Distillery District

Average sold price freehold: N/A

Average sold price condo (2009): $356,354; (2010): $381,939; (2011): $405,258; (2012): $390,357

Boundaries: Eastern Ave — Gardiner Expressway, D.V.P. — Parliament St

Closest Subway Stations: King and Union

The Distillery District is rich in history and Victorian era industrial architecture. Many of the red-brick heritage buildings, once owned by the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery, have been converted into quaint courtyards, cafés, high-end furniture shops and restaurants. The compact neighbourhood is comprised of only 10 or so streets but it certainly has charm and character, especially after dark when the street lamps turn on — the cobblestone streets glow.

The West Donlands, just west of the D.V.P. – a historically industrial area, was vacant land up until 2011. The city of Toronto is currently developing the land as an athletes village for the 2015 Pan Am games.  Once the Pan Am games are complete,  the revitalization of the area will ultimately lead to the development of new communities.

Real Estate: In the midst of the Discovery District are a few residential buildings that integrate themselves very well into the historic surrounding. The Pure Spirit Lofts on Mill St is a complex developed by the award winning Cityscape — featuring an outdoor pool on the podium with a clear view of the CN tower and city skyline. The Knitting Mill Lofts on Queen St E were converted from an old warehouse.

Parks: Corktown Common, east of the Bayview extension and south of King St W, something for everyone. The playgrounds, splash pad, athletic field and open lawns can be used for informal gatherings or organized activities. The flexible outdoor space, tables, benches, bbq and fireplace offer welcoming spots for people to meet and socialize.

Hot Spots:

The Boiler House — 55 Mill St #46
The Boiler House Restaurant offers a succulent chophouse style menu with in an industrial chic setting. The large outdoor cabanas feature elegant furniture with billowing curtains and oversized parasols, perfect for after-work drinks.

Distill Gallery — 55 Mills St #47
Distill shows the individual handmade works by over 100 Canadian artists, craftspeople and designers contributing to the contemporary material and visual culture.

Akroyd Furniture Artscape — 55 Mill St #74
The studio designs and builds one-off pieces of custom furniture from sustainable local hardwood and mixed media.