At Empire, we’re committed to creating communities with intentional spaces that empower our residents to thrive. Empire Phoenix, our condominium in South Etobicoke, is no exception. Located along Lake Ontario’s tranquil waters and backed onto Grand Avenue Park, Phoenix’s location was an intentional choice because of its uniqueness — a middle ground between the suburbs and downtown.

Prior to designing the building’s amenities, our team knew we needed to deliver spaces that would complement the area and residents’ routines. It’s not just about offering a pool, spa or workout room, it’s about crafting an environment where residents can connect, relax and live their best lives. What was the result? A whole new approach to condominium living. Let’s explore the building’s curated amenities, their captivating elements, and the innovative design solutions that set them apart.

1. Seamlessly Integrating Spaces For Dynamic Experiences

The amenities at Empire Phoenix were tailored to complement how residents live, and are versatile and adaptable in nature. Amenities merge with one another in an effortless manner, creating seamless transitions from room to room. Whether you’re hosting an intimate get-together, indulging in a tranquil self-care session, or breaking a sweat in the fitness area, the flow between spaces remains uninterrupted, catering to a spectrum of needs. From the residence’s relaxed lounge and interactive game room to its elegant private dining area and inviting rooftop terrace, Empire Phoenix’s amenities create an atmosphere full of comfort and connection.

2. Designing For Connection and Celebration

With larger living spaces and an appreciation for gathering in mind, Empire Phoenix’s amenities were designed for celebration and connection. Equipped with thoughtful additions like wine fridges, full-sized appliances, and adaptable seating, these spaces encourage residents to extend the feeling of home to loved ones, embrace the spirit of togetherness, share stories, and create lasting memories.

3. The Artistry of Elegance and Harmony

The aesthetics of Empire Phoenix’s amenities align with the residence’s overarching design ethos, resulting in spaces that resonate on both a visual and emotional level. Evoking warmth through wooden hues, industrial subtleties, and hand-selected accents, these elements harmonize into an enchanting composition.

Clever design additions, such as integrated booth arrangements and discreet pocket doors, facilitate seamless expansion of rooms to accommodate larger gatherings, all without the need for cumbersome rearrangements. Emerald green accents grace various spaces, binding together the amenities’ furnishings, artwork, and accessories.

4. Innovations and Thoughtful Solutions

The challenges of creating amenities that are both functional and aesthetic were met with thoughtful solutions. Canadian design team Figure3 designed each space to mirror the comforts of home while facilitating meaningful interactions. From a self-care oasis featuring a rain shower, relaxation zone with a fireplace, and sauna, to a well-equipped gym with a juice and snack bar for post-workout refreshments, the residence caters to all aspects of residents’ lives.

With a connection between the indoor lounge and the outdoor terrace, residents can shift between the indoors to spending moments al fresco with ease. Phoenix’s amenities are social spaces, but also serve as gateways to holistic living. Weaving together function and design, each space empowers residents to create connections, indulge in self-care, and embrace an active life.

Interested in some of our other high-rise developments in Ontario? Check out our exclusive penthouses at Empire Maverick in Toronto. Plus, hear what these friends had to say about co-buying a condo.

As Empire Quay House continues to take shape on Queens Quay East by Toronto’s eastern waterfront, our construction site became the perfect opportunity to inject a new burst of art and creativity for the neighbourhood to enjoy. To help us bring our hoarding to life, we teamed up with students from George Brown College’s design program.

The team of Christina Kim, Natalie Franke, and Kristie Jones were given creative freedom to use the condo project’s hoarding as an outlet for artistic expression. They landed on transformation as their design theme, inspired by scenic views of where the city and waterfront meet.

The unique design plays on the waterfront and waves, using them to transform from one activity to another. A streetcar that transforms into an outing at Sugar Beach, and a community basketball court that evolves into a scene of someone working in an office building are just a few of the concepts. The final result? A vibrant, eye-catching display that reflects the liveliness and energy of Toronto’s downtown core.

“Art and partnerships like these with Empire Quay House are just another opportunity to bring public art into Torontonians’ lives every day,” explains Franke. The power of art is limitless, stimulating learning and creativity in people of all ages. It prompts self-reflection and awareness, and develops a sense of community pride.

Despite art being integral to Toronto, there aren’t always opportunities for up-and-coming talent to showcase their work. “It brings a lot of joy and creativity to the city. While there is a lot of creativity that can be found in Toronto, it’s not always something that we always see directly on the street,” explains Jones. “Being able to bring that to people who are out and about, and show off what the city has to offer is always a wonderful opportunity.”

Located on Toronto’s eastern waterfront, Quay House’s hoarding is the perfect canvas for students to gain public exposure in the local art scene on a large scale, being located in a high-traffic area with Sugar Beach in walking distance. Students bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to the table, providing a special skill set and creative solutions that might not have been considered before. The benefits are twofold as these opportunities end up setting them up for future success in the industry.

“Empire’s collaboration with George Brown has been a wonderful opportunity for us to bring public art into the lives of Torontonians right on the street as we celebrate creativity and the vibrant culture of this Toronto waterfront community,” says Josie Arcella, Senior Marketing Director at Empire Communities. “We thank these talented students for letting us work hand in hand to bring this vision to life for Quay House.”

To find out more about Empire Quay House and our other communities in the GTA, click here.

Interested in learning more about some of the other talented designers we’ve teamed up with? Check out Sarah Neuburger’s work in Atlanta, Georgia and Samara Shuter’s thought-provoking artwork at Empire Maverick in Toronto.

When Samara Shuter was approached to design our hoarding at Empire Maverick — one of our newest condo developments in Toronto — she rose to the challenge and created a work of art. Vibrant, bold and sophisticated, her designs reflect the spirited nature of those who have and continue to call King Street home. Reflecting on the mural-making experience, Samara explains that she had never done a project like this before. “When I was approached by Empire, I didn’t really know what to think or how to approach the project as a whole,” says Samara. “They have been so incredible to work with and they’re so supportive of local artists in Toronto. I was just so glad that I was able to work with the company.”Alongside many other talented Toronto artists, Samara has and continues to shape our city, and brings communities closer together one artwork at a time.

The streets of Toronto simply wouldn’t be the same if public art didn’t exist. You wouldn’t be able to find inspiration at every corner, instagramable backdrops to enjoy or historical reminders of days gone by. If you wanted to appreciate any one of these moments, you’d have to travel to a museum or gallery where the experience just isn’t the same. The reality is that public art has a huge impact on our day-to-day lives. It’s what shapes our cities, makes them unique, and brings our buildings, plazas, playgrounds, subway stations, airports and landmarks to life.

Public art enriches the areas where people live, work and play. It creates environments that stimulate learning and creativity in people of all ages, prompts self-reflection and awareness and develops a sense of community pride. “I think public art brings a community together. When a private sector can come and bring a different flavour to the masses and sort of enliven the particular area, street or network, I think it’s a great mutual exchange where people can appreciate the dialogue they want to create from the project,” says Samara. 

But that’s not all — more than just invigorating our downtown core, public art helps to boost the economy as well. The general public is drawn to dynamic cultural scenes just as much as trendy restaurants and boutiques. When businesses are deciding whether or not to relocate to a new region, they look at the cultural attractions the area has to offer just as much as its infrastructure. Public art plays a huge role in establishing the culturally active places that society values so greatly. It breaks the trend of sameness and creates a strong community identity. “I hope when people are sort of circling around their community, that when they see the hoarding that we put up, they see themselves — it’s a bit of a reflection of their day-to-day and they relate to it directly and feel that they belong here as they do,” says Samara. “This is a part of who they are. It creates dialogue around the place that they chose to live.”

To learn more about Empire Maverick and the Crown Collection — a limited release of two-storey penthouses — click here. If you’re interested in discovering some of the other talented designers we’ve teamed up with, check out Sarah Neuburger’s work in Atlanta, Georgia.

An open-concept floor plan with an abundance of natural light, the Orchard model suite imparts a sense of grandeur and fluidity from the moment you walk in the door. Walnut hardwood flooring brings some warmth into the space, while a large ensuite with custom cabinetry and oversized porcelain tiles reflects a Maven’s discerning taste. The suite’s upgraded kitchen and bathroom vanities are designed with an attention to detail that the Maven resident deserves, while the dining area and living room give off a luxe feel.

Designer Helena Da Costa of Toronto design firm Twelveo5 brought the vision to life, taking inspiration from the luxurious finishes that Empire chose. “After seeing the warm walnut floors and the rich dark cabinets in the kitchen and main bathroom, I felt that a modern take on mid-century modern design would really complement the space,” she says. Discover more of Da Costa’s inspiration as you scroll through the suite at Empire Maven below.

Every inch of the Orchard model suite wows with exceptional design. The kitchen features cool and contrasting colours, while the lighting and chairs were specifically chosen for their warmer tones. An oversized kitchen island is the heart of this room, complementing the spaciousness of the rest of the suite. “The size of each room is quite generous,” says Da Costa. “It really stands out compared to most condos in the city.”

The Orchard’s dining room accommodates guests perfectly, whether you’re hosting a more intimate gathering or a larger celebration with family and friends. A partition wall divides the room, giving the space some extra privacy without closing it off from the rest of the suite. “Contrast really plays a role in the success of this home,” says Da Costa. “The black walls create drama and define each space within the suite. At the same time, they add to the sense of warmth that the wood tones generate.”

The living room gives off a sense of comfort right away — from the pattered pillows to the smooth rug and the various plants on display. “The design style of the suite can feel a bit heavy with all the wood tones, so I tried to balance that by adding in cream and light grey colour schemes in the upholstered pieces,” says Da Costa. “This makes the room feel airy and open, and the abundance of windows and natural light that pours into the suite adds to this feeling of space,” she says. If you’re looking to replicate this design, “furniture pieces like the sofa and tables should have simple clean lines and neutral tones so that accents like the showpiece artwork on the walls stand out.”

Abstract artwork, wood accents and a mix of metals are used in this totally unique owner’s retreat. Its private patio access, walk-in closet and ensuite with a double vanity make this room an enviable part of the home. White sheer drapes keep the space bright and airy from the morning through the afternoon, allowing its residents to start their day on the right foot.

Book an appointment to tour the Orchard model suite at Empire Maven in person. Looking for more design inspiration? Check out the design section of our blog, and get a designers take on warm, luxe neutrals.

Deciding on the right condo to buy isn’t easy when there are so many great options in Toronto. To help make your homebuying search a bit easier, we break down each of our Empire condo communities to give you an idea of what life is like in the neighbourhood, some features of the building and what type of resident would call it home. Read on to discover if Maverick, Maven, or Quay House most aligns with your lifestyle preferences and personality.

There’s a lot to love about our Quay House community, from the array of incredible amenities offered to the host of new and exciting attractions coming to the area in the near future. And those who’ve already invested in Quay House have uncovered another plus: the assortment of flexible floor plans to choose from.

But just as understanding a condo floor plan can be difficult, so too can be choosing the plan that’s best suited to your needs. To help make that process easier, we spoke to Sales Manager Danielle De Vaal for her insights on choosing the floor plan that’s best suited to you. Keep reading to discover what her recommendations are.

For the First-Time Investor: The Monte & Galleon Floor Plans

“For those looking to dive into the world of investment, a studio suite is often a great starting point, simply because of their less intimidating starting price,” says De Vaal. “Both the Galleon and the Monte floor plans are studio suites that maximize square footage and are flexible in nature — both kitchens can accomodate a portable island for extra storage and prep space, and the living areas can fit a sliding door installation for added privacy.”

For the Co-Buyers: The Gulf Floor Plan

Communal homeowners are becoming more common, as people are looking for new avenues to own or invest in today’s market. “Whether purchasing with friends, family or other investors, co-buying is a more economical way to become a homeowner,” says De Vaal. “The three-bedroom Gulf floor plan is great for those groups who want to move into their suite and have the benefit of each having their own bedroom for privacy. For those renting or investing, the Gulf is a viable option as it can accomodate groups of students or a small family.

For Parents & Students: The Rocky Floor Plan

“Parents wanting to help their children see opportunity in real estate,” says De Vaal. “With students coming into the area for school (George Brown’s Waterfront campus is a quick four minute walk from Quay House), the Rocky floor plan is a popular pick thanks to its dedicated study area. The Rocky checks all the boxes with its functional layout, spacious kitchen — which can also accommodate a standalone island — and small balcony.”

Visit our website to learn more about Quay House and explore more of our available floor plans. You can also contact our sales representatives at 647-372-0619 or at quayhouse@empirecommunities.com.

Investing in Toronto real estate can be a big decision — one that you need to be prepared for and give substantial thought to; however, have you ever wondered what you should actually consider? With the help of our sales representatives, Naveen Chopra and Adam Miao, we’re breaking down the most frequently asked questions and what to think about before you make your first, or next real estate investment.

For more information about Empire Quay House, contact our sales representatives at 647-372-0619 or at quayhouse@empirecommunities.com.

Moving into your first home is a big milestone and something nearly everyone dreams about, but making that big leap can be a little scary. It’s important to be aware of affordability and making the most out of your space. This is why condos have become a great choice for many first-time homeowners and first-time renters. Beyond finances, condo living has a lot of other advantages for social, active, young adults. Read on to find out some of the key reasons more and more people are choosing condos.

Without a doubt, moving into a new home is an exciting venture. If we’re fortunate, we spend our lives ‘moving up’ into better neighbourhoods and homes big enough to accommodate each child having their own bedroom, a large yard for the dog to run around in, and a kitchen grand enough to host large gatherings with our friends and family. As time passes, we grow accustomed to our particular way of living, so that when we reach the point in our lives when it’s time to consider downsizing, we’re often unsure of how to do so — or if we want to. Since our homes are a source of pride, it can be hard to recognize that we’ve outgrown the lives we set up for ourselves in our younger days, or that the space we raised our children in no longer works for us. If you’re finding that maintaining your home is becoming increasingly more time-consuming and expensive, or is no longer suited to changing physical needs, then downsizing to a condo could be the perfect solution.

Read on to discover five benefits of downsizing from a home to a condo like Empire Maven. 

You Can Continue Living in a Convenient & Desirable Location

Downsizing doesn’t have to mean compromising on the local conveniences that you’ve grown accustomed to in your neighbourhood — and in fact, one of the greatest advantages to living in a condo is that they offer the opportunity to live in the heart of your city or community without having to lose quick access to dining, entertainment, shopping and transport. Our Empire Maven condos are the perfect example: located in the prime Avenue and Lawerence area of Toronto, Maven is a great option for those who want a boutique residence that is well-suited to their lifestyle while still having access to a community rich in character and convenience.

Neighbours Are Also a Built-in Network of Friends

Compared to a low-rise neighbourhood, dwelling in a condo can help bring neighbours closer together and foster a stronger sense of community. Whether you get to know your fellow Mavens after passing them in the hall or while socializing in the residence’s communal amenity spaces, you’re sure to forge stronger bonds with those you share the building with. And with residents living closer together, it’s also easier to seek help in the event of an emergency.

They Give You an Opportunity to Declutter

Excess space in our homes are often used for storage, so when the time comes to downsize, we rediscover a lot of things we no longer use. Downsizing encourages us to consider what we truly want and need, as chances are not everything you currently own will be able to fit into your new home. Consider the scale of pieces you’re welcoming into your new space, as a space that functions better will make your life easier and facilitate greater interaction when loved ones come to visit.

Designed to enrich the lifestyles of the discerning Avenue Road resident, the Empire Maven name will signal an enviable choice and speak to the evolving definitions of luxury and the unique tastes of its clientele. Visit our website to learn more about Maven.

Moving in with your significant other is a big step in a relationship, so congratulations! Living with your loved one is such a rewarding experience, especially when made with a plan and input from both partners. From decorating your home the way you’ve always imagined to the not-so-glamorous responsibility of divvying up chores, there are several ways to make the transition to sharing a home as smooth as possible. Watch the video below to see what three real-life couples had to say about successful cohabitation, then read on for advice on how to set up your move for long-term success.

Move In For the Right Reasons

Ensure that you’re moving in with your partner for the right reasons. This shouldn’t be because your lease is up, or because homeownership is too expensive for you to afford on your own. While those reasons may be the catalyst for the decision, but have an open and honest discussion about what makes sense for your relationship. Some couples move in together quickly while others need more time; whatever your journey is, ensure that cohabitation is the best next step in your relationship and that you’re not rushing each other for financial or practical reasons.