internet trends
and interactive entertainment. Marc has authored 15 books since 1996 and
currently contributes to nearly 50 high-profile publications in North America,
including Toronto Star, USA Today, AARP, MSN, Yahoo!, Costco Connection, Postmedia, Media
Planet, Movie Entertainment, Telus Talks Business and Rogers Connected. Marc hosts various
video segments, including “Gear Guide” (seen at Cineplex movie theatres and sister chains across
Canada) and is a regular guest on CNN, CNN International and CTV’s Canada AM. Marc also
hosts “Tech Talk,” a syndicated radio spot across Canada.
TOBY SALTZMAN
Toby Saltzman has travelled the globe seeking ultimate experiences in adventurous destinations and
cultural enclaves. Winner of many awards – including the coveted GOLD and SILVER Lowell Thomas
Travel Journalism Awards – Toby finds joy whether trekking through Patagonia, hiking the Swiss alps,
dog mushing in Nunavut, golfing in Monaco, or sailing to exotic ports of call. Her work has appeared in
national and international newspapers and magazines – including Global Traveler and ZOOMER – and
websites including her own travelterrific.com.
IRIS BENAROIA
Iris Benaroia divides her time equally between accosting hard covers in bookstores, and banging
out stories as a freelance journalist living in Toronto. She writes for The National Post, House &
Home, Style at Home, The Globe and Mail and HGTV.com. She spends her free time perfecting
piecrust, petting dogs and reading. She regularly wakes up with copies of The New Yorker stuck
to her rump. BARBARA LAWLOR
Barbara Lawlor is president and CEO of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand
columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and
sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker
Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com
MARTIN RUMACK
Martin Rumack has practiced real estate law for over 30 years. If you have any questions, please
feel free to contact him at [email protected].
4 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
NEIGHBOURHOOD CULTURE
markham
–
c o s m o p o l i ta n
&
countryside
markham
Cosmopolitan and Countryside
BY DUNCAN McALLISTER
Lifestyle choices
abound as the
new CITY of
MARKHAM
rapidly
becomes one
of the GTA’s
foremost urban
centres.
Once a sprawling
expanse of farmers’
fields, Markham has
undergone explosive
growth that will see the
urbanization of several
key neighbourhoods
throughout the region;
a diverse patchwork of
independent communities
north of Steeles Avenue
drawn around their historic
rural boundaries.
6 | S
HOLIDAY
PRING CONDO
CONDOELITE
ELITE
T
he big story here is the rapid pace of new condo development in many of
Markham’s neighbourhoods. “Certainly we’re going to see some changes
over the next five years.” says Markham Mayor, Frank Scarpitti. “Each
community tends to have a different feel or a different focal point, and Markham
Centre truly is starting to shape up as an urban core.”
According to Scarpitti, the city has long held a vision for a new urbanism. “We
embarked on a process to try and create a downtown area,” he explains. “Something
that would be vibrant, that would be designed for people, not cars, that would have
buildings in public places integrated with each other.”
The Markham Village Business Improvement Area (BIA) represents 160
businesses in and around historic Main Street, having recently endured a complete
revitalization over a two-and-a-half-year period. BIA Marketing Manager Christine
Matthews has witnessed a dramatic change since she arrived here 16 years ago. “It’s
unrecognizable,” she says. “There’s a lot of development going on around here, it’s
going like gangbusters.”
Sierra Building Group has just completed its 66 Main Street mid-rise condo
project with a quaint, landmark clock turret, in keeping with the heritage form of
the street. “It’s a beautiful project,” says Matthews, adding the business community is
extremely happy with the outcome that brings 144 new condos to the street and 300
potential new customers.
At Warden and Highway 7, the Remington Group has embarked on an ambitious
project that will represent the largest planned, mixed-use development in Canada.
The $3‐billion Downtown Markham project is well underway and includes a mix of
retail, residential and commercial properties, including the Signature Condominium
Collection, an exclusive condominium hotel. Designed by Quadrangle Architects
with interiors by II BY IV Design, floors one to seven comprise the Marriott Hotel
with 209 rooms and condo suites on floors eight to 16.
Markham is a shopper’s paradise, boasting a variety of large-scale shopping
centres. Plans are also underway for the gigantic King Square Mall, a mixed-use
project that will become North America’s largest Asian-themed mall with nearly
markham
–
c o s m o p o l i ta n
&
countryside
one million square feet of commercial space. Built on
a 4.8-hectare parcel of land on the corner of Woodbine
Avenue and Markland Street, the facility will include a
banquet hall, convention centre and offices, with a fourstar hotel and residences planned
for phases two and three.
Varley Condominium
Aside from the major
Residences by Tribute
Communities
shopping centres, it’s the eclectic,
one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques
and cafés along Main Street that
give the area a unique vibe. Little
jewels like It’s The Cat’s Meow
Café, which claims to contain
more cat kitsch than you can
wag a tail at. In the cozy, quaint
little country-themed store, you
may order the house specialty, a
“cattaccino”.
As Markham has become more cosmopolitan, the
quality and variety of local dining choices have followed
suit. Jason Goodis is the owner of the popular Smash
Kitchen and Bar in Unionville. Markham born and raised,
Goodis has also seen major changes unfold. “We have a lot
of high-rises coming in, a lot of condominiums. I’m in a
good spot. Highway 7 is becoming the next Yonge Street
of Toronto.”
Markham residents also enjoy a wide collection of
independent retailers, like Peppertree Klassics that features
women’s fashions, footwear and accessories. Proprietor
Karen Piper has been 20 years in business on Main Street
North, and her all-time favourite labels include Renaur,
NEIGHBOURHOOD CULTURE
Photos opposite page: King Square Mall; Unity Festival.
Photos left and top: Signature Condominium Collection by Remington
Group; Smash Kitchen and Bar; Rouge Park; nearby historic Unionville;
Farmer’s Market, Pan American Centre; Downtown Markham project
by Remington Group.
Tribal, Sandwich and Lana Lee
Sportswear.
Markham has managed to
retain much of its agricultural
charm through popular farm
markets and pick-your-own
locations. Local favourites like
Whittamore’s Farm, a large, 220acre fruit and vegetable farm
nestled beside the Rouge River
Valley, offers a variety of family
activities during the year.
On track for the 2015 Pan
American Games, Markham’s newly-built Pan Am Centre will serve as a badminton, table tennis and water polo
facility located in Downtown Markham. The facility
includes an Olympic-sized pool and a triple gymnasium
with a warm-up hall, each with seating for up to 2,000
spectators.
Markham is also endowed with one of the GTA’s
greatest natural assets. The Rouge River Valley, with the
river’s twin tributaries, winds its way through Markham.
Beginning in the Oak Ridges Moraine, Rouge Park is
the largest urban park in North America. This is a truly
modern day community, where agrarian meets urbane,
and cosmopolitan meets countryside.
CONDO ELITE S P R I N G
| 7
MARKET INFO
aspen ridge’s studio
&
studio2
MOVE IN THIS YEAR TO ASPEN RIDGE’S
STUDIO COMMUNITY
IN DOWNTOWN TORONTO
T
oronto’s cultural mecca
around OCAD University and the Art Gallery
of Ontario is taking on
new architectural vigour as Aspen Ridge’s STUDIO condominium community rises. Progress is
so far along that purchasers can
look forward to moving in this
year, with occupancies beginning from late summer through
the fall. And what a residence
these owners will come home to!
Enhancing the neighbourhood
with an intriguing marriage of
the past and the future, Les Klein,
principal architect at Quadrangle Architects, came up with a
unique exterior that defies the ordinary. Two nine-storey podiums
that reflect the historic warehouse
structures in the area will give
rise to two dramatic avant-garde
towers. Imagine stacked rhombus shapes sporting balconies of
varying depths. The design is truly a work of art!
Amenities by Mike Niven of
Mike Niven Interior Design create
sophisticated surroundings that
nurture socializing and personal
pampering. “WE” amenities encourage getting together
with family, friends and neighbours in the media lounge,
party room, billiards room and dining room complete
with kitchen. Some of these chic areas offer access to the
sixth-floor roof terrace. When it comes to unwinding, the
condominium’s “ME” spaces include a steam room, hot
tub, yoga lounge, winter lounge and exercise facilities with
massive floor-to-ceiling windows.
Luxury sets the scene in the suites, with 9-foot ceiling
heights accenting their spaciousness, and a balcony or
terrace (as per plan) offering a glorious outdoor area.
Buyers have the choice of Torlys® engineered wood floor
8 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
SHOPPING
FOR A GREAT
NEW HOME
IN 2015?
or Torlys Smart Floor for beauty
and practicality. Those who love to
cook will appreciate the kitchens
in these suites, which include
Miele appliances, the choice of
rich granite or CaesarStone
countertops, a ceramic backsplash
and Hansgrohe faucets.
All of this can be yours in
one of Toronto’s best locations.
The STUDIO and STUDIO 2
community is situated south of
Richmond Street on Duncan
Street, so many buyers are professionals who work in the
Financial District, at the hospitals
along University Avenue, or the
downtown campus of U of T.
Steps away, STUDIO residents
will be able to access the PATH
System, King and Queen subways,
theatres, galleries, museums, restaurants and nightlife hotspots.
Suites in STUDIO 1 range
from 625 to 1,294 square feet
and start from $394,990; in
STUDIO 2 from 495 to 1,357
square feet, from $371,990. For a
limited time, receive 1 year of free
maintenance. You can also take
advantage of Aspen Ridge’s easy
deposit payment of program: 5 per cent with your offer,
another 5 per cent in 90 days and the final 5 per cent on
occupancy.
Founded in 1992, Aspen Ridge is a family-ownedand-operated firm that has grown into one of the most
respected and successful companies in the GTA.
Visit the STUDIO presentation centre and model suite at
25 Nelson Street (southeast of Duncan and Nelson)
every day except Friday, from noon to 6 p.m.
Call 647-35ASPEN (352-7736) or check out
www.STUDIOcondos.ca.
laura calder’s sensuous toronto
ARTS & CULTURE
Laura Calder’s Sensuous Toronto:
eats, artistry & ambience
BY LAURA KEELER-LAVIN
I
n Laura Calder’s latest cookbook, The Paris Express, the focus is on simple French
faire with a whimsical twist. She encourages readers to adopt a French mindset, to
slow down and savour the experience of cooking. If you’re already familiar with
Calder, then you know that she applies this mindset to all aspects
of life, and not just her cooking.
In a recent chat wtih Condo Elite, Ms. Calder expressed a desire to lead
a sensuous life, in which she seeks out beauty, delight and humanity in the
every day. Whether it’s a masterfully made cocktail, sumptuous paper
goods, or a quiet place of reflection, Calder favours locations and goods
with authenticity, heart and soul.
We asked Calder for her top go-to spots when she wants to indulge
her senses and get inspired.
Toronto Temperance Society on College Street. Because the
cocktails are masterfully made and the ambiance is oldschool. I always go before the crowds when it’s perfectly
quiet and the bar is empty.
Weslodge on King. One of my favourite restaurants because
the food is good and the ambiance is one of comfort.
Designed as a modern saloon, the décor is a mix of rich
velvets, dark woods and stately portraits. Many of their
cocktail ingredients, like their barrel-aged negroni, are
made in house.
The Paper Place on Queen West. Because the paper
products are so exquisite to look at, many of them textured
reminiscent of fabrics.
The Junction, Dundas West. Wandering through the fleamarket and recycling shops of the Junction for old things to
make new again. Chatting up the antique dealers I learn
the storied past of my new treasures.
Photos:
Weslodge Restaurant;
The Paper Place
Thomas Lavers in Kensington
Market. Because they make and
sell grandma-worthy pickles and
preserves, even house-made ginger
beer! The shop is reminiscent of an
old school diner and the staff are eager to
discuss their offerings and share recipe ideas.
Vince Gasparro’s Quality Meats at Bloor and Ossington.
Because the guys behind the counter are having so much
fun and the customer service is unusually human and jovial.
The meats are great and made even better by the feel-good
factor of the shop.
Schmaltz Appetizing on Dupont. Because of the smoked
salmon, which is glistening and glorious. Make sure it’s
very, very thinly sliced - when it is, it’s out of this world. I
eat it on potato rösti with a spoonful of caviar on special
occasions.
The Art Gallery of Ontario, on Dundas St. West. Because
it’s more than a museum, I go there not just for the
collections but for the serenity of the building itself. For
me, the views from the windows as you walk down the
magnificent staircases are the very quintessence of Toronto.
The Labyrinth behind the Eaton Centre. The labyrinth is a
symbol of our journey through life; unlike a maze it has no
dead ends. The action of walking the path can be quite
meditative. It’s a quick (free!) way to escape the din of
downtown and recapture peace of mind.
Photos top to bottotm:
The Art Gallery of Ontario; Ms. Laura Calder;
Toronto Termperance Society
CONDO ELITE S P R I N G
| 9
DESIGN
sabrina albanese
–
s pa c e s av v y d e c o r t i p s
Ever-stylish
interior
designer
Sabrina
Albanese
shares her
space savvy
design tips
for bold
decorating.
We first featured Sabrina
Albanese’s work in our
holiday issue with an
upscale and elegant
Yorkville condo she
designed. Sabrina
Albanese is back, this
time showcasing her
playful side, in Aspen
Ridge’s Kettle Lakes Club
25’ Townhomes. This
townhome is designed
with family in mind:
two bedrooms for the
kids and a basement
with a rec room and
entertainment area.
Sabrina’s layering of bold
colour and rich textures
creates an ultra modern
and hip family home. This
is the perfect example
of how to have fun with
your décor while keeping
practical elements, like
storage, in mind.
10 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
SPACE SAVVY
BY LAURA KEELER-LAVIN
sabrina albanese
Built in headboard: An
upholstered headboard is a
simple way to add texture to
your bedroom. Running floor
to ceiling, with a subtle ombré
colour scheme, this built in
headboard gives the room a
quiet grandeur.
Modular shelving: Modular units are versatile
and visually interesting. Easily customizable and
often wall mounted, modular shelving is a great
way to display cherished objects without taking
up precious floor space. Play around with the
configuration to add geometric flair like this zig
zag pattern.
–
s pa c e s av v y d e c o r t i p s
DESIGN
Unexpected Accents: A patterned wallpaper
or whimsical chair can inject personality and
style into any room.
Use room dividers in place of walls: Dividers
allow you to visually separate spaces, like
living and dining room, without the bulk of a
wall. The divider featured here works double
time separating the space while allowing light
and air to flow through - it doesn’t hurt that it
also looks like a piece of art!
Keep the same flooring throughout your home: Think of
flooring as the backdrop to your furniture. Using the same
flooring will unify your space and make it appear larger.
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 11
EXPLORE
d e b b i e t r av i s
–
g o u r m e n t t u s c a n r e t r e at
food
lovers
getaway
’
A Gourmet Tuscan Country Inn Retreat
with Debbie Travis
BY MIJANA GERMANSKI
EDITED BY BONI WAGNER-STAFFORD
Imagine looking over rolling hills and wheat fields, medieval farmhouses,
olive groves, and vineyards as far as the eye can see. South of Florence lies the
hilltop town of Montepulciano – a Tuscan gem whose surroundings have not
changed in over 400 years. When Debbie Travis first discovered Tuscany over
15 years ago, she knew right away that this place would become very special
to her. What was once a 13th century watch tower, then a huge
farm, is now Travis’ own newly-renovated lavish villa with
over 100 acres of private land.
Inset photos by Ealanta Photography
12 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
d e b b i e t r av i s
For the past 5 years, Travis
has been sharing her Tuscan
passion by inviting women
to travel ‘across the pond’
and experience a week of
relaxation, self-rediscovery
and reflection. The Girls’
Getaway Retreat brings together like-minded women
who embark on a unique journey filled with memorable
hikes, yoga sessions, cooking classes, country bike rides,
inspirational speakers, visits to some of the most spectacular wineries, local restaurants and more. These ladies
discover their inner sanctuary and leave rejuvenated and
refreshed.
Now the home-styling design diva has decided to
take things a step further with Debbie Travis’ Gourmet
Week. Come 2016, culinary admirers, both ladies and
gentlemen, are invited to experience the latest chapter in
the retreat series. Couples, singles, friends, mothers and
daughters will all be able to embrace Tuscany in a luxurious 5 star accommodation, with 14 suites, an infinity
pool, lavender fields, olive groves, and a courtyard of ancient pomegranate trees. For these newly-dubbed “Tuscanites”, the next 7 days will revolve around sampling
and drinking copious amounts of wine and eating local,
organic, gourmet food. Guests will visit Debbie’s selection of must-taste restaurants, from Michelin starred to
local hidden gems such as Ristorante 13 Gobbi, which
lies within the walls of a nearby medieval castle and
serves famous fettuccini mixed in a giant cheese wheel.
The next day, the chefs who cooked for the guests in their
restaurants will come to Debbie’s kitchen and teach her
–
EXPLORE
CONDO ELITE
EXCLUSIVE
Debbie’s love of wine
has linked her with
Pillitteri Estates Winery
in Niagara-On-The-Lake,
Ontario. Together they have
created wonderful wines
guests how to re-create the very
under the Debbie Travis
label that will be
dishes they had the night before.
launched in Fall
“Tuscany is all about the long
2015!
table and dining with a large group of
Photos above from left to right:
Making pasta by Suzanne Simons;
Debbie Travis with Girls’ Getaway
Retreat by Ealanta Photography
family and friends,” says Travis, “everything you eat here is organic, in season and
produced locally – something that many of us in North
America are not used to.” When her guests leave, Debbie
hopes that they will have a new appreciation for gourmet
food, incredible wines, sustainable farming and especially for Debbie’s own organic extra virgin olive oil! Plus, of
course, incredible memories of their time with Debbie…
under the Tuscan sun.
For more information about the gourmet getaway, please
visit: Debbie Travis’s Tuscan Getaways:
www.tuscangetaway.com
Debbie Travis’s Tuscan Getaways Facebook:
www.facebook.com/DebbieTravisTuscanGetaway
Twitter: @Debbie_Travis
Debbie’s
Top 3 Wine Selections
(All available at LCBO and SAQ)
Casanova di Neri Brunello
di Montalcino 2009
$59.00
g o u r m e n t t u s c a n r e t r e at
A top producer consistently scoring amongst
the best Brunellos, this full-bodied red is
fabulous for any occasion or fancy dinner.
Poliziano Vino Nobile di
Montepulciano 2010
$30.00
A very solid choice from one of the best
producers in Montepulciano, Debbie loves
to serve this as a casual dinner wine.
Attems Pinot Grigio 2012
$21.25
Produced by Frescobaldi, one of Italy’s
most prolific producers with vineyards in
almost every region, this is a lovely light
and easy white wine for all occasions.
Especially lunch.
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 13
DESIGN
i n t e r v i e w w i t h m o n ta n a l a b e l l e
meet
interior designer
montana
labelle
BY MIJANA GERMANSKI
Montana Labelle has established herself as one to watch in the
Canadian design community by transforming interiors into timeless
environments for modern living. Since the launch of her own design
and lifestyle firm in 2013, she has garnered a tremendous following in
the city and clients continue to seek her out. Labelle’s influence spans
from residential designs to commercial projects as well as custom
furniture design.
Condo Elite got a chance to dive even further into her fashioninfluenced perspective on luxurious interior style.
14 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
i n t e r v i e w w i t h m o n ta n a l a b e l l e
Q
purchase a lot of smaller furniture items,
making the space feel even smaller and
cluttered. Throwing away traditional rules
for “smaller” interiors is the best way of
achieving success. People shouldn’t be
afraid of statement furniture and art which
I think is very important in a condo. Larger pieces are visually more pleasing to the
eye with the end result feeling a lot more
grand – one of my favourite tricks. Finally,
uncovered windows will draw the outside
in and gives tremendous illusion of space
and depth.
What are your go-to steps when a
client first approaches you to work on
their space?
I always start off a project by getting to
know the client on a personal level; from
their likes, dislikes, favourite clothing designer, to their vacation spots, you name it.
This helps me to understand more about
the client’s dream interior. From there, we
begin sourcing a few key pieces (typically
from vintage websites such as 1stdibs.com)
to become the stand-out elements of the
space. These stand-out elements usually become the inspiration for the entire project.
Q
You recently finished a project with The Remington
Group. How did you plan out their model suites?
The Remington Group model suite was one of my favourite projects to date. With free reign on finish and
furniture selections, I was really able to have fun and infuse the space with tremendous personality and drama.
We began the project by putting together an overall idea
board of colours and finishes that I envisioned would
look great in the space. I sourced a pair of incredible
black marble block side tables which became the inspiration for the rest of the interior. Nestled in the living
room, the texture, style and colour of these side tables
became the concept that drove the whole the project.
Q
How do you incorporate condo-friendly techniques
when designing the interior of these spaces?
I try to approach every space with the same sense of
scale, colour and texture. Often clients with condos
DESIGN
Q
How do you address what can be a typical challenge
in condos, which is limited space?
The most difficult aspect of dealing with limited space
is making it feel luxurious. Adding large mirrors, for
example, adds an incredible element of drama and extravagance. Add contrasting colours to key accents like
doors. I like to create visual interest that draws the eyes
up, which makes the ceiling appear higher and the space
larger.
Q
What current trends have caught your attention?
The use of rich and opulent textures in unexpected places is one of my favourite techniques for making
a space feel tremendously luxurious. I also love the retro
nod to the 1970’s that we’re seeing in many interiors today.
For more information, please visit www.montanalabelle.com
Remington Group Inc. www.remingtongroupinc.com
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 15
MARKET INFO
the colours of emerald city
CHARM MODEL SUITE A BREATH OF FRESH AIR AT
EMERALD CITY
E
merald City in North York
has proven immediately
successful — the first
two condomi niums
have been registered, and the
third, Dream Tower, is already
in occupancy. Now, the second
phase, The Colours of Emerald
City, is about to launch. The
appeal of this multi-faceted
neighbourhood includes a stellar
location close to Fairview Mall
and the Sheppard subway, striking contemporary architecture,
remarkable amenities, and
suite designs that appeal to the
spectrum of new home buyers.
To fully appreciate Emerald
City Developments’ third phase,
attention to creating outstanding
living spaces, you can tour the
approximately 861 sq. ft. twobedroom model suite, The Charm, in Dream Tower.
An actual suite for sale in the condominium,
The Charm was furnished and staged by Joan Stirling
of Stirling Home Studio to make the most of the
contemporary WZMH Architects-designed and appointed
layout. “We envisioned the buyer of this suite as someone
who appreciates modern décor with a touch of
traditional,” Stirling says. “Nowadays, that covers the
sensibilities of purchasers of all ages. They like classic
styling with a twist. We are finding that this model is
appealing to sophisticated young couples and emptynesters who are downsizing in square footage.”
As you round the corner from the foyer to the
natural light-filled main living area in The Charm, her
approach makes its impact immediately. “The white
Pasha chairs are a great example,” Stirling says. “Their
design is classic, but these are done in polycarbonate. It’s
a fun look.” She points out that the black lamp on the
credenza follows suit. “Again, the styling is traditional,
but the material is plastic. This adds a touch of quirkiness
to the surroundings.” To weave sophistication through
this space, she added silk cushions and velvet chairs that
are more sumptuous.
The white colour palette contrasts with the dark
wood flooring and occasional injection of black in the
furnishings and accessories. “By placing a glass dining
16 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
table in the living area, we helped
to keep the look airy,” Stirling
explains, “and the chrome in
the small living room tables
adds sparkle. Using two tables
instead of one larger coffee table
is popular practice today.” Two
walls of windows frame the
living area with ever-changing
views, and the balcony that
spans one of those walls invites
interaction with the outdoors.
Situated at opposite ends
of the suite, both bedrooms
also welcome natural light from
large windows. Whites, greys
and touches of black create
beautifully calming havens of
relaxation in the bedrooms,
while the juxtaposition of
traditional and modern carry
through the theme. “In one, we
hung a collage of mirrors in traditional black frames,
then added modern bedding and industrial lamps on
the side tables,” Stirling says.
“Everything we chose for the Charm accentuates
the functionality of the layout,” she continues. “Buyers
appreciate the full-size stainless steel appliances in the
kitchen. Wood flooring throughout, except for the
bedrooms and baths, increases the value in these wellappointed suites.”
Located near Sheppard Avenue and Don Mills Road,
the Emerald City neighbourhood features the Parkway
Forest Community Centre slated to open later this year.
Among its amenities will be a gymnasium, YMCA-run
daycare, rooftop garden, outdoor pool and pavilion.
Another element that sets this community apart is the
public art installation by renowned Canadian novelist
and visual artist Douglas Coupland, incorporating a
series of brightly coloured massive cones and seven
smaller cylinders.
Prices for the Charm start at $411,900.
Visit the Emerald City Presentation Centre TODAY at the
southeast corner of Don Mills Road and Sheppard Avenue.
Hours are Monday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday
and Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. To find out more, register at
www.emeraldcitylife.ca or call 416-492-0001.
the canadian museum of human rights
With ambitions to
nurture a humane
and peaceful world,
and inspire people to
stand up for what’s
right in society, the new
Canadian Museum of
Human Rights is destined
to gain icon status on the
world’s cultural museum
scene as it attracts visitors
to Winnipeg, a city
known for its cultural
diversity and location in
the geographic centre of
North America.
EXCITING NEWS
the canadian
museum
of human
rights
cide to a hopeful, civilized
world. Unique in concept,
the museum’s precious collection consists of personBY TOBY SALTZMAN
al stories peppered with
cultural, philosophical and
political ideas – rather than
artifacts – all meant to trigger a visitor’s sense of compassion and empathy for
others.
Exhibit designer Ralph
Appelbaum describes it as
a “museum of conscience,”
akin to “visiting an ethical
spa” for “a moral tune-up”
and sensitivity training to
build a better civilization.
The galleries explore complex concepts and themes
from multiple perspecNew Mexico-based architives using film, theatre
tect Antoine Predock was
and multi-sensory stations
inspired by the museum’s
designed to engage interlocation near the Forks, the
action. Stories of people
meeting point of the Red
who have made a difand Assiniboine rivers, and
ference — f rom Nelson
a place of consensus for First
Mandela to Malala YouNations leaders. He envis a f z a i t o n o t e w o r t hy
sioned oppressed cultures
Canadians — aim to inconnected to the earth,
Photo: Toby Saltzman
Illustrations: The Canadian Museum of Human Rights website
spire teens and y ou n g
moving from darkness to
adults to take action
light. The exterior architecagainst cruelty and injustice. The provocative disture evokes a mountain, clad in stone and wrapped by a
plays cover Aboriginal traditions, perspectives and
glass cloud (or coddled by a silver dove of peace) whose
concepts of humanity and responsibility, and the roles
pinnacle soars to the light.
of secrecy and denial in global atrocities, including
The interior gives the sensation of climbing a mounthe Holocaust, the Ukrainian Holodomor as well as
tain of human rights issues toward the lofty ideal of ingenocides in Armenia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Srebrenspiring change. From the lowest level - which is tinged
ica in Bosnia.
in earthy colours – visitors explore the museum via a
Inspiring to the hilt, CMHR brings to mind the sayramp clad in sheets of glowing alabaster that eventually
ing: “He who saves one person saves a community of
slopes to a light-filled atrium where a serene “Garden of
people.”
Contemplation,” artfully designed with reflecting ponds
fringed by basalt boulders, leads to the Tower of Hope.
Looking up at the atrium, the supporting, spiraling
For information visit www.humanrights.ca,
beams evoke humanity spiraling above evil and genowww.tourismwinnipeg.com
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 17
EXPERT ADVICE
moving expert
5 ways to make
moving a cleaner,
greener process
BY CHUCK RESNICK
Protecting the environment is an important concern for consumers and businesses
alike, but many don’t realize that moving can have a negative
impact on the environment.
WASTE caused
by the moving
process not
only stems
from packing
supplies, but also
from the waste
accumulated
over many years
within a home or
office. Both
sources can be
extremely taxing
on the environment
if not properly
managed.
CHUCK RESNICK is
Vice President, Marketing
& Operations at Two Men
And A Truck – Canada
All TWO MEN AND A
TRUCK branches in Canada
offer a variety of storage
boxes and packing supplies
suitable for storing all your
decorative treasures. Visit
www.twomen.ca for a
location near you.
18 | S PRING
12
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CONDO ELITE
estions on
some sugg
5
LIVE AT
STUDIO
BE
DOWNTOWN
SUITES FROM THE
300 S
’
$
5%
DOWN
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
SUMMER 2015
CLOSINGS
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
EARLY 2015 CLOSINGS
PLUS
ONE
YEAR
FREE
MAINTENANCE FEE
OFFER VALID ON
ALL REMAINING SUITES.
Nelson St.
University Ave.
Simcoe St.
Duncan St.
Spadina St.
Richmond St.
PRESENTATION CENTRE
Adelaide St.
Presentation Centre: 25 Nelson Street, Toronto
Brokers Protected, Limited Time offer. See Sales Rep for full details. Prices, Specifications and programs are subject to change without notice. Illustrations are artists concept. E & O.E.
*Provided the purchaser completes the transaction on the contemplated unit transfer date the purchaser shall receive a credit on the statement of adjustment in the amount equal to
12 monthly common expense fees relating to the unit and any parking or storage applicable. Deposit 5% down and 10% due on occupancy.
studiocondos.ca • 647.352.7736
incredible,
affordable
art from
GINA GODFREY
BY MIJANA GERMANSKI
EDITED BY BONI WAGNER-STAFFORD
PHOTOS BY CINTAR IMAGING
G
ina Godfrey’s artistic roots run deep in
Toronto. Central Tech High School and
the Ontario College of Art and Design
(OCAD) helped produce this remarkable
contemporary pop artist, whose works are
now on international display in Shanghai, Israel, and
throughout North America.
Despite the broad reach, or perhaps because of it,
Godfrey is working to fill a void in the consumer art
marketplace: affordable art. “Most people want to have
artwork they can enjoy but don’t want to bust the piggybank to buy it,” Godfrey says. “This is where I come
in. My work is contemporary, edgy, fun and interesting.
I push the boundaries of the medium. There is life and
energy to my work and my clients appreciate the play-
fulness in visual elements, content and colour as well as
good value for their money.”
“Popography” is her self-described artistic style,
and she admits to being influenced by Andy Warhol’s
pop artistry. While studying at OCADU, a printmaking
course involved daily production of 25 prints in etching,
lino-cut or silk-screen printing. “The latter intrigued me.
We were sent to photocopy an image on a copier making
each copy lighter or darker until you got the effect you
wanted. I realized I was learning Warhol’s technique. It
was clean, modern, and fun.”
Learning Warhol’s techniques and producing work
through silkscreen has led Godfrey into the world of
giclée. Instead of a brush, she began to use a melange
of techno-fusion, blending digital photography, fine art
BY ANDREA PEARCE
20 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
Opposite page: See Weed; Centre, top to bottom: Circles; Living Dangerously; Above: Rice Cakes Blow
principles and pop expressionism. Today, she generates
images from high resolution digital scans, prints them
with archival quality inks onto canvas or water-colour
paper.
“I start with an image that really appeals to me.
Magazines are a great source. I will pick a small portion
of the colour or design from a certain detail. I then
join it with other images or details using markers
to enhance the entire look of the piece. These mixed
images are scanned into a computer where it will go
through a number of changes with size, contrast, filters,
hues, and intensity. It may not stop there, as I would
try to experiment with 3 or 4 layers of other digital
techniques, such as making it look more watercolour,
coloured pencil or cut out.”
Giclée provides better colour accuracy than other
means of reproduction, and the inks are guaranteed to
remain colourfast for at least 200 years. Godfrey adds
good quality framing, then limits print runs for each
piece to 10.
“I have specifically geared my art to the midmarket,” Godfrey explains. “There is not a lot of quality
art around especially as large at 48” x 48” and reasonably
priced. A 48”x 48” is $2,100. Works are also available
in 36” x 36” and 18” x 18” and equally as well-priced,
which means that Godfrey’s work enables more people
to become collectors of her incredible, affordable art!
For more information, please visit www.ginagodfrey.com
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 21
EXPERT ADVICE
condo expert
downsize
and maximize!
BY MARK COHEN
AND
EDITED BY BONI WAGNER-STAFFORD
See if this sounds familiar. You spend your weekends cleaning the big house, and doing yard work. During the
week you juggle shovelling the driveway, taking out the garbage, and doing emergency repairs. Your kids have
left home, their rooms sitting empty. You’d like to take a long vacation but you worry about who will take care
of your house while you’re away.
V
ariations of this scenario are playing out all over
clean, and drastically reduced maintenance and upkeep
the GTA as boomer couples come to realize it may
requirements. Plus, you will have the peace of mind
be time to downsize into a condo or townhome.
that comes with knowing your monthly maintenance
It’s a big decision, to be sure, but I have helped many
fee takes care of all of the above! You will have more
empty nesters make this transition before. Let me show
personal freedom than ever before and time to yourself
you the bright side of downsizing!
to enjoy life. And don’t forget all of your condo’s building
First let’s address the word “downsize”. Really, condos
amenities. This may include swimming pools, fitness
are designed to “maximize” space and ensure no square
rooms, rooftop patios, and movie screening rooms just
foot is wasted. There are larger condo/townhome units
to name a few. Today’s condo amenities read like a dream
on the market and more in development, to address this
list of must-haves without the upkeep, with something
market. With units from 900 - 3000 square feet, every
for everyone.
preference is met.
Often condo living brings you closer to the core of
Preparing for the move out of the large home
the city centre, with easier access to fantastic dining,
involves de-cluttering. Selling, donating or tossing items
shopping, culture, and entertainment options.
that are no longer of use takes time and effort, true, but
Now put down the magazine and go call your realtor
the exercise is almost always cathartic and liberating.
so you can begin the search for the perfect condo!
Who doesn’t like shopping for new furniture?
There is a lot of choice for you in condo-sized
Condo Elite Quick
furniture and appliances. Murphy wall beds,
Links To Larger Si
ze Condo/Towns
ASPEN RIDGE
stacking washer/dryer units, and multi-purpose
Studio on Richmon
PURE PLAZA
cabinetry all help you to live more efficiently
Suites up to 1350 d
The Tower – Suite
and maximize your condo living area. But you’ll
sq. ft.
s up to 1140 sq.ft.
Kettle Lakes Club
King West – Suite
be surprised how little you actually need to
on Bayview
s
Townhomes up to
Townhomes up to up to 1170 sq.ft.
2750 sq. ft.
rely on finding compact pieces, because there’s
1230 sq.ft.
Visit aspenridgeh
Visit pureplaza.co
more space in these efficient units than you
omes.com
m
for more informa
for more informa
tion
tion
might think. And with designers trending on
ELAD
decorating condos with larger luxurious pieces
Emerald City by Ela
to give a glamorous feel, the options are endless.
d – Suites up to 10
09 sq.ft.
Dream Tower by
Elad – Suites up
The real benefit of condo living is the extra
to 1209 sq.ft
Visit emeraldcityli
fe.ca for more inf
time you’ll suddenly find in your day-to-day
ormation
TRIBUTE
life. No more yard to contend with, no eaves to
Mark Cohen is founding partner of The Condo Store
Marketing Systems, a company which provides
consulting services as well as marketing, selling and
procuring real estate for all segments of the industry.
condostorecanada.com
22 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
The Varley
Suites up to 2471
sq. ft
Canterbur y Town
s
Units up to 2055
sq.ft
Visit tributecommu
nities.com
for more informa
tion
DANIELS
Highpark Condom
iniums
Suites up to 910
sq.ft
One Park Place So
Suites up to 852 uth Tower
sq
Towns up to 1547 . ft. and
sq.ft.
Visit danielshomes
.ca for more
information
legal expert
EXPERT ADVICE
the savvy condo buyer:
NEGOTIATING NEW-BUILD SALES AGREEMENTS
BY MARTIN RUMACK, B.A., L.L.B.
W
hen it comes time
to buy a newly
constructed condominium, having a good real estate
lawyer to review your purchase
and sale agreement makes a lot of
sense. There are special elements in
new-build condo sales agreements
that aren’t found in other resale
agreements, and your lawyer can
help you negotiate your way through
them.
Condominium builders’ Agreements of Purchase and Sales have
been tailored to the specific development and drafted by the builders’
lawyers. Even a “standard” agreement from a specific builder is likely
only standard for one development –
an agreement from the same builder
for a different project may look completely different.
Always have a builder’s form
of Agreement of Purchase and Sale
reviewed in a timely manner by a
lawyer experienced in condominium
purchases, if possible, before you
sign an offer. You have 10 days to
withdraw from the deal if you change
your mind.
New condo developments, quite reasonably, require unique
elements. For example, developers will often require clauses that
allow the builder to:
•
Substitute and change materials and finishes
•
Modify the unit size, within limits, or build a unit in the reverse
image from plans the buyer may have seen, and
•
Use discretion in determining on which floor the unit will be
located, and the location and level of parking and locker units.
There are also unique clauses related to costs, and your lawyer
can help you remove, or negotiate a cap to, these costs. Items
can include:
•
•
•
•
•
Contribution to the Reserve Fund (often 1 to 3 months’ contribution)
Occupancy fees, including interest on monies owing to the
building, estimated monthly common expenses, and portion of
estimated property taxes for the Interim Occupancy Period
All utility costs (electricity, gas, energy and water), including
metre installation/connection costs starting from the agreed
occupancy date
Law Society of Upper Canada transaction levy payable by the
builder’s lawyer
Excess deposit insurance, realty taxes, lot levies, development
and education charges, park donation levies
•
•
Sales tax on appliances included in the deal
Tarion enrolment fee, as required under the Ontario New Home
Warranty Program
•
Legal fees incurred by the builder associated with construction
financing
• Administrative charges for things like
Builder conditions that can delay the start of construction:
• NSF cheques
• Enough sales to satisfy the builder and the builder’s
• Public art contribution fees
lender
• Builder’s lawyer’s fees, and costs for
• Rezoning applications approved by municipality, and
electronic registration, and
• Securing financing for the development
• Taxes imposed or increased by
federal, provincial, or municipal
governments.
For more information contact Martin Rumack
at [email protected]
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 23
BY IRIS BENAROIA
Stroll along Toronto’s most eclectic strip where the
cool quotient is turned firmly up to 11
THE VIBE:
Are you a fan of generic restaurants? Do you regard both art and cyclists with
derision? Then a home in West Queen West is not for you. Everyone else:
welcome! There’s a reason Vogue named it the world’s second-hippest ’hood after
Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa district. Toronto’s Art and Design district, which stretches
two kilometres along Queen from Bathurst to Gladstone, is dotted with more
than 300 boutiques, restaurants, cafés and galleries. The city’s artsy contingent
hangs here — just look for the tattoos, beards and yoga mats or find flocks of
them lolling on Ikat blankets and sipping kombucha in Trinity Bellwoods Park, a
37-acre patch that sports a rec centre, tennis courts, a leash-free “dog bowl” and
a weekly farmer’s market. WQW is also home to a large Portuguese community,
who raised their families here long before gentrification. In fact, there they are
together, the hipsters and historians, biting into a pasteis de nata (the Portuguese
tart with the bewitching bruléed crust) at old-school bakeries. Everyone
here just seems to get along, man.
FOOD FINDS:
The Drake Hotel: 1150 Queen St. W.
This culturally rich boutique hotel kicked off the
area’s gentrification when Jeff Stober opened it in
2004. Do cocktails above street level on the skyyard patio, or crack claws at the seasonal lobster
boil; enjoy sushi in the lounge or hit the café for
chicken and waffles wading in maple syrup and
cherry jam.
Terroni: 720 Queen St. W.
There’s a reason this indefatigable Italian eatery
still has dinner lineups, two decades and counting.
Popular with locals, Terroni arguably makes the
best pizza on the strip — thin, blistered crust
smeared with tom sauce and cheese for the
Margarita purist.
Smoque N’ Bones: 869 Queen St. W.
Imagine piled-high smoked pork slathered in
barbecue sauce on a spongy sesame bun, collard
greens, cornbread, creamy coleslaw and a
lengthy choice of bourbons to wash
it down. Enticed yet?
The County General: 936 Queen St. W.
Best bets: the fried chicken thigh sandwich
or hamburger that come balanced on a cutting
board highbrow/lowbrow style to echo the
establishment’s rustic woodsy interior. Parmesan
kale salad perks up the tastebuds.
Fresh: 894 Queen St. W.
Carnivores adore Ruth Tal’s contemporary Fresh
franchise as much as vegetarians. Tuck into a
peanut-y Buddha Bowl. Crunchy quinoa-coated
onion rings are outstanding. The ginger-spiked
Deep Immune smoothie will cure what ails.
It’s all GRK: 756 Queen St. W.
Enjoy juicy pork, chicken or lamb on a pita
slathered in tzatziki in a modern setting in this
much-needed addition on the strip, where Greek
food was poorly unrepresented. Call ahead for
take-out like the locals.
Milagro Cantina: 783 Queen St. W.
Tacos, burritos, guacamole, pulled pork, tequila
cocktails, stellar staff. Who’s making reservations?
SWEET STUFF:
.
ND: 1144 Queen Sat.nW
U
O
a
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SHOPGeneral Storee: a ceramic badnren’s
Drake ky goods lik modern chil ts
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Gimmic omingle with oming produ
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ic
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Strip
is shop
sh, is a
fetish, thle piggies styli
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your li over.
fun stop
St. W or
Queen
th
s: 883 hop hosts au om trendy
k
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ted
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and de children’s ev
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Clafouti: 915 Queen St. W.
Oui! This tiny French café is croissant heaven:
banana chocolate peanut butter, fig, cinnamon
brown sugar; a trendy “crookie” sees an Oreo
baked into the dough. A tuna niçoise sided with
Balzac’s coffee makes for a nice lunch.
Nadège: 780 Queen St. W.
The slick upstart patisserie boasts a Dwell-like
environment. A rainbow of macarons are both
artful and tasteful. Green tea matcha cake is a
dainty square of perfection. Classy carrot cake
wears a thin, sophisticated layer of icing, unlike
the popular cloying version.
LOCAL INTEL:
Name:
Elizabeth Christy
Occupation:
Coordinator, Ad
ministration and
Events, FASE,
U of T
Time in the ’hoo
d: Over 20 years
I love it here beca
use…
It ha
s everything tha
t is great, from pa
community centr
rks,
es and recreatio
nal programs to
amazing restaura
nts, independent
shops, grocery
stores and art ga
lleries. Add to all
of that some
pretty fantastic bo
rdering neighbo
urhoods, easy
access to the La
keshore and Ga
rdiner and Lake
Ontario.
What people do
Queen West…. n’t realize about West
We have an am
azing network of
neighbours, so
even though we
’re in the midst of
a downtown
district, it still ha
s a community fee
l.
My favourite spot
s
are….
Oyster Boy for oy
sters, beer and
chowder, and
Nadège for butte
r croissants. Trinit
y Bellwoods
Park is also prett
y fantastic.
Local Intel Photo Credit: Aubrey Kesper
The Lucky Penny General Store & Café:
189 Shaw St.
Pick up fresh flowers, organic produce, a croque
monsieur or a doughnut at this lovely old-timey
joint with side patio near Trinity Bellwoods Park.
Sweet Olenka’s: 1050 Queen St. W.
No need to travel to the original Etobicoke outpost
anymore for a fix of irresistible homemade ice
cream and confections. Salted caramel, cherry
chocolate, pistachio. Too many temptations to list.
One word: go.
✂ TEAR-RIFIC NEIGHBOURHOODS ✂
WEST QUEEN WEST
west queen west
HONOURABLE MENTIONS FOOD
AND DRINK:
Bolt, El Almacen, The Good Son, Sam James
Coffee Bar, The Bristol, Café Bernate, Oyster Boy,
Carmen, Fonda Lola, Nuit Social
EVERYTHING ELSE:
The Gladstone Hotel, Float, Brodawka & Friends,
Poppies, Museum of Contemporary Canadian
Art, Design Republic CB2, Gravity Pope, Artscape
Youngplace (a 75,000-square-foot cultural centre),
Helmutt’s Pet Supply, Japanese Paper Place,
Queen West Animal Hospital
✂ TEAR-RIFIC NEIGHBOURHOODS ✂
TEAR-RIFIC NEIGHBOURHOODS
amenities coming to the yonge
&
york mills hood
EXCITING NEWS
The Gupta Group will bring much
needed amenities to the
Yonge & York Mills community
Located at the northwest corner of Yonge St. and
York Mills Rd., the 266-space parking lot, managed by the
Toronto Transit Commission will be transformed into a half a
million sq. ft. mixed-use development including a 4-Star hotel,
luxury office condominiums and retail space. The site offers
direct access to the Yonge-University subway line.
C
under The Gupta Group umbrella, and is
onstruction on this Yonge-York
“This $300
spearheaded by the visionary leadership of
Mills site is slated to begin in 2016
million project will
entrepreneur Steve Gupta. Since 1979, The
with completion scheduled in 2019.
create
about
300
Gupta Group/Easton’s Group has cultivated
The Gupta Group/Easton’s Group
permanent jobs with extensive experience designing, building and
acquired the site, at 4050 Yonge Street, from
managing mixed-use developments across
thousands of man
Build Toronto in January of this year. “This
the GTA. The Gupta Group/Easton’s Group
hours from start to
acquisition is a major step forward for our
has grown into a major force in the hospitality
company,” says managing director Reetu
completion over
and service industry across Ontario and
Gupta. “The site is ideal for an ambitious
the course of three
beyond. Flagship hotel properties include
mixed-use development which will breathe
years,” said Steve
the industry’s renowned brands such as
new life into the entire neighbourhood, esGupta, Chairman
the Hilton, Marriott and Holiday Inn in
pecially because this property sits alongside
and CEO of The
diverse locations – from downtown Toronto
some of Toronto’s most pristine urban parks,
Gupta Group and
to Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Montreal and
the Don Valley Golf Course, and is minutes
Easton’s Group.
Peterborough. With a dynamic leadership
away from the Don Valley.”
team and an abiding passion for excellence,
As part of its commitment to sustainabilThe Gupta Group/Easton’s Group is aggressively expanity, The Gupta Group/Easton’s Group is giving 1.16 acres
ding to new locations with diverse offerings for the
of land at the site to local authorities for conservation
demanding business and leisure traveller. In the highly
purposes, helping preserve the area’s natural allure for
competitive hotel industry, The Gupta Group/Easton’s
future generations to enjoy.
Group’s core advantages are prime locations, premium
“The lush beauty and urban sophistication will
quality and superb service. Every Gupta Group/Easton’s
make this project a draw for professional office owners,
Group hotel is located to cater to the needs of its clientele
hotel guests and condo home owners,” Gupta said. “The
while being on the cutting edge of offering the best
Yonge-York Mills location is the perfect setting for
advantages to its guests.
urbanites looking to embrace the live-work-play lifestyle.
The company first entered the condominium market
We’re looking forward to building a mixed-use gateway
in 2012 with its successful King Blue project. Currently,
that introduces locals and visitors to a truly unique part
the company is developing Dundas Square Gardens and
of Toronto.”
will soon launch its newest condo project, The Rosedale
on Bloor, at 387 Bloor Street in Toronto.
ABOUT THE GUPTA GROUP AND
EASTON’S
GROUP
Look for our
The company recently rebranded
Visit: www.eastonsgroup.com
candid interview
with Chairman and
CEO Steve Gupta
in our
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG | 25
Summer Issue.
EXPLORE
g e n i u s g e taway s
–
a long weekend in new orleans
new
orleans
at The Roosevelt,Waldorf Astoria Hotel
BY MONIQUE CHARBONNEAU
CE’s BEST OF
NEW ORLEANS:
STAY:
Hotel photos courtesy of The Roosevelt, Waldorf Astoria, New Orleans.
Inset: Houmas House Plantation
T
he Roosevelt Hotel and the ground it stands on were once home to the
State Capitol and mansions of famed Louisianans of French and Spanish
descent. In 1893 the lavish Grunewald Hotel was built to replace the
Grunewald Hall performing arts centre. It was such a success that within
a decade the Bavarian-born owner, businessman Louis Grunewald, began buying
up adjoining property. At midnight on December 31, 1907, a 400-room, 14-story annex opened with pomp and ceremony. This is where the famous basement
nightclub, The Cave, kept revellers up all night dancing to Dixieland Jazz.
In 1923 new owners renamed it “The Roosevelt Hotel”, a name that stuck until it
became a Fairmont Hotel in 1965. Hurricane Katrina forced the closure of the hotel
in 2005, and it remained shuttered and under major renovation and restoration
until it’s unveiling in 2009, when both its name and many original architectural
features were returned to “The Roosevelt”, now a Waldorf Astoria hotel.
I learned all of this long after I made my reservation, but the moment
I had, I knew I’d made the right choice. I received a personal email from the
head concierge offering assistance with advance bookings of tours, dinner or spa
treatments. When I arrived at the hotel, the excellent service continued, and
whether I was in the lobby, the pool or my room I was not disappointed.
The heart of New Orleans culture, cuisine and entertainment are just steps
beyond The Roosevelt’s impressive brass doors. The French Quarter, Canal Street
and The River Walk are all within easy walking distance, as is the music of Preservation Hall.
A stay in New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without having a cocktail in the
famous Sazerac Bar, now located in The Roosevelt, where presidents and celebrities have visited over the decades. Bourbon Street is a must-see at least once (or
twice), but there is so much more to see and do.
26 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
The Roosevelt Hotel
132 Roosevelt Way
SHOP: The Riverwalk Outlet
The Shops At Canal Place
The Garden District
EAT: Café Amelie
912 Royal Street
Domenica
123 Baronne Street
Orleans Grapevine Wine
Bar & Bistro
720 Orleans Ave
VISIT: Houmas House Plantation
River Boat Cruise
stroll down to the docks at the bottom of Canal Street and
choose a boat!
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
LEARN: The National WWII Museum
WALK: The French Quarter
The Garden District
LISTEN: Preservation Hall
726 St. Peter Street
(all ages welcome)
COMING THIS SPRING
Ask about our
**
SUITES
FROM THE LOW
TOWNS
FROM THE MID
$200,000s $500,000s
Finally! Everything you’ve been looking for in the heart of the city has arrived!
The Bartholomew collection of condominium suites and traditional towns is redefining
downtown living. Smart designs, impeccable designer finishes, outstanding amenities,
and townhomes with private backyards – all just steps from a new 6-acre park,
aquatic centre, MLSE athletic grounds, schools, shopping, and dining. And, the TTC
is at your door. This is an extraordinary opportunity to own a new home in the awardwinning, world-leading Regent Park revitalization – In the heart of it all, you can have it all.
Exclusive Listing: CityLife Realty Ltd. Brokerage. Brokers Protected. Illustrations
are artist’s concepts. Prices and specifications are subject to change without
notice. E.&O.E. Reproduction in any form, without prior written permission of
The Daniels Corporation, is strictly prohibited. *Conditions apply, see sales
representative for full details. **Conditions apply. First Home Boost Program is
only available on a limited number of suites.
BOOST your down
payment from
5% to 15%…interest
and payment free!
DANIELSBARTHOLOMEW.COM
416.955.0559
TECH TALK
weird and wonderful gadgets
weird, wild and
wonderful
gadgets
Consider a more distinctive tech
toy this time around
BY MARC SALTZMAN
Lenovo Yoga Tablet 2 Pro
Tablets? Yawn. Televisions? Ho-hum. Smartphones? Meh.
Rather than picking up an
ordinary tech toy for yourself
or a loved one, consider
a more unique – quirky –
gadget this time around.
In other words, trade the
predictable and practical for
kitschy and cool.
28 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
A few recommendations:
HOT TRACKS
Your guests will do a double-take when they see
ThinkGeek’s Cup of Mojo ($29.99), a wireless speaker
that looks like a small coffee mug. Simply pair your
favourite Bluetooth-enabled music device – such as a
smartphone, tablet or laptop – and you’ll hear your tunes
streaming (not steaming!) out of the top. Available in one
of four colours, this mug-shaped speaker has a handle
(with integrated Carabiner clip) to carry it around, extra
bass for a fuller sound and built-in rechargeable lithiumion battery that lasts for up to 4 hours of play (microUSB
charging cable included).
weird and wonderful gadgets
TECH TALK
Left to Right: Philips Wake-up Light, Mimo Baby
PROJECT YOURSELF
The Lenovo Yoga Tablet 2 Pro
($549.99) is the first tablet with a
built-in projector. Press a button on
the side and you can beam whatever
is on your tablet, such as a movie
or TV show, onto a nearby wall or
screen (up to 50-odd inches). Built
for entertainment buffs, this 13inch Android 4.4 (“Kit Kat”) tablet
also features 8 watts of JBL sound
(including front-facing stereo
speakers and a subwoofer) and
offers up to an industry-leading 15
hours of battery life. Along with two
cameras – a rear-facing 8-megapixel
and a front-facing 1.6-megapixel
lens – this tab offers expandable
memory via a microSD card under
the kickstand.
RISE AND SHINE
Why wake up to that annoying
alarm clock when you can start
your day with soft, natural light?
Simulating an increasingly bright
sunrise, the Philips Wake-Up Light
($89.99) replaces that startling
buzzer with an alternative to get you
out of bed on the right foot. Your
room gets brighter over a 30-minute
period to nudge you out of sleep,
complimented by singing birds or
other natural sounds that increases
in volume, as well. The uniquelooking Philips Wake-Up Light can
also be used as bedside lamp for
reading.
CRIB CARE
And now for something completely
different: the Mimo Baby ($199.99
for Starter Kit) is a small onesie
with a turtle-shaped sensor that
sends information to a parent’s (or
babysitter’s) phone or tablet: if the
baby is asleep or awake, the position
he or she is lying (on its back or
tummy), how well it’s breathing,
body temperature, and more. A
partnership between Intel and
Edison, Mimo Baby was designed
to give (neurotic?) parents some
peace of mind while their little one
is alone in their crib. Three machinewashable onesies are included in the
Starter Kit.
ThinkGeek’s Cup of Mojo Speaker Mug
an alarm clock of sorts, so you can
start the day off with your favourite
tunes. Or play lullabies in a child’s
room, and you can later turn off the
light and music without disturbing
your little one.
Follow Marc on Twitter:
@marc_saltzman
MiPow PlayBulb
BRIGHT IDEA
The PlayBulb from MiPow (from
$79.99) is a Bluetooth-enabled light
bulb with a twist. Not only can you
control this LED bulb wirelessly via
a free smartphone or tablet app –
including a dimmer and timer – but
it’s a speaker that can play music
from your Bluetooth device up to
35 feet away. You can combine the
features, too, such as setting the bulb
and speaker to turn on in the AM, as
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 29
EXPLORE
a ta s t e o f s w i t z e r l a n d
a taste of
switzerland
BY TOBY SALTZMAN
Pop! Snap! Crackling fire engulfed the woodpile,
reaching Boogg’s plump body. Costumed horsemen
circled round him, hooves thundering as rising
flames licked Boogg’s smiley snowman face.
Kaboom! Boogg exploded to cheering crowds. As
winter’s effigy, Boogg’s speedy demise at Zurich’s
annual Sechselauten festival forecast a long and
glorious summer for Switzerland.
H
eld on the third weekend of April near
Zurich’s scenic Limmat River, Sechselauten
(pronounced sex-eh-loten) celebrates the
city’s historic guilds or associations of
politicos, artisans, workers and tradesmen. Starting
with Sunday’s parade of costumed children, the revelry
continues on Monday with a procession of guildsmen,
and climaxes with the symbolic burning of Boogg. The
spree continues in cafés and eateries.
Zurich’s spring festival is among hundreds
happening year round in Switzerland’s urbane city
hubs, lakeside enclaves and lofty alpine resorts. Joyously
distinct and diverse as the geography, the festivals reflect
Swiss joie de vivre and appreciation for traditions honed
over centuries. Local Swiss celebrate everything from
music, performance arts and theatre to country harvests,
gastronomy and wine.
Planning is essential to maximize your time. It’s
worth checking www.myswitzerland.com to customize
30 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
Celebrating Zurich’s Sechselauten festival, guild
members mounted on horses race around the
burning Boogg (snowman), symbolizing the
farewell to winter and rejoicing of spring. Lively
areas of Zurich thrive on both sides of the Limmat
River. Photo © Toby Saltzman.
your itinerary with tourism tips, mapped routes and
value-added packages for travel by train or car that run
from the “Grand Tour” of iconic delights to shorter
jaunts of ten to 4 days.
Adventurous at heart, I unabashedly set aside time
to linger in serene enclaves for soupçons of indulgence.
Rather than experiencing quick glimpses of Switzerland,
I pre-booked train tickets for a leisurely 10-day itinerary,
mingling tastes for the urban and rural, the Alps and
seas. I chose accommodations that promised a sense of
place, gastronomic experience and proximity to villages
brimming with local culture.
Zurich proved the perfect starting point. A hub for
Europe rail travel, the cosmopolitan city known for its
Medieval squares, echelon of museums and exacting
business acumen was lively beyond expectations.
Above Photo: Beautiful Lake Geneva.
a ta s t e o f s w i t z e r l a n d
EXPLORE
Photos above left to right: Lucerne’s iconic Chapel Bridge and Water Tower; A cruise on Lake Geneva reveals splendid scenery including historic sites
along the Montreux riviera, Photo © Toby Saltzman; Charlie Chaplin Square in Vevey, Photo © Toby Saltzman; Mt. Pilatus offers spectacular views, Photo
© Toby Saltzman; Tourists pop into Vevey’s famed Poyet chocolatier for exquisite Swiss chocolate delicacies.
including the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne that declared
At Baur au Lac — renowned for setting high
Turkey’s independence. I’ll never forget the lavish
hallmarks of hospitality while catering to international
attention a Cinque Mondes Spa; the splendour of dining
Royalty, Heads of State and luminaries – I was awestruck
at Anne-Sophie Pic; or the sommelier’s explanation that
by the lobby’s exquisite blend of architecture, centuriesthe nearby Lavaux vineyards are “sweetened by sun in
old antiques, Art Deco pieces and Expressionist works
the sky, sun reflecting off the sea, and sun reflecting from
by Chagall and Picasso, among others. Settling into my
a stony terroir that retains heat.”
sumptuously decorated suite overlooking Lake Zurich, I
Sunny skies reigned over my days cruising around
envisioned past hotel guests – say, James Joyce writing
Lake Geneva. Memorable experiences: the UNESCOUlysses – and felt ensconced in the historic essence of
designated Lavaux vineyards for tasting prized Chasselas
Switzerland. Dining at Rive Gauche that evening, I
vintages. Vevey for Confiserie Poyet’s chocolate fantasies
pictured Mr. Nobel conceptualizing his prize at a table
including tiny “Charlie Chaplin” shoes; and Denis Martin
laden with crystal and silver.
Cuisinier’s dazzling molecular dishes. Montreux Riviera,
A few days later, I sat on the upper deck of a train,
where cafés and jazz clubs exude Swiss panache.
watching scenes of hills and valleys unfold en route to
Off the train in Lucerne, I was smitten by its fairyLausanne. Rolling out of a mountain tunnel, I gasped at
tale aesthetic, medieval architecture, shiny lake and
the first glance of Lake Geneva: its meandering coastlines
iconic Chapel Bridge. Basing in the Art Deco Montana
dotted by pretty villages; budding vineyards terraced
Hotel, I ventured to Mount Pilatus, riding the world’s
toward glistening waters; its picturesque setting framed
steepest cogwheel train 2132 metres above sea level for
by distant alps, their snowy peaks sparkling in sunshine.
breathtaking views. Descending later on the gondola, I
Lausanne is a convenient base for exploring Lake
snapped shots of ibex grazing in an alpine meadow.
Geneva and the Matterhorn region, with access to the
Craving a pampering finale before my flight home,
Glacier3000 cable car that whisks thrill seekers 3,000
I boarded a paddle steamer to Weggis, an idyllic enclave
metres high to cross the new Peak-to-Peak suspension
tucked on Lake Lucerne’s shore at the base of Mount Rigi,
bridge for alpine panoramas. Lausanne and its
where the Post Hotel Weggis’ motto is
surrounding area is a microcosm of the
“chill out in style.” Luxuriating in a
Swiss experience with lakes, mountains,
scented whirlpool scattered with rose
notable vineyards and more than 1200
petals, I vowed to return for another
star-studded accommodations and
taste of Switzerland.
restaurants acclaimed by Michelin and
Gault Millau critics.
Settling into my suite at Beau
DETAILS:
Rivage Palace – the epitome of Belle
www.myswitzerland.com
Époque grandeur and faultless service
The Swiss Travel Pass for rail
among Europe’s finest hotels – I couldn’t
transportation and bonus discounts
resist stepping out on the balcony.
must be purchased in North
Overlooking the park spanning to
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the
America. Visit www.raileurope.ca
Lake Geneva, my imagination drifted
centurie-old terraces of Lavaux vineyard
or www.swisstravelsystem.com
revels in sunshine reflecting off Lake Geneva
to historic scenarios enacted here,
to produce the coveted Chasselas wine.
Photo © Toby Saltzman.
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 31
MARKET INFO
p l a z a ’ s u p d at e w i t h s c o t t m c l e l l a n
PLAZA LOOKS AHEAD TO 3 NEW GAME-
CHANGING DEVELOPMENTS TO LAUNCH THIS YEAR
Over the last 20 years, PLAZA has become one of Toronto’s most
experienced and largest residential condominium construction and
development organizations.
PLAZA’s Upcoming Developments:
THE MET
The MET, a 30-storey condominium
with 500 suites located at Highway
7 and Jane Street in Vaughan, signals
PLAZA’s first foray into the 905.
The Toronto-York Spadina subway
extension is slated for completion in
2016. Highway 407 Station, one of six
new subway stations, will be steps from
The MET and only two stops from
York University. Residents will be able
to get to downtown Toronto within a
brisk 30 minutes.
The MET will also be located in the
future Vaughan Metropolitan Centre,
a modern urban centre for residents
and businesses with multi-use office
towers, residences, open green space
with walking and cycling paths, shops,
and restaurants. The MET will be a
great option for singles, young families
and empty nesters who are downsizing
and find downtown condominium
prices a little high.
Suites will be available in 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom plus den and 2 bedroom layouts ranging in size from 500 to 649 square feet.
There will also be 60 townhouses available. The MET
is designed by renowned Quadrangle Architects with
interior design by Mike Nevin Interior Design. Like any
PLAZA development, high-quality features and finishes
come as standard rather than upgrades. Residents can
expect full-size appliances, laminate floors throughout,
window coverings, ceramic counters and Moen faucets.
THEATRE DISTRICT
Located at Adelaide Street West and Widmer Street, the
Theatre District condominiums offer all of the glittering
32 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
excitement and city conveniences
that come with living in the heart of
downtown Toronto’s Entertainment
District.
Theatre District residents will be
in the hub of the city’s best culture and
entertainment offerings, with some
of the top restaurants and exceptional
live theatre right outside the door.
Only steps away is the Princess of
Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra
Theatre, Roy Thomson Hall and the
TIFF Bell Lightbox, which is the
official headquarters for the Toronto
International Film Festival and perfect
for celebrity spotting and taking in
acclaimed cinema.
Designed by Quadrangle Architects with interior design by Bryon
Patton and Associates, Theatre District
will be a 50-storey condominium with
475 suites, including one-bedroom,
one-bedroom-plus-den, and two and
three bedroom. Sizes range from 458
to 1,188 square feet. Inspired amenities
will include a five-star exercise room
with the latest equipment and a party
room. There will also be a sky lobby to
host chic dinner and cocktails parties on the 10th floor.
Theatre District will include 3,000 square feet of retail
space on the ground floor on Adelaide Street West.
The winning formula for
success this year is the
acquisition of sites that
will attract purchasers
who value location,
convenience and quality
design. “We have always
been focused on acquiring
triple A sites, whether it’s
been in established areas
like Yonge and Wellesley
with ‘50 at Wellesley’ or
locations with potential
like Liberty Village,” says
Scott McLellan, senior vice
president at PLAZA. “The
three new developments
launching this year carry
on that tradition of being
located in desirable
locations and we’re
confident that purchasers
will be just as excited as
we are.”
170 SPADINA
PLAZA has recently acquired what is sure to be a highly
desired location on Spadina Ave. just north of Queen
Street West. Planning and zoning is underway for 170
Spadina. More details will be
available later in the year, so stay
tuned.
For more information visit pureplaza.com
BY IRIS BENAROIA
Popular with young families, this South Riverdale
region is chock-a-block with independent shops
and community spirit
THE VIBE:
If you happen to see a motorist wrangling a midcentury-modern sofa into the
back of his Volvo, chances are you’re in Leslieville. The nerve centre for vintage
furniture is a destination for quirky Atomic Age design (get your kidney-shaped
coffee tables here, folks!) as well as all things retro. Once the purview of the
working classes, Leslieville has undergone a transition over the past decade.
Cafés, organic-minded purveyors and yoga studios have replaced boarded-up
storefronts, attracting urban professionals who have made a home on the treelined streets off Queen and in the new condominiums. There’s lots of green space
in the ’hood, the largest is Greenwood Park, where baby strollers, joggers and
cyclists are a common sight. There’s a real sense of community here, as residents
ardently support local businesses. Time to head east for more than a couch.
FOOD FINDS:
Ceili Cottage: 1301 Queen St. E.
Pronounced “kay-lee,” this unpretentious, homey
Celtic pub offers oysters, steak pie, roast dinner, a
good whisky list and craft beers. Huddle inside the
yurt or heated patio in winter as the smoky scent
of salmon cooked on peat moss lingers in the air
like a campfire memory.
Hitch: 1216 Queen St. E.
Those hankering for vinyl will dig this analogfriendly bar with laidback, communal picnic
tables. The joint was named after the writer
Christopher Hitchens (nice!). Bourbon sours and
other Mad Men-era cocktails go down nicely
along eats in mini mason jars.
Lady Marmalade: 898 Queen St. E.
Hippie-ish decor, tasty brunch, long lineups,
lots of kids. That’s what you’ll expect. The spicy
wild salmon on sourdough with chipotle mayo is
divine. Avocado, brie and bacon eggs benny is
a must-try.
S:
FIND
NITURE
ve.
l
avies A
re: 1 D with individua e
u
it
n
r
u
GUFF F t that condo op for vintag a
Trick ou this Scandi sh ut sideboard, out
style at gs — a waln builds knock aged
o
furnishintch. GUFF als sks, from salv
e
teak hu pieces, like d
m
to
s
u
c
t. E.
l.
ueen S
materia
000 Q r Hvidt.
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:
n
r
e
od
Pete
e Age M
r Knoll,
ith their
Machin egner, Parke be familiar w
t
Hans W you may no
Though their iconic
names, are timeless. ir
designs to fondle the
y
Drop b ourself. A cute store also
y
h
rc
e
are.
r of the
m
the rea nistic cookw
in
k
o
ro
no
h
c
a
n
sa
feature pot, anyone?
Fondue
FUR
Rashers: 948 Queen St. E.
Keep your pet pig, Babe, away from this
all-bacon specialty shop. Hefty sarnies made of
everyone’s favourite meat (this one is ethically
sourced) comes on Ace bread. A beer BLT has
braised bacon; the Full Monty has a fried
egg — and bacon, always bacon.
COFFEE N’ SWEETS:
Bobbette & Belle: 1121 Queen St. E.
Go for the ambience alone. The bright, airy
patisserie is all white avec Frenchy furniture.
A display of wedding cakes looks like pretty
sculptures. Perch on the settee with a pastry or
macaron.
LOCAL INTEL:
Name:
Sarah Cooper
Occupation:
Integrated Comm
unications
Time in the ’hoo
(PR and Marketin
g)
d: 18 months
I love it here beca
use…
It’s
pretty relaxed bu
t at the same tim
e can be like
an episode of Po
rtlandia. I grew
up in Leaside
and moved to Pa
rkdale in my ea
rly 20s, so
Leslieville is the
perfect fit for me
. It’s a really nic
mix of cultures —
e
our neighbours
are from all
over the globe.
What people do
n’t realize abou
t
Leslieville is that
…
It’s a mixed bag
of the old and the
new. Yes,
gentrification is
in full swing but
there are some
great divey old
bars and diners
.
My favourite spot
s
are…
I love coffee, an
d there’s an abun
dance of coffee
shops, from The
Rooster to Dark
Horse to Tim
Hortons. Guff is
without question
the best place
to buy furniture
in Toronto. They
have a beautifu
selection of mid-c
l
entur y modern vin
tage, but also
make some beau
tiful new and cu
sto
m pieces
and their prices
are very reasona
ble. The Value
Village at Quee
n and Logan ha
s been a fave
since I was in my
teens and it conti
nues to be a
trove of great se
cond-hand finds
. Ruby Watchco
is consistently de
licious and the sta
ff can only
be described as
marvelous. Aft’s
barbecue is
perfection.
Te Aro (Pilot Coffee Roasters): 983 Queen St. E.
Inhale, then inhale again. You’ve entered
beanhead heaven where baristas take their wakeup elixirs very seriously — the payoff is in the cup.
An ethical incentive also sees the crew making
origin visits to coffee farms, from Guatemala to
Costa Rica.
Atomic Toybot: 978 Queen St. E.
Designer toys and pop art for adults
with idiosyncratic tastes, makes for a fun
afternoon. Look for Tintin figurines and Robin
VanValkenburgh’s ceramic bunny in ball gown, as
well as her other anthropomorphic oddities.
SHOPS TO SHOP:
Olliffe: 1378 Queen St. E.
Brothers Sam and Ben Gundy work directly with
farmers across Canada to bring the best meat to
this charming tin-ceilinged butcher shop.
Hooked: 888 Queen St. E.
This ain’t no tall tale, these folks know fish. Quality
fish and seafood enticingly glistens from the
display case. Floundered by how to cook it? Ask
the onsite pros who run the cooking classes.
Baby on the Hip: 969 Queen St. E.
From green toys to ergonomic baby carriers, and
all else simple and natural, you’ll find it here at
this obsessively sustainable modern parent palace.
✂ TEAR-RIFIC NEIGHBOURHOODS ✂
LESLIEVILLE
leslieville
HONOURABLE MENTIONS:
Mercury Espresso Bar, Bonjour Brioche, Reliable
Fish & Chips, Joy Bistro, Jim’s Restaurant (best
westerns in town), Lil’ Baci, Tabülè, Queen
Margherita, Boots & Bourbon Saloon, Leslie Jones,
Rock Lobster, The Comrade, Batifole, Table 17,
Brick Street Bakery, Ed’s Real Scoop, Black Rooster
Decor, The Brow House, Waxon Waxbar
✂ TEAR-RIFIC NEIGHBOURHOODS ✂
TEAR-RIFIC NEIGHBOURHOODS
n e w i n t e r a c t i v e a r t i n s ta l l at i o n
tridel
puts
public
art
front and
centre
EXCITING NEWS
Developer Unveils
“Back to Front”;
New Interactive Art
Installation by London’s
Jason Bruges, at 300
Front Street West
W
hen you live at Front and John, in the heart
of the Entertainment District, amid some
of Toronto’s most exciting theatres, largest
stadiums, and trendiest restaurants, it
takes a lot to grab your attention.
Pulling your focus from the flashing lights and
dynamic crowds that surround you requires something
innovative, unique and often something that’s interactive… something like the recently unveiled new
public art installation at Tridel’s 300 Front Street West
condominium, titled “Back to Front”.
Designed by the London UK-based Jason Bruges
Studio, the distinctive and captivating installation
consists of large, monolithic granite structures that sense
changing levels of light within the park (in which the
installation stands), in real time. People walk through
the park, trees shift and the sun moves across the site,
casting dynamic shadows onto the monoliths. These
changing shadow conditions are sensed by the artwork
and transferred through the depth of the granite structure
to reveal animated silhouettes on the opposite side.
Images are revealed through an array of LED lights,
diffused by glass lenses embedded within the stone,
creating enjoyable, dynamic and unique experiences for
residents, visitors and passersby.
“We believe that public art is a very important
component of the condominium communities we
develop,” says Tridel’s Senior Vice President of Sales and
Marketing, Jim Ritchie. “When done properly, public art
serves to enhance the building architecture, landscape
design and urban planning; it can act as a common
amenity for residents, and stands as a reflection not just
of the developer and the project, but of the condominium
community, the neighbourhood and the city.
“And, when treated as an important element of
a condominium, a public art installation can be a
transformative experience helping to define a community.
That’s what is happening in the park at 300 Front,” he adds.
The Jason Bruges designed installation is located in a
privately-owned, publicly-accessible park at the corner of
Front and John Street.
The art installation marks a condominium project
where only seven suites from the exclusive Atmosphere
Collection remain. These refined residences, located on
the 44th to 49th floors, offer some of the city’s best views.
Available suites are priced from $1.2-million and range in
size from 1,367 to 1,815 sq. ft.
Designed by the award-winning Wallman Architects
and featuring interior amenity spaces designed by
Union31, the 49-storey tower in the heart of the Entertainment District is recognized as one of Toronto’s most
successful recent condominium developments.
“Add to our iconic location, contemporary tower form
and distinctive interior design this amazing new public
art installation, and you have a condominium unlike any
other,” says Jim Ritchie. “Truly a one-of-a-kind piece of
art, for a truly one-of-a-kind condominium.”
For more information on 300 Front Street West, call
(416) 217-0300, visit the Sales Centre Monday through Thursday,
11am-7pm (or weekends, noon-6pm), or go to
www.tridel.com/300front/
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 35
MARKET INFO
va r l e y c o n d o m i n i u m s i n u n i o n v i l l e
FIRST CLASS LUXURY REACHES
NEW HEIGHTS IN UNIONVILLE
Tribute Communities has set a
new standard for distinctive
condominium living with the
spectacular suites offered at
VARLEY
CONDOMINIUM
RESIDENCES
V
arley Condominium Residences is an exclusive new boutique condominium that offers
more than just a place to live, but also a way
of life. Featuring a wide selection of luxurious
condominium suites and an ideal location just steps to
Main Street, Unionville, Varley Condominium Residences
offers the ultimate in sophisticated condominium living
at Unionville’s best address.
The architecture at Varley Condominium Residences
is the epitome of elegance. Large windows welcome
light into the suites, and spacious balconies and terraces
bring a calming, natural touch to your private spaces.
At street level, the beautifully landscaped grounds
blend seamlessly into the natural charm of Unionville,
and an exclusive selection of ground level boutique
shops continue the ambience of Main Street right into
the community. Perhaps the most distinctive feature of
Varley Condominium Residences is the central courtyard
that forms the heart of this luxurious setting. Featuring
lush gardens, trees and seating areas, the courtyard is an
inspired retreat of luxurious tranquillity.
Varley Condominium Residences offers exquisite
suites and an exclusive community atmosphere. Relax in
the landscaped courtyard. Enjoy a good book on your
very own private balcony or terrace. Entertain friends
and family in the elegant party room at the Varley Club.
And the suites themselves are the most luxurious that
Unionville has ever seen. With so much to offer, you
can create the life you’ve always dreamed of at Varley
Condominium Residences. Suite prices range from the
low $500’s to over $2 million.
The suites at Varley Condominium Residences are
the purest expression of boutique luxury living. The main
lobby and amenity spaces have been expertly decorated
by acclaimed designer Bryon Patton and every suite has
been artistically crafted by the award-winning architects
at Graziani + Corazza Architects Inc. Elegant features
and finishes include 10’ ceilings throughout, hardwood
flooring, granite kitchen counters, a Miele Classic
Series stainless steel kitchen appliance package, custom
designed Irpinia kitchen cabinets, separate soaker tubs
and glass shower enclosures in ensuites, expansive
balconies or terraces and more. Every material has been
carefully selected and every square foot of every suite
thoughtfully designed.
The Varley Condominiums offer the many benefits
of living just steps to Main Street, Unionville. This picture
perfect heritage neighbourhood features quaint shops,
cafés, restaurants and the historic Varley Art Gallery.
Every summer, you can enjoy live music on Thursday
Nights at the Bandstand and Concert Sundays. And
in late August, the village comes alive with even more
music during the Markham Jazz Festival,
with live bands performing in multiple
venues along Main Street.
For more information about Varley
Condominium Residences visit mytribute.ca or
call 905-604-1477. You can also visit the Presentation Centre, located at 20 Fred
Varley Dr. in Unionville.
36 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
condo expert
EXPERT ADVICE
your condo MULTIFACETED
backyard— and MATURE
BY BARBARA LAWLOR
Condo living in the urban jungle brings with it ample opportunity to
enjoy outdoor space, from courtyard to rooftop to balcony.
M
any of the condominiums in Toronto today
feature a landscaped courtyard at ground
level. This European-inspired amenity
helps to set a welcoming tone to the
building. Like the open piazzas of Italy, Spain, Belgium
and other European countries, courtyards are open,
roofless spaces that feature benches, trees, shrubs and
sometimes retail venues around the perimeter.
In our condos, courtyards also serve as a gentle
introduction to the building that rises behind or around,
softening the impact of the exterior on the streetscape,
contributing to the welcoming sense of place envisioned
by the architects. Landscape and building architects work
together to create a synergy for the artistic sensibility of
the whole, and to ensure the design incorporates plants
that will thrive in the sun and shade conditions. You will
find courtyards configured in a variety of ways, including
interior spaces that provide a private, green urban oasis.
Condominium designers and developers often
create that courtyard feel on rooftop terraces, which are
one of the common elements individual condo owners
have access to. Often landscaped to a tee, rooftop terraces
can range up to 2,000 square feet or even more. Enjoy
the landscaping, yes, but also the sparkling views of Lake
Ontario, the awe-inspiring night-view of the city lights,
the expanse of the metropolis with its tree-lined streets,
parks, and neighbourhoods, and its network of roadways
alive with activity.
Most likely, your rooftop terrace will feature
barbecues and furnished dining areas for cooking and
eating alfresco in pleasant weather. Many have fire pits to
extend their use past September, and you may be lucky
enough to live in a condo where the outdoor terrace
includes an entire kitchen. I have seen people in parkas
barbecuing and cooking during the winter and then
bringing their feasts indoors. These phenomenal terraces
may also include bars, sheltered seating, open sundecks
with lounge chairs, private cabanas, swimming pools,
infinity pools, reflecting pools and hot tubs. Often, the
terrace is directly accessible from the indoor party room
and/or lounges.
Your own private condo balcony or terrace can be an
outdoor oasis, too. Let loose your designing diva, your
inner gardener, and play with wooden garden benches,
built-in planters, ceramic, or terra cotta containers, and
fill them with your favourite plants. Your local garden
centre expert can help you choose plants that will thrive
in your balcony environment, based on exposure, wind,
and other elements beyond your control. Fresh herbs for
your gastronomical creations, splashes of floral colour
to augment your décor, even lighting, water installations
and living walls are all possibilities to give life and
personality to your personal condo patio.
The multi-faceted “backyard” of Toronto condo
living has grown up, and with courtyards and rooftop
terraces, you don’t have to weed, mow or water or sweep,
which means you have more time to enjoy them! Does
life get any better?
South Terrace at King Blue Condominiums
Barbara Lawlor is president of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since
1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog
at blog.bakerrealestate.com
CONDO ELITE S P R I NG
| 37
SPRING
what’s on
April 9 -18, The 2015 Images Festival
Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art
www.imagesfestival.com
April 10-12, Toronto Food + Drink Market
Direct Energy Centre
www.goodfoodfestival.com
March 5, Toronto Sushi Festival
Roy Thomson Hall
www.sushifestival.ca
March 13-22, The National Home Show
and Canada Blooms
Direct Energy Centre
www.nationalhomeshow.com
March 15, St. Patrick’s Day 5K Run/Walk
Leon’s Furniture Store
www.achillesstpatricksday5k.ca
March 27, 2015, Green Living Show
Metro Toronto Convention Centre
www.greenlivingshow.ca
May 1- May 31,
Scotiabank CONTACT
Photography Festival
www.scotiabankcontactphoto.com
April 10-12, Yoga Pilates Conference
and Show
Metro Toronto Convention Centre
www.theyogaconference.com
May 2, Annual SPIRIT of Toronto
Roy Thomson Hall
www.spiritoftoronto.ca
April 16-19, LOVE ART 2015
Direct Energy Centre
www.loveartfair.com
April 19, Toronto Yonge Street 10k
www.canadarunningseries.com/toronto10k
April 23, Canadian International Documentary
Festival: HOTDOCS
www.hotdocs.ca
May 1 - 10, Canadian Music Week
www.cmw.net
May 3, GoodLife Fitness Toronto Marathon
www.torontomarathon.com
May 23 - 24, Doors Open Toronto
www.Toronto.ca
This listing of Toronto Events was produced by
CityEvents, Event Planning and Marketing.
For a more complete list of local events visit
www.torontocityevents.com
Photos: A showcase of photos from the
various uptcoming events in our city.
Perfect for intergalactic life.
Perfect for city life.
>> The 2015 smart fortwo.
Fuel-efficient, traffic-friendly, and a breeze to park. All at a perfectly affordable price. It just doesn’t
get any better for city living. To experience all the benefits for yourself, visit your local smart Centre
for a test drive today.
www.smart.com
© 2014 smart Canada, a Division of Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.
smart - a Daimler brand
MARKET INFO
bartholomew condos
&
towns coming soon
THE BARTHOLOMEW CONDOMINIUM
SUITES AND TOWNS COMING SOON
BY THE DANIELS CORPORATION
Register today for Toronto’s Downtown East
newest community
I
n Toronto’s Regent Park, the lifestyle opportunities
offered by The Daniels Corporation are capturing the
interest of buyers seeking outstanding urban living
for great prices. The Bartholomew, Daniels’ newest
collection of condominium suites and condominium
townhomes, is the latest addition to the award-winning,
world-leading Regent Park revitalization. With suite prices
beginning from the low-$200,000s and towns from the
mid-$500,000s, the opportunity to own a new home will
be attainable for professionals, growing families, emptynesters, singles and couples alike.
The Bartholomew includes a 13-storey condominium
and 30 condominium townhomes designed by renowned
Quadrangle Architects Limited. Residents’ exclusive amenities will include:
• a party room with kitchen/bar
• a 24/7 lounge and pet spa
• landscaped courtyard with gardening plots.
An indoor fitness centre will be accompanied by a
multi-purpose room offering WELLBEATS™, which enables people to select fitness classes, invite friends and exercise guided by professional on-screen instructors.
The condo suites feature 9- and 10-foot ceilings,
laminate, porcelain and ceramic flooring, kitchens with
quartz countertops, porcelain tile backsplashes and European-style stainless steel appliances, and bathrooms with
quartz countertops, deep soaker tubs and glass showers.
The Bartholomew will also offer three-storey townhomes with designer finishes. Townhomes include 9-foot
ceilings on the ground, second and third floors, oak staircases stained to match the floor colour and private rear
yards with a gas line perfect for outdoor BBQ entertaining.
To take townhome living to the next level, consider
The Bartholomew’s exclusive Sutton Collection, just seven
luxury towns nestled on Sutton Street. These residences
will redefine downtown living with four-level, two- and
three-bedroom townhomes with rooftop terraces, private
garages, finished lower levels and the opportunity to select
designer finishes.
The Bartholomew is nestled in the centre of Toronto’s
most vibrant neighbourhood. The suites and towns will be
steps to Daniels Spectrum - a 60,000 square-foot cultural
hub named the 2013 Best New Event Venue in Canada by
BizBash, Paintbox Bistro, featuring live entertainment and
the cuisine of Chef Chris Klugman, a 6-acre community
40 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
park, the Regional Aquatic Centre, a Community Centre
currently under construction, FreshCo by Sobeys, Rogers, Tim Hortons, RBC Royal Bank, and the conveniences
of schools, public transit, and during the growing season,
The Regent Park Farmers’ Market. Plans for Phase Three
of the revitalization include the 2.8-acre Regent Park
Athletic Grounds funded through the support of MLSE
Foundation. The ice rink is already complete and in use.
In minutes, Regent Park residents can also walk to the Eaton Centre, Bay Street, Leslieville, Cabbagetown, the Distillery District, Nathan Phillips Square, and more.
If you do not own a home and are currently renting, you may qualify for Daniels’ exclusive First Home
BOOST. This powerful Down Payment Program provides
an interest-free, payment-free loan for an additional 10%
of the purchase price, turning your 5% deposit into a 15%
down payment! You can carry a mortgage for only 85%
of the purchase price, meaning lower monthly carrying
costs.
Registrants who join The Bartholomew Inner Circle™
are entitled to be among the first to purchase, with an invitation to Daniels’ Preview Event and First Advance Sale
before the general public. Inner Circle™ members will enjoy preview pricing and the most comprehensive choice
of homes, floors and views. A $300 registration fee is required, which will be applied toward the purchase of your
suite, or fully refunded if you choose not to purchase.
The Daniels Corporation (danielshomes.ca) is one of
Canada’s pre-eminent builder/developers, building more
than 25,000 new homes across the GTA for 33 years. Daniels
was chosen to partner with Toronto Community Housing to
revitalize Regent Park. Committed to community, Daniels offers
innovative programs that help people achieve homeownership,
champion’s neighbourhood initiatives that enhance resident’s
quality of life, and supports numerous charities and non-profit
organizations.
To register for The Bartholomew, visit Daniels’ Regent Park
Presentation Centre at 500 Dundas Street East, call
416-955-0559 or visit DanielsBartholomew.com.
It’s more than a
new collection
It’s a concept
We want you to make the most out of your space. That’s why the new
2015 collection can be customised to fit your needs. That’s why you can
pick materials and colours to suit your style. And that’s why our designers
provide interior decoration services to make your dream home come true.
Visit our store and let our designers make the most out of your space.
Toronto | New York | Denmark | Tokyo | Paris | Dubai | London | Sydney | Berlin
BoConcept Toronto
230 Adelaide St. East
M5A 1M9
647 352-8802
[email protected]