If Toronto has a midtown hub - a second heart of the city that acts as a nexus for transit, entertainment, residences, business, and retail - it is undeniably Yonge & Eglinton. Today, the area is a vibrant and affluent neighbourhood, offering the perfect bend of urban convenience and outdoor space, but how did it evolve from cattle fields to Castlefield? Let’s take a look back at the history of Yonge and Eglinton to see how the uptown downtown came to be.

Early 19th century
The neighbourhood is settled by Europeans who establish the farming village of Eglinton. The village becomes part of the largest cattle grazing region in Upper Canada. source

1874

In 1874, a Masonic Hall is built on the northwest corner of Yonge and Montgomery. The first floor is rented to the Township of York for Council meetings. In 1881, a new Town Hall is built on the site, and from 1909 to 1912, the area’s first high school is housed on the second floor. source

1885
On January 26, 1885 The Metropolitan Street Railway begins operating a horse-drawn streetcar route that runs along Yonge Street between the crosstown CPR rail line (near Summerhill Station) and Eglinton Avenue. Rapid housing development soon follows. source
 

1890
As the population grows, the area incorporates and becomes the town of North Toronto. source

1912
North Toronto is annexed to the city of Toronto. source

1913

Oulcott’s Hotel (the former site of Montgomery’s Tavern, famous for being the starting point of the 1837 Rebellion) is purchased by the government and refurbished for use as Postal Station K. Today, Postal Station K is home to Stock T.C., a gourmet grocer and neighbourhood hot spot. source
 

1920s to 1940s

Construction on new houses continues to accommodate the growing population. Architecture consists of Tudor and Craftsman bungalows, and semi-detached Victorian, Georgian and Colonial styles. source

1922

The Capitol Theatre opens on the northwest corner of Yonge and Castlefield. Built for Ronald McClelland, a native of Kingston, Jamaica, the theatre features vaudeville shows and silent films. What it doesn’t include is a candy bar, a concession to the neighbouring Laura Secord shop, just outside the entrance. A refreshment stand won’t be added until 1954. source and source

1932

Fire Station 134 (formerly TFD 28) is built at 16 Montgomery Avenue. The architecture is designed to match the surrounding homes, and today, remains largely unchanged. source

1933

Plans are submitted for a theatre on Yonge, near Manor Road. The simple, unadorned architecture by Kirk Hyslop reflects the overall feeling of the recent Great Depression. Originally named the Oriole Theatre, it is later renamed the somewhat redundant, Cinema Theatre, and eventually, the International Cinema. In 1947, Shakespeare’s “Henry V” plays for a record-breaking nineteen weeks. The theatre is decorated in the colours of the French flag to mark the occasion. source

1954
The Yonge subway line opens its first twelve stations. It is Canada’s first subway and runs 4.6 miles (7.4 kilometres) from Union to Eglinton. The project costs $50.5 million and uses 420 tons of cast iron pipe, 1.4 million bags of cement, 15 million b. feet of lumber, and 10,000 tons of structural steel. source

1961

The first set of plans is drawn up for the Yonge Subway northern extension. The plans are modified several times before being approved by the city in 1967 with new stations at Lawrence, York Mills, and Sheppard. Two years later, a decision is made to further extend the line to Finch. It will be another few years before the line is operational, with the first section opening in March 1973, and the second, one year later, in 1974. source

1960s/70s
The area continues to grow. New office buildings, condominiums, stores, and cinemas bring a large population influx. source

1974
Construction of the Yonge Eglinton Centre finishes. The complex includes a 23-storey rental apartment building at 411 Duplex Avenue, followed by 20 Eglinton West, an apartment building at 33 Orchardview, an office tower at 2300 Yonge Street, and an entire block of retail at the base. source

1980s

50s-inspired diner, Lime Rickey’s, becomes an iconic establishment on Eglinton. Patrons flock to the venue for classic plates, jukebox tunes, and deluxe desserts like “the kitchen sink” – a gargantuan ice cream sundae where 16 scoops of ice cream disappear under a thick layer of crushed up Kit Kat, Smarties, and other assorted candy bars. source  

1998
Metropolitan Toronto and the six municipalities amalgamate into the City of Toronto. Yonge & Eglinton becomes the new "midtown" of the city (a role previously held by Bloor Street). source

2006

Yonge and Eglinton is designated an "urban growth centre" by the provincial government, with the goal of creating a complete, inclusive, livable community with a variety of housing options, community services, building types, public spaces, shopping and economic opportunities, parks, and green spaces. People are already flocking to the neighbourhood, lured by the cheeky moniker, “Young & Eligible,” named for its large demographic of young, urban, stylish professionals. source

2008

Metro announces plans to consolidate the company’s variety of food brands under the Metro banner. This applies to all the Dominion stores in the Toronto area, including the one at the Yonge Eglinton Centre, which has been part of the site for more than three decades. Another long-time tenant? Tamblyn Drugs, one of the original businesses on the northwest corner. They will eventually be sold to Loblaws, then UK pharmacy chain Boots, and finally, Pharma Plus, which still has a location on site today. source

2014

The TTC celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Yonge subway line. Riders note the marked difference between the original cost of a token (10 cents) and the cost today ($2.70). source

2016

Work is complete on the massive renovation of Yonge Eglinton Centre. The project is an impressive example of urban renewal, revitalizing the public realm at the northwest corner with a 46,000-square-foot retail expansion, a 51,000-square-foot interior retail renovation, a 209,000-square-foot office tower expansion and renovation, a publicly accessible green rooftop patio, open year-round, and a 4-storey glass atrium that now functions as a neighbourhood mini-hub. source
 

2024
The new light rail line, Line 5 Eglinton, is scheduled to open, with 25 stops between Kennedy in the east and Mount Dennis in the west. The route will link to 54 bus routes, three TTC subway stations and GO lines. source

What's better than finding the perfect apartment – beautifully appointed, filled with natural light, and located in a prime, transit-friendly area. Picture upgraded finishes and eco-friendly features like green roofs, EV charging stations, individual in-suite climate controls, and ENERGY STAR appliances. How about discovering that this same apartment comes with an enticing lineup of amenities, designed to create a lifestyle that is so much more than just a place to live. This is not just an apartment; it is your dream home come true.
 

From plush private theatres and snow-free outdoor pet runs, to 24-hour maintenance response guarantees, the thoughtful amenity programming offered by KG Group makes modern urban living more attractive than ever. Take a look at just some of the incredible social spaces sprinkled throughout our communities.

Pet-Friendly Spaces for Four-Legged Friends

From 18 Erskine to Harrison, North Toronto to North York, every KG Group community is pet-friendly, welcoming all family members, including the ones with four paws. Whether it’s a friendly greeting (and maybe even a delicious treat) at the front desk, an outdoor snow-free dog run to keep you and your pooch happy and dry during the winter months, or a pet “spaw” for a thorough clean, we’ve got spaces that will keep tails wagging.

Break a Sweat Without Ever Leaving Home

There was a time when a building gym conjured images of a dark space in the basement, with a rusty weight bench, a stationary bike, and some decades-old dumbbells. Those days are long gone. Today, all KG Group communities offer state-of-the-art fitness studios that make it easier than ever to incorporate fitness and wellness into your daily routine.

Enjoy complimentary fitness classes at several of our buildings including Harrison, Roehampton, and 18 Erskine, live-streaming top trainers from the around the world on a 100-inch screen. At 18 Erskine you’ll also find a YOU! Fitness Centre, equipped with a motion cage, boxing simulator, treadmills, ellipticals, weights, spin bikes, and a Yoga/TRX Studio. After your workout, relieve sore muscles in the steam room, or gliding through the waters of one of our indoor pools. For those seeking relaxation and wellness, the options are endless.

Experience the Urban Backyard

Apartment living doesn’t mean giving up outdoor space. Quite the opposite. Grill masters will find a place to fire up the barbeque at Harrison and 18 Erskine on the outdoor terraces. At The Oaks, residents enjoy a stunning 1-acre park and water feature. Roehampton and Canyon offer a private sundeck to soak up some rays. Canyon even has an outdoor pool, complete with a lifeguard, because safety comes first. There are so many ways to enjoy alfresco activity, all year round. Welcome to the even greater outdoors.

Connect, Socialize & Entertain with Ease

As humans, we thrive on connection. That is why every KG Group community has a Resident Service Coordinator dedicated to organizing fun events, educational programs, and helpful services that turn neighbours into friends and build a true sense of community. Plus, every building features a variety of inviting amenity spaces where you can connect, socialize, and entertain with ease. Come join us and experience the warmth of community living!
 

Discover fireside lounges and comfy theatres, where you can binge watch your favourite series thanks to complimentary Netflix and a deluxe A/V system. There are Chef’s Kitchens and private dining rooms. There are business centres, conference rooms, and coworking studios for those times when duty calls. And, for the youngest residents, a Kidz Zone where little kids can dream big in a colourful environment, designed to stimulate young minds. Best of all, every KG Group property offers free visitor parking, so you can invite your nearest and dearest to share the fun.

Exceptional Service and Peace of Mind

Beyond the amazing lounges, flowering gardens, swimming pools, studios, and more, perhaps the most enticing amenity offered by KG Group isn’t a physical space at all, but the peace of mind that comes with exceptional service and 50 years of experience. 24/7/365, our team is working to provide security, maintenance, and the white-glove concierge service that makes every resident feel like a valued member of an exclusive club.

In the end, the perfect apartment is more than just a place to live, it’s a place that fosters a sense of community, wellbeing, and convenience, and elevates your quality of life. When you choose to rent with KG Group, you are unlocking a lifestyle that goes beyond your front door, enriching your everyday experiences. With us, better living makes every moment feel like home. When you move in to a KG Group community, you become a part of the KG Group family.

The clocks have changed, the days are getting longer, Spring has officially sprung! While it may be tempting to head outside and enjoy the warmer weather, a little cleaning now will go a long way to keeping your rental apartment clean and comfortable all season long. We’ve rounded up 5 simple maintenance tasks to check off your list. Open up the windows, let in some fresh air, and let’s get to it.

Deep clean the dishwasher.
A good cleaning will not only remove buildup and help keep your dishwasher running smoothly, it will also eliminate any unpleasant odours or those annoying spots that can sometimes appear on your glassware. The process is simple.

Step one: fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with one cup of distilled white vinegar, place it on the top rack and run a cycle (without detergent or dishes).

Step two: for an extra clean, after running the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda in the bottom of the empty dishwasher and run a short or quick cycle.

Clean the lint trap in your dryer.
A full lint trap can increase drying time and is also a serious fire hazard. In addition to a quick cleaning with every load, now is a good time to give it a deep clean.

First, remove any lint. Next, wash the lint trap gently using a soft brush, warm water, and a mild dish soap. While that’s drying, vacuum the slot to remove any excess lint and debris. When the lint trap is dry, put it back and voilà! A better drying experience.

Rotate & flip your mattress
Did you know that regularly rotating your mattress will help it last longer and also help you sleep better? If your mattress is single-sided, a simple 180-degree head-to-toe rotation will suffice. If it’s double-sided, you'll also need to flip it over when you rotate.

Declutter
The change of seasons is a good time to declutter and get rid of things we no longer need. Not only will it help your apartment feel fresh and clean, but it’s also a simple trick to make it feel more spacious.

Go through your closets, your cabinets, your drawers (you can even go room by room if it feels more manageable) and organize things into one of the following categories:

• Keep: Put away where it belongs.
• Toss: Throw it away.
• Donate / Giveaway: Put in a box to donate or give it away.
• Store: Package the item for storage.

Unsure about something? That’s okay. Put it aside to go through later. Just make sure it doesn’t end up in a never-ending limbo pile. Be ruthless. Be honest. Be joyful. Make Marie Kondo proud!

And a word from us at the KG Group Community Maintenance Team

You won’t be the only one cleaning up this Spring. Rest assured that our team is always working to keep every KG community running smoothly and efficiently. Our ongoing Community Maintenance program is constantly taking care of things behind the scenes across all our rental properties.
Here’s a few to look out for:

• In-suite fan coil inspection and filter changes
• Power washing of underground parking garages
• Regular Fire Drills
• Seasonal cleaning and changing of floor mats in all common areas

In addition, all of our communities are covered by our 24-hour Maintenance Response Guarantee. Peace of mind means knowing that if you have a problem, we’re there to help.

If you’ve ever flipped through a décor magazine and fallen in love with a rich aubergine bedroom, a living room in a deep bluey-grey, or a warm terra cotta entry hall, you’re not alone. Neutrals like taupe, white, and beige may have ruled the world of interior design for the last decade or two (and will never go out of style), but it seems that these days, colour is having a moment. And right now, we're swooning over Pantone's 2024 Colour of the Year: Peach Fuzz.

Subtle yet elegant, fresh yet timeless, confident yet relaxed, Peach Fuzz's true strength lies in its versatility. This delicate shade pairs seamlessly with a range of hues, from white, ivory, cream, beige, taupe, and soft shades of grey, to bolder colours like vibrant oranges and blues. Whether used as an accent, or the main act, this soft, warm hue is the perfect way to refresh your apartment. Here are four easy (and budget-friendly) ways to bring the year’s hottest colour into your home. And (bonus!) they’re all small changes that will have a big impact, making them perfect for rentals.

Start Small

Does the thought of colour bring on a cold sweat? Embark on your journey into the world of Peach Fuzz by starting small with some fresh flowers. A bouquet of blush-coloured blooms not only adds a touch of nature to your space, but also introduces the orange-pink shade in a way that’s easy, natural, and completely commitment-free. Tulips, roses, ranunculus – create a beautiful mix, totally tailored to you. 

Add an Accent

If you’re ready for something a little more permanent, but you’re still feeling commitment-shy, dip your toes into the pigment pool with some peachy keen, interchangeable décor items. Think vases, frames, pillows, throws, curtains, or a statement rug. Experimenting with these pieces will let you add a touch of this warm and welcoming shade to your rental, without committing to a major change, keeping your space flexible and full of personality.

Think Bigger

Ready to make a bolder statement? Invest in a larger piece of furniture like an armchair, a side table, or even a sofa in this pretty pastel tone. It might sound counterintuitive, but peach can actually act as a neutral, elevating your apartment and lending an element of warmth and sophistication, without overdosing on colour. Plus, with options at every price point, this is a way to play with the trend without breaking the bank.

Go All Out

For those feeling extra adventurous, consider adding a large piece of art in a bold peach tint, or, even better, turn an entire wall of your apartment into artwork with removable wallpaper – it’s quicker and simpler to install than traditional wallpaper, and comes coated with an adhesive backing, so it can be stuck onto the wall and then peeled off like it was never there. Perfect for rental life.

Peach Fuzz is the perfect hue to enrich our mind, body, and soul, and remind us that warmer days are just around the corner. It effortlessly navigates between the feminine and masculine, bringing confidence and relaxed charm to any space. Give it a try, and see how this velvety hue can awaken a sense of nurturing and belonging, creating a comforting sense of home in your condo rental.

Also, you can look for more information at the blogs:

5 Interior Design Trends That Will Define 2024

Decoring interior with peach colour. All the potencial of Panetone colour 2024

Searching for your ideal luxury apartment in Toronto can be a journey filled with challenges. At KG Group, we understand the difficulties that prospective tenants often encounter during this process. Our goal is to make the leasing process a stress-free and efficient experience, so you feel confident in your decision for your future home. We believe in transparency, proactive communication, and answering your questions to eliminate any confusion. In a few quick and easy steps, you can secure your new apartment and not waste time trying to coordinate schedules, extensive paperwork, or waiting for a reply. Read on to learn how KG Group solves many issues for renters in Toronto. 

Also, you can look for more information at the blogs: 

Find Your Ideal Toronto Apartment: Luxury Amenities by KG Group 

Renting a Condominium vs. Renting an Apartment in Toronto: Understanding the Differences 

1. Difficult Application Process: Many rental applications require a lot of paperwork and documentation, which can be time-consuming and frustrating for applicants. 

At KG Group, we understand that the application process for renting an apartment can often feel overwhelming due to the extensive paperwork and documentation required. Our goal is to alleviate the difficulty of rental applications by streamlining the process. When applying for an apartment with us, you can submit your application and required documents electronically. This convenient option minimizes the paperwork burden, making it quick and easy to apply. 

2. Lack of Transparency: Some listings may not provide accurate or comprehensive information about the property, leaving potential renters uncertain about what to expect. 

KG Group shines as a solution to the lack of transparency often encountered in rental listings. Understanding the uncertainty caused by incomplete or inaccurate information, we prioritize clarity and precision in our property listings. Our comprehensive listings provide you with detailed insights into each property's features, amenities, and surrounding neighbourhood, ensuring that you have a complete understanding of what to expect. At KG Group, transparency is paramount, and we empower you to make informed decisions with confidence as you embark on your apartment search. 

3. Limited Communication: Prospective tenants may struggle to receive timely and clear communication from the property regarding inquiries, viewings, and application updates. 

KG Group is here to resolve the challenge of limited communication faced by prospective tenants. Recognizing the frustration caused by delayed or unclear responses, we prioritize effective and transparent communication at every step of the rental journey. Our dedicated leasing team ensures that your inquiries receive prompt attention, with a 24-hour response guarantee. We aim to provide clear and comprehensive information about property details, viewing availability, and application updates. With a commitment to responsiveness, we bridge the communication gap, ensuring that you are well-informed and empowered throughout the process. At KG Group, we make communication a cornerstone of our service, ensuring that your customer service experience exceeds your expectations. 

4. Tour Scheduling Challenges: Coordinating property viewings with the leasing office's availability can be difficult, especially for those with busy schedules or if you live out of town. 

KG Group offers ideal solutions to the challenges of coordinating property viewings amidst busy schedules. Recognizing the time constraints that prospective tenants often face, we offer flexible and convenient viewing options. Our advanced scheduling system allows you to book property tours online at your convenience, accommodating your schedule seamlessly. Leveraging advanced virtual tour technology, we offer immersive remote viewing experiences that bridge the distance gap. Our virtual tours provide a detailed exploration of our properties, allowing you to virtually walk through and experience each space as if you were there in person. You can choose from an in-person tour, a private virtual tour, a guided Facetime tour, a video tour, or more. Whether you are out of town or juggling work commitments, KG Group ensures that touring your potential new home is effortless, providing a viewing experience tailored to your needs. With us, you can explore properties with ease, experiencing a level of convenience that sets us apart. 

5. Lengthy Approval Process: Waiting for approval or denial after submitting a rental application can be anxiety-inducing and lead to uncertainty about future housing arrangements. 

KG Group works hard to alleviate the stress of a lengthy approval process, recognizing the importance of a swift and transparent experience for prospective tenants. We prioritize efficient application processing, ensuring that you receive timely updates on your application status. As soon as you submit your rental application, we are committed to having a response in 24 to 48 hours. Our dedication to clear communication and streamlined procedures means that you are not left in limbo, we keep in touch with you all the way through the process, helping to reduce anxiety and uncertainty. With KG Group, you can expect a proactive and responsive approach that respects your time and provides clarity, making your transition to your new home as smooth as possible. 

6. Inconvenient Lease Signing: Trying to coordinate schedules for lease signing appointments and finalize the lease signing in person. 

KG Group is committed to making the entire leasing process as smooth and convenient as possible. We understand the challenges of busy schedules and renters moving from out of town. By prioritizing convenience, you have many flexible options to choose from. Our online lease signing process allows you to review and sign your lease agreement remotely, eliminating the need for in-person appointments that may be difficult to coordinate. You can even pay your rental deposit online too! This innovative approach ensures that the leasing process moves forward smoothly, accommodating you and reducing any potential delays. With KG Group, you can experience a hassle-free lease signing experience that respects your time and simplifies the final steps to securing your new apartment. 

7. Complexity and confusion of lease terminology: Renters may encounter difficulties in understanding the legal language and clauses within the lease agreement. Lack of clarity can cause uncertainty and hinder the signing process. 

Many lease agreements are long and filled with detailed, legal clauses. We value the importance of a clear understanding for our renters. The KG Group leasing team provides dedicated support to answer any questions, guiding you through the terms, rights, and responsibilities. We take the time to explain any of the lease clauses or terminology to you. Whether you want to sign your lease in-person or online, with our convenient online appointment booking and our KG Group resident portal, the choice is up to you! We want you to feel assured when signing your lease agreement, knowing that every detail is clear to you. Our commitment to clarity enhances your leasing experience and empowers you to make informed decisions with confidence. 

Searching for the perfect apartment can be an exciting but challenging endeavor, especially when it comes to finding one with the desired amenities. We understand the frustration of residents who long for certain features and facilities in their new home. In this blog post, we will help you discover apartment gems that strike the right balance of amenities. Get ready to find your dream rental that fulfills your lifestyle needs! 

Prioritize Your Must-Have Amenities:  

Start by identifying the amenities that are non-negotiable for you. Make a list of must-have features such as a fitness center, swimming pool, laundry facilities, parking, or pet-friendly spaces. Knowing your priorities will help you narrow down your search and focus on apartments that meet your essential needs. 

Research Apartment Communities:  

Take the time to research apartment communities that align with your amenity preferences. Visit their websites, look at social media platforms, browse through photos and descriptions, and explore their amenity offerings. Look for apartment communities that provide a wide range of amenities that cater to your lifestyle, such as shared spaces, outdoor areas, recreational facilities, or business centers. Go to the KG Group website to take a virtual tour of numerous amenities such as the Co-Work Studio, indoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, Pet Spaw, lounges and so much more.

Explore Alternative Options:  

If you come across an apartment that lacks certain amenities but still meets most of your criteria, don't dismiss it right away. Consider alternative options to compensate for the missing features. For example, if there is no on-site fitness center, look for nearby gyms or parks where you can maintain your exercise routine. At KG Group, we believe strongly in the health and wellness of our residents and staff, so all our communities have on-site fitness centers, and some even offer FREE in-person fitness classes. If there is no dedicated pet area, find out if the apartment is close to pet-friendly parks or walking trails.  We love our fur-babies at KG Group, and we welcome our four-legged friends.

Connect with Current Residents:  

To gain firsthand insights into the amenities in an apartment community and overall living experience, reach out to current residents. Use online forums, social media groups, or even community events to connect with people who live in the apartment that you are interested in. Feel free to ask current residents about the amenities, their satisfaction level, and any tips or recommendations they may have. You can always join in on one of our many resident events with KG Group such as our amazing summer BBQ’s or FREE weekly Zumba class.

Visit the Apartment in Person:  

Before making a decision, schedule a visit to the apartment in person. This will allow you to see the amenities yourself, assess their quality, and get a feel for the overall atmosphere of the community. By seeing the property with your own eyes, you can look closely at the condition of the amenities and the level of maintenance. KG Group has a 24-Hour maintenance response guarantee. That means if you submit a maintenance request then it will be repaired within one day. When you are at any of our KG Group communities, you will likely see our on-site cleaning teams or maintenance staff working diligently to not only meet our resident’s satisfaction but exceeding all expectations.

Community Engagement and Social Opportunities:  

Community amenities foster opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. Shared spaces like we have in our KG Group communities such as party rooms, co-work spaces, rooftop terraces, and lounges and even on-site fitness centers encourage residents to connect, meet new people, build friendships, expand your social network, and feel more connected to your neighbours. These amenities can be particularly beneficial if you are new to an area or seeking a more sociable living environment.

The journey of discovering your ideal apartment extends far beyond amenities alone. It revolves around fulfilling your unique lifestyle needs and fostering a vibrant sense of community. By prioritizing your must-have features, conducting thorough research, exploring alternative options, connecting with current residents, visiting the apartment in person, and embracing the social opportunities available, you open the door to an enriching and fulfilling living experience. Come take a look at one of our KG Group communities where we are reinventing rental living!