Sanctuaries in the sky
Top luxury condo trends
There’s a quietness that comes with the wealth on display in Toronto’s newest high- end luxury condominium residences. From the moment the direct elevator door slides smoothly to the side and you step into the grand marble foyer of a private suite, opulence is as much about how you feel as it is about every exquisite detail you see.
“Upon entry of your suite, you want to create that wow factor, but you also want to feel a sense of effortlessness and sanctuary,” says Kelly Cray, principal creative at U31 interior architecture and design studio, whose recent work includes Altree’s Forest Hill Private Residences and Alterra’s 321 Davenport.
Design trends at the top tier of Toronto’s condo market are merging to deliver an understated elegance, says Cray. Designers are combining gleaming, neutral marbles, natural stones, porcelain slabs, top- tier engineered hardwood in wider planks, and gorgeous matte metallic elements to create what he calls “harmonious compositions.” The end result is a distinctive, livable space that exudes sophisticated, comfortable charm.
“There’s an art to being able to restrain design and focus on materials, focus on experience, and the journey through these spaces,” says Studio Munge principal and designer Alessandro Munge. He’s working with Lanterra Developments to bring Yorkville’s 50 Scollard to life. “It’s our responsibility as designers to create spaces that can be remembered 100 years from now.”
So how exactly will it look — and feel — to live in the lap of luxury in 2020 and beyond? Here are just a few trends topping the list in new developments.
SHARED SPACES THAT FEEL PRIVATE
The trick in designing posh amenities, says Munge, lies in allowing for intimate moments to occur in public places. His vision for the sleek indoor- outdoor pool and hot tub area at 50 Scollard is wrapped in limestone walls, low- lit walkways, gleaming fire pits and highperformance wood decking. The gym is outfitted with partitioned areas suitable for discreetly working with personal trainers and in addition to high-grade digital equipment, there’s a punching bag and treatment room. Large party rooms are out and private upscale dining rooms for 20- 30 guests are in.
SPA-LIKE BATHROOMS DESIGNED FOR TWO
With in-floor radiant heating, glass- framed showers with heated benches, warming towel racks, double vanities and free-standing soaker tubs with a city view, luxury ensuite bathrooms are turning up the dial on pampering. “I love a vanity that looks like a hotel floating vanity, very luxe with towels folded underneath,” says Ali Budd, president and principal designer at Ali Budd Interiors, responsible for the interiors at The Rhodes by Blackdoor Development Co. “Lotions, potions and tonics” are hidden behind a lustrous touch panel medicine cabinet, she adds, because there’s “nothing more luxurious than having a special place for everything you need.”
FINE ROOMS FOR FINE WINES
From an integrated wine fridge in the kitchen, to a wine wall that divides living and dining space, and a temperature-controlled wine library in the amenity area that comes with sommelier service: love of fine wine is
uncorking a new trend in luxury condo living. The idea is to replicate the wine cellar experience of a large private estate, says Munge.
OPULENT TERRACES
Relaxing outdoor spaces are non-negotiable in newer luxury condominiums, says Budd. Owners expect beautifully landscaped retreats outfitted with ambient fire pits, grills, pizza ovens and top-of-the-line weatherproof furniture. When space allows, they’re adding spas, outdoor gym equipment and showers.
STRIKING YET FUNCTIONAL STORAGE
Imagine personalized closets with room to hang bags, display shoes or lay out clothing in a way that’s so elegant, the doors can be glass; or stunning illuminated shelving floating between pillars of gold in front of a rich marble wall.
“At one time you wanted to hide everything, but now it’s about curating your space,” says Cray.
PUSHBUTTON CONVENIENCE
Smart technology is playing an increasingly crucial role. In addition to motorized blinds and window coverings, designers are using remote controlled consoles to conceal large screen TVS or bar areas, reminiscent of a “speakeasy” vibe, says Cray.
Bespoke kitchens are now incorporating the latest in smart appliances, making it possible to preheat the oven or start the dishwasher remotely — or even ask Alexa to prepare a cup of coffee.
LAVISH LAUNDRY
Full- scale laundry rooms with two washers, two dryers, a full steam unit, sink, counters and foldout drying racks are trending, finished as lavishly as kitchens and baths.