Liquid Assets Tion at One Time, but There’S a Good Chance You’Ll Be Able to Keep It All,” Where to Put a Cherished Wine Collection When He Says

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SMALL AND SUMPTUOUS How to live lavishly in a downsized space: choose the right project, invest in quality

ike so many other couples when their children head off to university, Sam and Maria Crignano made Lthe move downtown. They exchanged their large Richmond Hill family house for a penthouse at London on the Esplanade, a residential high-rise that Mr. Crignano’s development company, Cityzen, had built. Although the city condo sizes are smaller – at Pier 27, one of Cityzen’s luxury projects, has penthouse suites starting at 1,300 square feet – these buyers aren’t expected to scrimp on luxury. Amenities, for example, compare to a five-star hotel – valet parking, thermal re- laxation pool, counter-current pool, outdoor pool, party room and guest suites. Inside, it’s more of the same: 10-foot ceilings, nine-inch baseboards, marble, granite or limestone floors in kitchens and baths, Downsview kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities. “You don’t want to be stingy on quality because it changes the whole feel of the suite and the overall project,” Mr. Crignano says. “Kitchens have to be high- end because people spend so much time in that area, whether they’re eating home alone or entertaining friends.” He adds that because this demographic travels a lot – and is accustomed to some pampering – bathrooms and Pier 27’s model suite (top) is packed with upscale features such as high ceilings, large windows and tall door bedrooms have to be comparable to a boutique hotel. frames. Pears on the Avenue townhouses (above) offer gourmet kitchens with stone counter tops. The Crignanos are part of a growing demographic that’s selling the family home so they can divide assets foot suite seems much larger. Chances are if the lobby Sparkle adds a touch of luxury. Consider mirrors and and time between a cottage, a Florida condo and a and amenity spaces are extravagantly outfitted, you’re mirrored furniture, silver and crystal accents. Toronto pied-à-terre. going to find luxury in the suite. Look at the standard Invest in custom drapes. They’re lined, hang better “High ceilings are a must because they give volume list for inclusives, such as stone or engineered hardwood than off the rack and dress the windows properly. Silk, and a necessary feeling of space to a room, especially floors, high-quality kitchen appliances and bathroom damask and linen are good choices. important when the footprint is smaller,” says Mr. Cri- fixtures. gnano. “The same goes for windows. Unless you have a It’s wise to invest in upgrades from the beginning, DON’T SCRIMP ON DINING corner suite, the only opportunity for windows is on one especially for things like radiant heat floors or heated Everyone needs a place to linger over a good meal. A of four walls, so that fourth wall has to be all window.” towel racks. round table and four chairs don’t take up very much “It’s very possible to live luxuriously in a smaller Invest in the best furnishings, such as a conversation room. Beautiful dishes are another necessary indulgence. space,” Toronto interior designer Bryon Patton says. It piece carpet, artwork, Egyptian cotton or linen bedding helps when the building sets the tone, such as Menkes’ and down comforter, or upholstery that has inviting SPRING FOR BUILT-INS Gibson Square, where Mr. Patton was the principal textures or well-defined patterns. Many condo suites have walk-in closets, but Mr. Crignano designer. Luxury buildings offer high ceilings that add a thinks they eat up valuable space. “My designers and sense of spaciousness; large windows for better light; ACCESSORIZE marketing people tell me that people want them, but and quality finishes, such as engineered hardwood, large Don’t assume that removing everything in sight will I think built-ins work much better – they use every baseboards, tall door frames, custom cabinetry and spa- help the space feel larger. That just makes for a boring square inch, hold more clothing and finish off a room like bathroom fixtures. home. Don’t get rid of all your books, art or collectibles. beautifully.” If you start with a good project, he says, you’ve started While furniture that multitasks is useful, sometimes that off on the right foot. exquisite piece with a single purpose provides more HIRE PEOPLE personality and beauty. Designers know how to come up with floor plans that INVEST IN THE BEST Go for one large, dramatic piece of artwork rather than combine existing and new furnishings in proper scale Take a careful look at the condo project’s amenity pack- several small pieces, unless they’re framed alike and and proportion. They also know how best to use lighting, age. When there are a lot of amenities, a 1,000-square- hung in neat rows. especially critical in small spaces.

collection among properties, such as a cottage up north or a winter home in Florida. “You won’t be able to put your hands on your complete collec- Liquid assets tion at one time, but there’s a good chance you’ll be able to keep it all,” Where to put a cherished wine collection when he says. downsizing to a condominium CUSTOMIZE THE CONDO or serious wine collectors, down- As more baby boomers downsize, If you want to keep your collection Fsizing from a home to a condo is it’s a challenge that’s being taken up intact, the best solution is to get ahead a serious challenge. It often means all over the city in various ways. Here of the game by planning. Custom swapping a roomy wine cellar for a are a few of the most popular. wine storage can be installed just wine fridge with decidedly less space. about anywhere, but often requires Though some luxury condos offer a SPREAD OUT THE COLLECTION communal wine cellar or include mod- AMONG PROPERTIES Wine, Page est wine storage in their units, most Gary LaRose, president of Rosehill of the latter don’t hold more than 200 Wine Cellars, works frequently with This content was produced bottles. “Anyone who is serious about downsizing collectors. “It’s not un- by The Globe and Mail’s advertising their wine collection needs a fair-size usual to transfer a 3,000-bottle col- department. The Globe’s editorial space – and the utilities – to store it,” lection into a condo unit that can take department was not involved Condos of more than 2,000 square feet often incorporate wine rooms. says Chris Morris, vice-president of 600 bottles or fewer.” in its creation. DIETER HESSEL Toronto Vintners. One solution is to redistribute the YORKVILLE

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For more information visit Globeandmail.com/partners/adv/luxuryrealestate Bodacious boudoirs Divine dressing rooms and custom closets take cues from the best boutiques

here’s something about the idea Tof a personal dressing room that makes most people swoon. Maybe it’s the thought of having all our clothing and accessories displayed for easy accessibility rather than having them crammed into a closet and dangling from different types of hangers. Half the time we forget what we even have, because we don’t dare to venture beyond what we can see. So, we tend to grab the same old thing, or we just go out and buy another white shirt. In older homes, closets weren’t even part of the overall plan. Ward- robes or armoires were commonly used. If a closet was included, it was generally built under the stairs or sloping eaves, making use of unused, awkward spaces. Today, if a new house doesn’t have a walk-in closet, we don’t give it a second look. A woman’s private sitting room or salon was referred to as a boudoir. The term was derived from the French word bouder, which means to sulk – a room for sulking in. Historically, the boudoir was part of the private suite of a “lady” that was adjacent to the bed chamber and was used for bathing and dressing. Over the years, it evolved into a private drawing room for other activities, such as embroidery and sewing, and possibly spending time with one’s romantic partner. There’s no sulking going on in the boudoir of Erica Gelman, principal designer at House of Design. Ms. Gel- man took a spare bedroom in her own home and transformed it into a luxurious dressing room–aroomofher own. Everything is open for viewing and easily accessible, just like a stylish boutique. When you think about, it’s Take advantage of vertical space (top) to maximize storage and use a combination of hangers and shelves. Closet by Jackie Pezer-Lilic, In2ition Realty. the merchandising in the store that KELVIN YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHY INC.

‘...if you’re TIPS FOR CREATING determined to A FABULOUS CLOSET keep it organized, • Develop a §oor plan after taking inventory of all you you will, because want to store in the room. it’s easier to do so.’ • Functionality is paramount. Create a list of what you draws your eye to purchase a certain need. The wants come later. garment in the first place. When you have the opportunity to determine • Make use of walls with the what goes with what, you’re more most real estate for maximum likely to mix and match and make use storage. of those long-forgotten pieces that you just had to have. • Incorporate lots of hanging Aside from practical considerations, space and open shelving. a dressing room might be the only place in the home that’s truly yours • Use old dressers for storing and not used by other family mem- socks and underwear. When bers. For that reason, says Ms. Gel- it comes to custom cabinetry, man, it’s important to personalize it. drawers cost the most. Once you have the storage elements in place, layer the room with your • Include a free-standing mirror favourite things. Add an accent rug, that can be positioned where a beautiful light fixture or a chaise you want it, rather than lounge. “Your personal closet is a re- taking up valuable wall space. flection of yourself,” says Ms. Gelman. “Hang pictures, display special jewelry • Ensure that you have good and birthday cards.” lighting and, if you’re Reclining on her chaise while her incorporating a make-up baby is napping, Ms. Gelman adds, vanity, add the appropriate “Some people say that if you add task lighting. furniture, it’s just a place to throw clothes on. But if you’re determined • Maintain order with hanger to keep it organized, you will, because types. Velvet hangers prevent it’s easier to do so.” lightweight fabric from If you live in a condominium or slipping off and wooden home with a small footprint, she ad- hangers are good for folding vises you to make use of the vertical pants over and supporting space, especially if you have good heavier clothing. ceiling height. “Build up. Don’t waste storage space. Put off-season things • Sort by colours with higher up and rotate.” dedicated colour sections It’s rewarding to find exactly what and position coordinating you’re looking for, when you want it. handbags above each Organize all your favourite things and section. then you won’t feel so bad – or have A dressing room (above) resembles a stylish boutique, complete with chaise lounge, chandelier and area rug for to sulk in your new boudoir. decadent relaxing and clothes neatly arranged on hangers. Designed by Erica Gelman of House of Design. Be prepared to pay for upscale abodes Expect to spend $1.5-million and up if you are in the market for real estate suited to lavish living

esidential real estate in Toronto is es, services and terrace size and view. Lierman. The top-floor penthouse of real estate brokers say that most of Ras diverse as our population. For Entry-level units Boutique buildings that are linked Trump Tower is for sale at $33-million, their clients these days are local. the same price, you can purchase a with hotels up the ante given their but it’s been on the market for more “Some of our buyers are selling modest family home or an entry-level clock in between room service and chambermaids. than a year. their low-rise homes and reaching for luxury condo. The two markets serve What do you get at the entry level At the $10-million-plus mark, there luxury condos,” says Barbara Lawlor, very different sets of buyers. Young $1.5-million to of luxury? Units range from 600 to is more to choose from. One example president of Pat Baker Real Estate. couples who work downtown and 1,500 square feet and are usually is a $10.5-million suite at 50 Yorkville Downsizing boomers are trading want to start a family are looking for $2.5-million. lower to the ground. “A concierge is (the Four Seasons) with 5,036 square large family spreads for a high-end, detached homes. People searching a given, as is visitor parking, possibly feet, three bedrooms, walls of south- high-rise address downtown. for luxury condominiums are looking High-end units a valet and amenities, including gyms facing glass and similar amenities. Plus, luxury condos appeal to exec- not so much for space but a pampered and a common entertainment space In the boutique hotel condos, high- utives with a jet-set schedule and no lifestyle. The more you are willing to can jettison with catering kitchen, and a media end services include daily or weekly time for home maintenance. In some pay, the more lux life pampering you or theatre screen room,” says Janice cleaning with a change of linen, as instances, offshore buyers are invest- get in return. all the way to Fox, owner of Hazelton Real Estate, well as concierge-arranged dog walking in upscale downtown digs for their Developers, such as Menkes, Rose- one of the city’s prominent luxury ing, fresh flowers, a stocked fridge, children who are studying here. haven, Camrost-Felcorp and Cityzen, $28-million brokers. newspaper delivery and car care. “I “A few of my clients who bought at are delivering options to meet the At the upper end, the sky is almost had one client who told me, ‘I want the Four Seasons are from the Middle demands of discerning luxury buyers. the limit, with penthouses spanning hot towels delivered every morn- East or Far East,” says Ms. Fox. “With Generally, entry-level units clock in anywhere from 1,500 to 4,000 square ing and a cappuccino sitting on my all the amenities at the condo, they between $1.5-million to $2.5-million feet. “The $28-million one in the Four kitchen counter when I get up,’” know their children are being taken while high-end units can jettison all Seasons was unique at 9,000 square recalls Ms. Fox. care of.” There’s also room for parents the way to $28-million. Just look at feet,” says Pauline Lierman, director Direct access elevators which avoid who come to visit. “One parent asked the penthouse that sold in 2011 in of market research for Urbanation, a shared hallways are a coveted luxu- if there was a heli-pad on the top of the Four Seasons Hotel and Private company that has tracked the Toronto ry feature, as are heated bathroom the building they could use. I had to Residences. condo market for 35 years. floors; indoor barbecues (kitchen tell her in downtown Toronto helicop- With luxury condos, it’s all about Four Seasons has certainly set the grills on gas cook tops with powerful ters are used for emergency services.” location: Yorkville is hot, followed bar high. Are other condos creeping overhead venting); and high security Toronto is bursting with lux options, by some downtown pockets and up to surpass that price tag? “There’s with cameras in elevators and back- but even at the highest of the high the lakeshore. Other key factors are always a possibility of one-upmanship stair accesses. end there are a few limits when it square footage, ceiling height, finish- in these high-end buildings,” says Ms. Who’s buying these units? Luxury comes to the sky. The Rise of SuperluxuryTM

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markets, it’s the only city to record handle any request, from conjuring up sales growing with each passing year. the best theatre tickets to organizing In 2014, Toronto experienced an aston- birthday parties, researching travel ishing 37-per-cent jump in upscale plans and making airline reservations. residential purchases. “It’s something unheard of before in After researching leading condo- Toronto,” Feldman says. Toronto joins miniums and residents in Canada and In fact, Camrost-Felcorp trade- abroad, Feldman decided that Toronto marked the term “superluxury” to was ready to take a step up. Feldman describe this new level of what it calls learned from focus groups that home- “uncompromising living.” A superlux- PRIVATE PERKS owners in some of Canada’s ritziest ury residence provides its owners with neighbourhoods, such as Rosedale, the best home, plus first-rate location the superluxury Forest Hill and The Bridle Path, had and service. developed a taste for luxury condo- According to Feldman, Camrost-Fel- What kinds of perks miniums, too. corp’s 40 years of experience build- can a luxury concierge To cater to this class of client, Cam- ing exceptional and award-winning service offer? rost-Felcorp has designed a condo- residential communities in Toronto minium residence that is outstanding has all led to Yorkville Priate Estates. Here are a few examples condominium in every way. For starters, there is no “We’ve done a number of higher-end of what to expect at the better location for luxury living than buildings in the past and they’ve all Yorkville Private Estates: in trendy Yorkville. A neighbourhood been a learning process. Now we’ve that continues to lead the way in the got the opportunity to take it up a realms of designer shopping and notch,” he explains. › Arrangements for personal phenomenal dining, the aptly named shopping ranks “Mink Mile” gives visitors the best of All renderings in this section are artist’s concept Including personalized gift what the city has to offer. only and may not be accurate representations buying, complete with gift Inside Yorkville Private Estates every of the final product. Illustrations, prices, sizes, wrapping, and delivery Yorkville Private Estates sets a new standard inspired by detail has been considered for the and specifications are subject to change anywhere in the world. without notice. E.&.O.E comfort of its residents. Homeowners residences in other global cities will be able to enjoy the city’s grand › Event planning vistas from their suites on floors 26 Everything is taken care of, through 40. Floor-to-ceiling windows from decorations to catering in some of the rooms will provide to wine choice. ondon. Paris. New York. Dubai. unparalleled panoramas of the city These world-class cities are synon- — even in the bathroom, where › Procuring concert and Lymous with the highest prices in standalone soaker tubs are positioned theatre tickets real estate. But Toronto? A new con- to give bathers a prime view. You'll have the best seats in dominium development in Yorkville To furnish Yorkville Private Estates the house — every time. will add Toronto on the list. with the highest-quality finishes, Cam- Scheduled to open in 2018, Yorkville rost-Felcorp aimed high. Each unit › Specialized research services Private Estates, by Camrost-Felcorp will be outfitted with top-of-the-line If you need to know how will usher in an unprecedented level of brands to provide incomparable ease- to move your pets to a luxury. Residents of the exclusive 50 of-use, quality, look and feel. Kitchens European country or where to suites (starting at $1.5-million) will be will be outfitted in top-of-the-line Miele buy a rare item, contact your offered exquisite views in the centre of appliances, and include custom cabi- concierge for help. upscale Toronto, with an at-the-ready netry by Downsview Kitchens. Both concierge service and the finest fin- kitchens and bathrooms will feature › Travel arrangements ishes in every room. Yorkville Private flawless Waterworks fixtures. Whether it’s a weekend in Estates is set to wow. Tocreate their dream spaces, buyers a French castle, a stay in “Inspired by the luxury residential will work with designers to customize Iceland’s famous Ice Hotel, or real-estate markets in London, New their new residences to the level they a flight by private chartered York and Paris, we are establishing desire. Homeowners will be able jet with pick-up by vintage new standards of grandeur in the to choose from an exclusive set of luxury limo — leave it to the Toronto condominium sector,” says options for paint colours, flooring, concierge. David Feldman, president and CEO of door coverings and fixtures. For those Camrost-Felcorp, the visionary devel- who want to see the sleek and airy oper behind the building. For jet-set- design for themselves, they can visit ters who already maintain homes in the grand lifestyle experience centre at other parts of the world, this offering 155 Yorkville Ave by booking a private finally puts Toronto on the luxury appointment. real-estate map. Top location and finishes are a must, This year, Christie’s International This page: High above Toronto’s coveted Avenue Road and Cumberland but to truly offer “superluxury” to the This content was produced Real Estate reported that high-end Street corner, residents have the best views in the city — even from their world’s most discerning customers, by The Globe and Mail’s advertising properties sell faster in Toronto than superluxurious bathrooms (above). Artists’ rendering of the Yorkville a home must be able to take care of department in consultation with in any other city — with an average Private Estates’ 15-storey tower (right), a glittering form in glass, steel every wish and whim. At Yorkville Camrost Felcorp. The Globe’s editorial of just 31 days on the market. While and stone. Opposite page: From the kitchen (top) and living room (middle) Private Estates, concierge staff will be department was not involved Christie’s ranked Toronto 10th on a list to the outdoor terraces (bottom), no detail has been overlooked when it available around the clock. Specially in its creation. of the world’s top luxury real-estate comes to finishes, location, services and design. trained concierge staff will be able to LRE6 • SPONSOR CONTENT THE GLOBE AND MAIL • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER ,

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Customizing your condo Different rules apply when renovating high-rise suites

he convenience of condominium they want to make sure they maintain tor and upstairs. The same goes with outrageous high-rise renovations, then the floor plan you prefer, then Tliving can alleviate a lot of main- the value of the building as a whole.” every piece of material that is coming where he has done everything such the suite layout in terms of square tenance associated with a detached Always let people know what your out, into the elevator and down into as relocate bathrooms, laundry rooms footage. Then, if you have enough home. However, putting personal intentions are to avoid potential head- the vans. “There is a lot more time and more. He says it’s important to budget left, you can consider making touches on a condo to make it feel aches, he adds. “Your neighbours are as far as that material handling is go through the condo board, because changes to the condo. like home is not as simple as in the literally right on top, below or beside concerned, whether it be on the de- other suite owners will be affected by low-rise world. you, and you have to be cognizant molition side or on the building side. situations, such as water shut-offs or Above: The walls came down in a A dramatic rise in condo sales of that.” Spaces, such as common You aren’t just running in the front other service interruptions. formerly cramped condo (right) to over the past decade comes with areas, ultimately get affected, notes door. You’re loading and unloading For buyers looking for the perfect create a spectacular open concept increasing demand for renovations Mr. Charters, “because you’re work- a lot differently.” condo, Mr. Charters offers some ad- layout. EURODALE DEVELOPMENTS from owners wishing to customize ing with service elevators, dragging He notes that a project that would vice. “Cosmetics, such as finishes, can their suites. But the process is not as material through the hallway and in take three months on the low-rise be changed, but things like location Below: A renovation transformed a straightforward as you might think. and out of common elevators, which side could easily take four months on and layout often can’t.” nondescript living room (left) into Brendan Charters, development are often pre-booked. You really need the high-rise side. Your order of priorities should be a fabulous living and entertaining manager of Eurodale Developments to prepare to protect those common Mr. Charters has worked on some this: Look for a building you like, space. EURODALE DEVELOPMENTS and a board member of the Building elements to be respectful.” Industry and Land Development as- The time it takes to complete a sociation (BILD), lists many factors high-rise renovation compared to you should consider when planning a low-rise is something to consider a condo renovation. as well. “Unlike a low-rise house – let’s say “It is important to be cognizant it is in Toronto – it would be bound of the time and potential delays re- by City of Toronto bylaws.” He says lated to elevator scheduling and the they relate to issues including work length of the project time in general, start times and noise levels. because we can burn a lot of hours He explains that condos are like just working within the condo hours mini-cities, each subject to its own of operation,” Mr. Charters says. bylaws. For this reason, the condo Also, factor in the time it takes to board often needs to approve the coordinate the deliveries and get the work being done in any suite. material off the truck, into the eleva- “It’s like any bylaw. If you don’t go through the condo board – because you are bound by it as a resident of that building – the board can force you to undo the changes that you’ve gone ahead and done without their approval. If you refuse to do it,” Mr. Charters warns, “they could come after you for damages.” It’s defi- nitely worth going through the condo board, he adds. “Some buildings are more particular than others, and some buildings have finish or archi- tectural controls where you can’t do things, like rip out hardwood floors and put in cheap laminate because

per cent compared to the first three How high will home prices go? quarters of 2014. “We are on track for 100,000 sales this year, which is No end in sight to spiralling real estate costs, say industry experts certainly a record in terms of transac- tions.” Mr. Mercer and Mr. Tuckey believe s GTA home prices continue their and $418,603 for a condo apartment. Brian Tuckey, president and CEO of • Historically low interest rates. that warnings of the housing bubble Arecord-smashing upward trajec- In the 905 region, the average price the Building Industry and Land De- about to burst in the GTA are over- tory, buyers and sellers alike are ask- in September for a single family house velopment association (BILD), which • Immigration. The GTA welcomes stated. Despite this, an August CMHC ing: Is there an end in sight? topped out at $732,852, a semi- represents new home builders, land about 100,000 immigrants or report says that Toronto’s housing Not in the foreseeable future, an- detached unit came in at $497,775, a developers and renovators across 35,000 new households every market is now facing a “high” risk of swer realtors and builders. Demand townhouse at $448,930 and a condo the GTA, points out that the price year. correction as prices outstrip income is too high, resale and new homes apartment at $307,295. gap between low-rise and high-rise growth. continue to be in short supply and GTA-wide, the average price of homes has been steadily growing • Scarcity. Despite the August boost Also, a new Bank of Montreal survey interest rates remain low. a detached house reached a new for 10 years. In 2005, the spread was in the number of houses hitting says that nearly one in six Canadians “On both counts – price and num- high of $819,853. Year-over-year, this $100,000 and now it is $450,000, the market, there continues to be a would be unable to afford a $500 ber of sales – we’ll see a record year in represents an 11.2 per cent increase. signifying a real demand for low-rise shortage of listings. monthly increase in their mortgage 2015 and prices will continue to trend Meanwhile, the average price of a housing. payments, which would happen in upward,” says Jason Mercer, director condo apartment in the GTA rang in • Investors are snapping up condos the event of a three per cent interest of market analysis for the Toronto Real at $385,623, up five per cent year- There are a number of factors driving when they hit the market, then rate jump. Estate Board (TREB). over-year. the GTA housing market, including: selling them upon completion, Mr. Tuckey feels that municipalities Based on a trend first seen in Au- helping to drive up prices. could do more to alleviate the high gust, when the growth in new listings SALES AVERAGE PRICE cost of housing by pre-designating outstripped sales for the first time in • Unlike other parts of the country, and rezoning land on transit corridors many years, there may be some relief January to September 2006 65,756 $351,837.00 the economy and jobs picture in and green field areas, which helps for resale home buyers. January to September 2007 73,488 $371,593.00 Greater Toronto is buoyant with control costs passed on to buyers. “If this continues over the next year, January to September 2008 63,247 $382,784.00 strong fundamentals. He adds that getting critical infra- it may alleviate some of the pent-up January to September 2009 66,069 $388,116.00 structure, such as waste-water sys- demand,” says Mr. Mercer, though A Real Insider housing study says tems and public transit, in place before it won’t likely be enough to halt the January to September 2010 68,729 $429,428.00 that in August, new low-rise construc- development applications come on push in prices. “It is still very much a January to September 2011 70,193 $463,779.00 tion prices across the GTA were up 16 stream would also help new housing seller’s market in low-rise.” January to September 2012 69,599 $498,694.00 per cent to $800,099 from the same reach market quicker. A TREB report released in October January to September 2013 68,697 $519,803.00 time period in 2014. High-rise units “The fundamentals in the Toronto said the average price of a resale January to September 2014 73,377 $563,818.00 came it at an average of $450,837, up region are very strong and the chal- home in Toronto for September was one percent from the previous year. lenge is to find land that meets the a stunning $1.05-million for a de- January to September 2015 80,331 $621,119.00 Mr. Mercer notes that more than price people can afford. There is a very tached house, $740,373 for a semi- SOURCE: TORONTO REAL ESTATE BOARD 80,000 resale homes were sold in large demand for low-rise pushing a detached, $527,257 for a townhouse the first nine months of 2015, up 9.5 constrained market.” THE GLOBE AND MAIL • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER , SPONSOR CONTENT • LRE7

For more information visit Globeandmail.com/partners/adv/luxuryrealestate Modern love in York Mills Crafthouse brings contemporary architecture to intimate enclave

he growing interest in modern DNA to build like that and they don’t Tarchitecture can be seen on prac- understand either the materials, the tically every street in most Toronto proportions or the design, the results neighbourhoods. The form seems to are not great. work equally well on narrow lots next “The Sorbara group has made to skinny Victorian houses, on wide a commitment to not just design lots beside rambling clapboard beach homes of a very high calibre, but homes, or as striking counterpoint also to build them with skill and to stolid Edwardian bricks in North craftsmanship.” Toronto. Crafthouse is using timeless mate- Such interiors are awash in natural rials – such as limestone, brick and light and feature uncluttered inte- metal – in order to ensure longevity rior details. With their ability to offer of both the building and the style. sweeping views through a home from It takes time, money, skill and com- front to back, these homes are draw- mitment to design and build these ing urbanites to contemporary archi- homes well, Mr. Johnston says. It tecture in droves, says Paul Johnston, starts with good design – an un- real estate agent for Sorbara’s new derstanding of proportion, scale Crafthouse development in York Mills. and durable materials in a modern “Amongst design-savvy buyers, vernacular – and goes down the line there’s been a growing interest in and to hiring the very best contractors. appetite for intelligently designed and Hence the name, Crafthouse: The well-built modern homes,” he says. homes are built by craftspeople. “Many people are buying and restor- What’s unique about the project is ing the mid-century homes in nearby the number of homes, with 11 in one Don Mills, so this enclave of houses is enclave, each built the same way, but very appealing.” with slight differences in elevation, The modern form is also attractive façade and materials. Mr. Johnston for its simple open-floor plans and says it’s extremely rare to find such uncluttered material palettes that are a development with several custom- easier to maintain. However, that built modern homes together. Mostly, doesn’t mean the homes lack detail. they are one-offs built as infill in more “Instead of superfluous spaces, traditional neighbourhoods. especially more formal ones, the – and even the air ducts have been For Sorbara, neighbourhood con- triumph of good contemporary hous- tucked between joists so there’s text is important. Over the past de- ing is the efficiency and quality of no need for bulkheads. All of these cade, the company has been devel- space rather than quantity of space,” considerations contribute to a clean, oping condo projects of a modern, explains Mr. Johnston. uncluttered interior vista.” contemporary design, such as 400 At Crafthouse, both formal and in- Today’s family functions differently Wellington, Broadview Lofts and the formal areas are integral but separate than it did in the past, says the proj- Brewery Lofts. But this is the first low- parts of the whole home. The same ect’s architect Peter Vishnovsky. The rise development in a contemporary goes for indoors and out. Patios at goal was to ensure family interaction modern theme. the rear of the house can be seen while retaining some private space Because Crafthouse has been from the front entry through large to withdraw and do other activities developed near Don Mills, the his- windows and glass doors. The formal separately. tory of contemporary work in that living room at the front of the houses, The cornerstone of modern design, neighbourhood informed Sorbara. while set apart, is visually connected Mr. Johnston explains, “is the rela- Mr. Johnston says, “Crafthouse D, to the rest of the living space, thereby tionship between kitchen, dining and for example, was designed with a encouraging its use. The two-sided family room so they flow together. sloped roof that mimics some of fireplace between the family area at But there is still need for private space the asymmetrical roofs of the 1950s’ the back and the living room at the – a living room for adults to entertain, and 1960s’ Don Mills bungalows. On front does not touch walls, leaving a flexible second floor plan with den either side of the new cul-de-sac that a gap on the outside wall, while the for children to do homework.” cuts through the enclave, the houses “over-expressed hall” on the other The recent interest in contemporary have definite references to that style.” side ensures an openness between architecture has resulted in some very Anything well-built is in demand, the areas, says Mr. Johnston. good designs, Mr. Johnston adds, so no surprise that half the project “Gone are the usual embellish- Crafthouse in York Mills will offer 11 homes with superb contemporary but it’s also led to “poor imitations, is sold. Prices start at $3-million for ments one finds in traditional hous- architecture (top) and open-concept interiors awash in natural light (above) with builders rushing out to meet the homes ranging from 4,400 to 5,600 ing – crown mouldings, for example with spaces that flow seamlessly from one to the next. demand. When it’s not in someone’s square feet on 50- to 65-foot lots. LRE8 • SPONSOR CONTENT THE GLOBE AND MAIL • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER ,

For more information visit Globeandmail.com/partners/adv/luxuryrealestate Pairing up and paring down Dealing with merged, inherited or simply too much stuff takes compromise and communication

usan Alexander remembers stand- Sing in the formal dining room of her parents’ 8,000-square-foot home and feeling overwhelmed. Her 90-year-old father had died six months before and she and her four siblings were tasked with sorting through three generations of stuff. “I stood in the middle of the dining room looking at these teetering piles of china, glasses, vases, platters and Corningware casserole dishes, think- ing what am I going to do with all this crap?” There were many beautiful things collected over decades, but Ms. Alex- ander and her siblings had their own homes full of their own stuff, so the only answer was to sell or donate. Four years later, Ms. Alexander is still eliminating. “Now really, what is one person going to do with four silk kimonos, no matter how exquisite or rare?” Mimi Ng, vice-president of sales and marketing for Menkes Corporation, understands the emotional swells of decluttering but for different rea- sons. When she and her boyfriend, both in their 40s, decided to move in together, they had to decide what to keep and what to get rid of. “In your 20s, all you need to cast off is the university dorm things,” she says, “but at this age, I have ac- cumulated really wonderful things. My boyfriend and I both have nice dining tables, so whose do you choose?” What helped Ms. Ng was keeping her eye on the positives – the excite- ment of building a home together – and her boyfriend’s observation that it made more sense to “start clean, Interior decorator Mary Bannet rather than trying to force our stuff of Just the Thing helped a client to work.” pare down her furnishings and The process spurred the couple to family heirlooms (above) when communicate and negotiate. “We she downsized from a townhouse ended up talking about other things to an apartment. Iconic Maguire in the process, like are we going to rattan chairs from the ‘60s were be the entertaining couple, or are we updated with striped upholstery and going to be homebodies?” teamed with a new clean lined sofa Ms. Ng has seen similar situations in navy. Mismatched vintage end play out in Menkes’ sales centres. tables were topped by ‘30s lamps “I’ve seen tons of buyers go through from her grandparents’ home and the experience and often they end complemented with a new brass and up working with a professional. You glass coffee table. A new Persian almost need an objective third party. unified the colour scheme. It’s hard for me to tell my boyfriend that I hate a chair and easier for an objective party to come and help you Designer Bryon Patton, who worked talk pros and cons of each piece.” on Menkes’ Gibson Square, has expe- Professional organizer Rosalind Tan- rience helping clients make sense of talo of Simply Home wasn’t prepared their inherited, merged and accumu- for how much psychology was in- lated things. volved in the job. “It’s an emotional One client inherited a huge silver challenge for anyone when they have service they weren’t going to use but to part with things,” she says. “As couldn’t bear to part with, so Mr. Pat- an organizer and downsize expert, I ton filled large glass urns with soup can sort through things, but decid- tureens, tea sets and cutlery, added a ing what to keep and what to toss is glass top and turned it into a conversa- about emotions and requires a softer tion piece dining table. touch in guiding people to make those When your style is clean and mod- decisions. “ ern but you have inherited accesso- As a remedy, Ms. Tantalo groups ries, Mr. Patton suggests containing similar things together in rooms so everything together. “I’d rather have people can see what they have and a shelving unit packed and keep the walk around picking out what they rest of the space uncluttered. Trays will keep. She also provides a little are also good – 30 vintage bottles on design coaching – re-envisioning the a tray look much better than scattered space and pieces – as part of setting all over the place.” people up in a new home. She also Another client inherited a bunch of recommends built-ins because they Oriental carpets, so Mr. Patton layered can take advantage of the linear height them on top of one another, then in- for storage. structed his client to call in six months She also gets a floor plan of the new so he could layer in a different pattern. place and measurements of favourite Mr. Patton is also “ruthless” with his items, then develops a list of what clients. “I tell them their kids do not will fit. Ms. Tantalo also provides a want this stuff and the best thing is little “design coaching,” envisioning to get rid of it now rather than make the space and pieces. She also recom- them go through this process. I have mends built-ins to take advantage of friends who had to disperse five gen- linear height for storage. erations of stuff and by the end, they A major part of inheriting items, were hating their parents.” merging households, or downsizing Ms. Alexander kept only things things is donating. Ms. Tantalo finds she knew she’d use, like linen sheets that people feel better about donat- from the 1940s, Depression-era wine ing because it saves time and money glasses and a Victorian side table. in the long run rather than having her She’s still trying to find a home for team set up online sales. In the Gibson Square model suite (above), designer Bryon Patton displayed vintage silverware in a tabletop urn. the four silk kimonos, however.

From Page Wine attention to detail. but it’s certainly a cost-effective way good places to store several hundred “It’s nice if we get involved at the to store a small collection.” bottles of wine and then have a place building stage because certain re- Mr. LaRose says another simple and to stop by any time with friends,” says quirements for mechanicals have to relatively cost-effective solution is to Mr. Morris. “It’s a popular option for be considered,” Mr. LaRose says. “We buy four or five wine fridges and line people who live outside Toronto to need power, a spot for drain lines them up in a row. “We can build cables have wine in town. If you’ve gone to and exhaust.” Ideally, his company on the end, a header and crown mold- the Air Canada Centre, you could pop engages with a condo as it’s being ing and maybe a base so it appears as over and open a $500 bottle of wine built in order to design the refrigera- if it’s a built-in, custom-made cabinet to enjoy.” tion and mechanical systems. “Then, and they just plug [it] in the wall.” we can come in after the drywall has THIN THE HERD gone up to finish the space and install MAKE USE OF STORAGE CLUBS One of the least popular solutions racking.” If you’re short on space and wouldn’t for a downsizing collector is to sell If that’s not possible, Mr. LaRose dream of thinning your collection, off some bottles and drink what has says there are custom options for fin- private wine management facilities already aged. “There’s a lot of enjoy- ished condo units with no wine stor- are available to house your valuable ment and charm in buying a case of age. “Some clients sacrifice a storage vino in secure, climate-controlled wine and enjoying it over five to 10 closet or spare bedroom for their wine conditions. years, discovering how the taste pro- collection. It’s challenging to sort out Iron Gate has a vault 20 feet un- file changes over that time,” says Mr. the mechanicals, but it can be done.” derground for ideal aging conditions. LaRose, who then adds, “but there’s a Mr. Morris did exactly that in his They offer to collectors a barcode- lot of wine that’s great to enjoy now.” own basement. “We had a bathroom based inventory system, delivery roughed in and I built a little cellar and pick-up. In contrast, Fine Wine for myself.” Reserve has climate-controlled wine Gary LaRose of Rosehill Wine He says that a 60-square-foot space lockers for self-storage and custodial Cellars says a storage closet or is ample for 300 to 400 bottles. “If storage by the case. Both clubs boast extra bedroom (right) can be you’re going to do it yourself, you’d elegant spaces for members to enjoy converted for wine storage. need to buy a wine cooling unit to their wine. A 60-square-foot space can hold control temperature and humidity, “Wine management facilities are 300 to 400 bottles. DIETER HESSEL THE GLOBE AND MAIL • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER , SPONSOR CONTENT • LRE9

For more information visit Globeandmail.com/partners/adv/luxuryrealestate

TAKING THE LEGWORK Fine dining at the doorstep OUT OF FINE DINING Celebrated Yorkville eatery to open location at foot of posh Oakville condominium project In addition to Sotto Sotto, The Randall residents have a number of singular restaurants within walking distance of their Randall Street address.

SEASONS RESTAURANT 134 Lakeshore Rd. E. Located in the historic Anderson Block in the heart of downtown Oakville, the building dates back to the late-1800s when it housed the Anderson Bank. An extensive but moderately priced wine list joins a constantly changing menu of creative culinary offerings.

JONATHANS FINE DINING 120 Thomas St. Consistently voted “best all- around restaurant,” this 30-year Oakville business features an outdoor patio and seven dining rooms, plus exclusive private dining in a wine cellar boasting one of the most diverse wine lists in southern Ontario.

7 ENOTECA 216 Lakeshore Rd. E. An Italian eatery with an artisanal flair celebrating fresh, hen selecting the anchor ten- its share of luxury. Last December, fire gutted the Popular Yorkville eatery Sotto local ingredients, 7 Enoteca is Want of the prestigious Randall With 36 units of affluent empty Yorkville location, casuing more than Sotto Ristorante will open a second the neighbourhood’s upscale Residences, developers at Rosehaven nesters above them and businesses $1-million damage. After extensive location at the foot of the upscale pizza parlour. It offers exclusive Homes knew that not just any up- with equally prestigious pedigrees renovation, Sotto Sotto re-opened Randall Residences in Oakville Italian wines and authentic scale restaurant would do. in the neighbourhood, Sotto Sotto in February – and was instantly re- (above), bringing a gourmet dining pizza Napoletana. Development principals Silvio and Oakville is set to fit right in. “The embraced by its devotees. experience to enhance residents’ Marco Guglietti didn’t hesitate to restaurant will be an intimate one, “Back at the new and better than lifestyles. Below, Sotto Sotto OLIVER’S OF OAKVILLE reach out to their favourite Toronto with a private room available and an ever @SottoSotto Ristorante. If you recently catered a party at the sales 141 Lakeshore Rd. E. hotspot to gauge their interest in outside terrace for warm days,” says haven’t… DO. #tgif #date night #@ centre, giving buyers a sneak peek Quality of service and an opening a second location at the foot Ms. Weeks. benmulroney,” Jessica Mulroney of the tasty treats to come. award-winning wine list of their posh property in downtown In anticipation of the 2017 opening, posted on Instagram. are what set this four-star Oakville. It didn’t hurt that the own- the restaurant has been catering all of Ms. Weeks says that when Sotto restaurant apart for special ers of Yorkville’s famed Sotto Sotto The Randall events to serve as a small Sotto opens at The Randall, residents dining occasions. Dishes, Ristorante happened to be close per- taste of what’s to come for residents. can take advantage of the restau- like loin of Arctic caribou or sonal friends. “Sotto Sotto specializes in using rant’s proximity for informal in-home tenderloin of buffalo, are “The Rocca family, having roots fresh ingredients and cooking simple dining, cocktail parties or catered standard for discriminating in Oakville, knew the area well and Italian classic and traditional dishes,” dinner parties in their suites. diners. loved the project immediately,” says says Ms. Weeks. Many Randall residents are trading Heather Weeks, marketing manager The restaurant is expected to bring more spacious homes for the conve- MYE for Rosehaven Homes. the same quality of food and hospi- nience of amenities at their fingertips, 143 Church St. It’s shaping up to be a match made tality found in its Yorkville location to she adds. “Having fresh, prepared Executive Chef Motoaki in luxury. Oakville. Soon after Italian-born chef food at your doorstep is perfect for Aoki opened Oakville’s first The Randall is the picture of opu- Marisa Rocca opened Sotto Sotto in clientele enjoying the finer things.” Japanese restaurant in 1987 at lence. Set in tony downtown Oakville, 1993, it quickly became an exclusive Units at the Randall start at just the invitation of then-mayor it boasts a lush Parisian-inspired fa- gathering spot for local and visiting over $1.95-million for 1,800 square Harry Barrett. Born and raised çade on the outside and over-the-top celebrities. Everyone from Brad Pitt feet, including a 1,413-square-foot ter- in Japan, Chef Aoki serves Ferris Rafauli-designed finishes on the to Drake to NBA player Darrell Walker race. Penthouses start at more than fresh, authentic Japanese inside. This is luxury like Oakville has to Kevin O’Leary call Sotto Sotto a $2-million and go up to $3.4-million cuisine. never seen – and Oakville has seen favourite. for larger suites.