Nestled in the heart of the Niagara region, Thorold is a thriving community where small-town charm meets modern conveniences. Known for its rich history and scenic canal-side views, Thorold offers a welcoming environment for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Its proximity to iconic destinations like Niagara Falls, the Niagara Escarpment, and renowned wineries gives residents easy access to nature and cultural experiences. As the city grows, it retains its close-knit community feel, with new businesses and developments enhancing its appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy picturesque trails and parks, while the evolving downtown offers local shops and dining, making Thorold an affordable gem for those seeking both tranquility and urban amenities.

In the heart of the Niagara region is the charming city of Thorold — a community rich in history and brimming with culture and activity. Offering unmatched accessibility, Thorold has evolved into an ideal home for growing families and individuals in pursuit of a life of simplicity and comfort. The serene neighbourhoods, adorned with tree-lined streets and charming parks, create an inviting backdrop for a life well-lived. Here, the pace of life slows, allowing for genuine connections to flourish and for life’s best moments to unfold.

Empire’s Belfountain model at Calderwood in Thorold is the modern farmhouse you’ve been dreaming of. Taking inspiration from where this special community resides, Helena Da Costa of interior design firm Twelveo5 created a look that zeros in on comfort — a place that makes you feel at home from the minute you walk through its front doors.

So, how did Helena achieve this modern farmhouse look? Using warm brown finishes from Empire’s Design Center, she took this new-build home and gave it a sense of warmth and coziness right from the start of her design process. Bold black accents were implemented afterwards through furnishings, artwork and accessories to add contrast against the home’s warm tones. Read on to learn how warm wood textures, brown leathers, black metals and crisp white paint all work together to create this modern farmhouse design.

The Kitchen

When designing, Helena’s goal was to ensure that the aesthetic was consistent so the entire home felt like one cohesive space. To achieve that, she incorporated the same tones throughout all areas of the home, opting for warm woods in the kitchen, and darker hardware, countertops, and appliances. Two pendant lights are suspended from the ceiling, featuring a mix of wood and metal, with a square-tile backsplash adding subtle texture and dimension. 

Just off the kitchen, a wall-mounted desk and craft space makes use of a smaller space where traditional furniture might not fit. The result? A more organized and efficient area for kids’ creative endeavours, whether it be painting, drawing, or playing games.

The Dining Area

Designed for the modern entertainer, the dining room provides ample space for gathering and hosting dinners. Banquette seating complements the room’s black dining table, maximizing space and function. “Adding built-in bench seating along the exterior wall frees up floor space,” says Da Costa. “This creates a more spacious feel in the room which allows you to accommodate more guests than with traditional dining chairs.” Neutral woven chairs and patterned pillows add texture to the space, while a grey runner and candlesticks are incorporated for visual interest.

The Living Room

The living room’s fireplace is the focal point of the room and is a great addition to this open floor plan. Providing an immediate sense of warmth, it anchors the space and creates a natural gathering area for residents. A black feature wall adds interest to an otherwise neutral room, while an L-shaped leather couch adds another element of warmth and comfort. Sheer white curtains allow an abundance of light into the room, with pot lights and a standing lamp illuminating the space in the evening.

The Primary Bedroom

A true retreat, the primary bedroom provides a comfortable and relaxing space to unwind. Featuring soft curtains, plush bedding and soothing colours, this room exudes a feeling of calm. A patterned rug grounds the space, bringing together the room’s dark and light hues. The room’s rustic light fixtures and furniture pieces complement each other well.

The Secondary Bedroom

Designed with kids in mind, the Belfountain’s secondary bedroom is both playful and functional. Elements like patterned wallpaper, textured artwork and patterned rugs were incorporated into the space, while leaving ample room for kids to grow into. Storage solutions like shelving and baskets help keep the space clutter-free, housing items like books, toys, and other belongings.

Interested in exploring some of the other homes Helena has designed? Check out this modern chic home at Calderwood in Thorold or this timeless contemporary suite at Empire Maven in Toronto. Ready to begin your new home journey? Explore our new homes for sale in Southwestern Ontario.

As trends come and go, timeless interior design styles always prevail. With this in mind, designer Helena Da Costa selected finishes, furniture and features in our Dryden model home from different eras to create a classic and timeless space. “The home was designed to exude an upscale feel, with timeless furniture pieces reflective of classic interiors,” says Da Costa. “Clean lines and soft furnishings yield a comfortable atmosphere while still feeling polished and intentional.” With the help of Helena, we’ve put together a guide to help you replicate these classic interiors. Take inspiration from our Dryden model home at Calderwood to curate the home of your dreams with a look that’ll stand the test of time.

Create the ultimate work-from-home office with a few elevated pieces including a modern light fixture, a minimalist desk and plenty of storage to stay organized. Cozy up the space with a simple neutral rug and a few pieces of art that complement the accent wall to tie the whole room together.

A lot of hard work happens in the kitchen — but that doesn’t mean style has to be compromised for functionality. Quartz countertops and white cabinetry give the space a fresh and clean look, complemented by stainless-steel appliances and neutral accents. All-white elements keep the space bright, airy, and open.

The living room is where conversations take place, right beside the home’s fireplace. Helena used a grey sofa facing two white-wingback chairs to keep the space comfortable yet stylish. A dark coffee table provides contrast, while patterned and textured pillows add depth and flare.

The use of simple, clean lines is one of the hallmarks of a timeless home. Use a dark-coloured dining table and neutral chairs to maintain balance in the space, and a patterned rug and geometric chandelier to keep the room vibrant and cohesive.

A coveted primary retreat is a welcoming reprieve with a luxe upholstered bed and lounge chair. ​​Rest peacefully during the night and awake in the morning with ease through the use of blue and grey hues, and nature-inspired artwork on the walls to reinforce relaxation and serenity.

This loft is a great multi-purpose area for kids to do their homework, play or sit at the window bench and read. Custom cabinetry is perfect for storing toys and keeping the space neat and tidy. Use a bean bag chair to add an element of fun and a patterned circular rug to ground the room.

Want to learn more about the Dryden model home and similar floor plans at Calderwood in Thorold? Contact our New Home Specialist via email at homehunt@empirecommunities.com or phone to book an appointment.

Feeling inspired? Explore our blog, and learn how to style your fireplace like a designer or how to incorporate timeless contemporary style into your home.

Images courtesy of: Wayfair (Trule Standard Outdoor Friendly Bean Bag Chair, Terrence Bar Stool, Jace Arm Chair, Ragnhild Single Dome Pendant, Kaylie Round Metal Wall Mirror, Cale Solid Sofa Table, Fitz Machine Woven Rug, Veronica Solid Wood Dining Table, Sanath Glass Frame End Table, Upholstered Bed, Upholstered Chaise Lounge, Sidney Handmade Performance Rug, Vezina Kids Activity Table and Chair Set, Marionville Handwoven Rattan Magazine File, Foldable Storage Cardboard Bin, Minimalist Small Artificial Orchid In White Ceramic Pot, Dominic Machine Woven Rug, Wood Picture Frame, Fisk Outdoor Rectangular Pillow Cover & Insert, Gaige Machine Woven Beige Rug, Eisenman Rectangular Striped Cotton Table Runner, Acuna Glass Table Lamp, Niki Rectangular Velvet Pillow Cover & Insert, Reale Wood Bench, 3 Piece Square Floating Shelf); Structube (Sergio Desk, Spence Office Chair, Hurdsfield Machine Woven Rug, Polo Tufted Armchair, Adella End Table); All Modern (Asana Dimmable LED Pendant); Spoonflower (Chevron Blush Navy Wallpaper, Retro Ribbon Teal Blush Mustard White Fabric); Renwil (Yanno Wall Art); IKEA (Finnala Sofa); Urban Barn (Montana Dining Chair); Crate and Barrel (Keane Espresso Wood Charging Nightstand).

Canada Day is around the corner and it’s time to start thinking about how and where you’re going to celebrate. If you have yet to make any plans and are interested in knowing what’s taking place in town, check out these 4 events across Southwestern Ontario that are sponsored by Empire. From delicious food stands to live performances and large firework shows, these fun-filled events have it all.

Date: Friday, July 1, 2022

Time: 12:00pm – 10:00pm

Location: Lions Park Steve Brown Sports Complex

If you live in Brantford or the surrounding neighbourhood, join your fellow neighbours for a Canada Day celebration at Lions Park Steve Brown Sports Complex. Explore the offerings of local vendors at their marketplace and fill up on tasty foods as you enjoy the performances of singers, dancers and other entertainers. For all our wrestling fans, there’s competitions for you to watch and a full firework display to close out the day’s festivities at 10 o’clock. 

Date: Friday, July 1, 2022

Time: 10:30am – Dusk

Location: Caledonia Fairgrounds

Shopping, food, inflatable rides, and a full-on parade —  what more could you ask for on Canada Day? Shop for unique pieces and gifts, and devour all your favourite festival foods at the Caledonia Fairgrounds. Marvel at vehicles dating back to the 50’s and 60’s at the car show, watch some of Canada’s best variety acts, and then get ready for a firework show of a lifetime. For those who live at Empire Avalon, the event is just a short drive away.

Date: Friday, July 1, 2022

Time: 4:30pm – 10:00pm 

Location: Battle of Beaverdams Park

Featuring live bands, food trucks, entertainment and more, Thorold’s Canada Day celebrations won’t disappoint. Round up the whole family for an afternoon magic show and live performances. There’s face painting, inflatable slides and balloon animals for kids too. Satisfy all your late-night cravings at the event’s beer tents, food trucks and popcorn stands, and take in the sights of their firework show. For those who live at Empire Calderwood and Empire Legacy, this year’s Canada Day festivities have never been closer.

Date: Friday, July 1, 2022

Time: 8:40am (5K Race) | 9:00am (1K Race)

Location: Simcoe Park

Looking to take your fitness game to the next level this Canada Day? Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) is hosting a 5K race that you can participate in virtually or in-person. Interested in bringing your kids along with you? They have a 1K race for them to participate in too. Whether you need some fuel for your run or you’ve worked up an appetite once it’s concluded, head over to the park for a pancake breakfast hosted by the NOTL Rotary Club. Then, head over to Niagara Falls where our Empire residents live for a firework show over the Falls.

Share your Canada Day photos with us on social by tagging @empire_living on Instagram or @EmpireCommunities on Facebook. From our family to yours, we wish you a happy Canada Day.

Images courtesy of: CTV News (Brantford); Hamilton Spectator (Caledonia); Thorold News (Thorold); Race Roster (Niagara-on-the-Lake).

Empire Calderwood in Thorold is one of our most asked about communities in the Niagara region, and it isn’t hard to see why. Ideal for families looking to plant their roots, Calderwood is an intimate, tight-knit community that’s just minutes from some of the region’s best schools, urban attractions, wineries and provincial parks. With so much interest in the community and the neighbourhood, we thought we’d share an exciting first look into the new home designs coming soon to Calderwood.

Empire is proud to offer a collection of modern 3- and 4-bedroom home designs in Calderwood that will fit the lifestyle of your unique family. With a mix of towns and detached homes ranging from 1,300 to 2,800 sq.ft., Calderwood can accommodate whichever stage of life you find yourself in.

Our 27′ product line includes the Sunridge, Palmerston, Clinton, Belwood and Belfountain floor plans, which range from 1,457 to 1,863 sq.ft. and feature 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.

Our 34′ product line includes the Camden, Sauble, Markdale, Rocklyn and Dryden floor plans, which range from 1,854 to 2,394 sq.ft. and feature 3- and 4-bedroom and 2.5- to 3.5-bathroom designs.

Our townhome product line includes the Spruce and Wallflower floor plans, which range from 1,446 to 1,658 sq.ft. and feature 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathroom designs.

See what’s close to the community and learn more about what schools Calderwood students will attend.

Explore our community guide to learn more about Calderwood and Thorold, and be sure to join our interest list so that you don’t miss our latest release of homes.

How designer Dominic de Freitas drew inspiration from Thorold’s rural roots to create a cozy, family-focused home.

In a world enamoured with light and bright spaces, embracing a moodier colour palette for our homes almost feels like a design faux-pas. Almost.

Widely shied away from because of the belief that they make spaces feel smaller and gloomier, the darker end of the colour spectrum is often reserved for rooms we spend less time in, like a bathroom or the laundry room. And while inkier hues do suit these spaces, their effect is as equally impressive when welcomed into busier areas of the home. Dark paint tones can enhance architectural features, create a cocooning atmosphere and add drama and movement. “Neutral colours in a darker hue can make a space feel larger,” says designer Dominic De Freitas. This is because they obscure the edges of where the wall starts and stops.

Dominic’s unabashed embrace of dusky hues is what makes the Industrial Ranch model home so captivating. A palette rooted in earth tones — a mix of muted greys, neutrals and rustic colours — gives the home a rich envelope and sets the stage for a blend of industrial and farmhouse furnishings in deep neutral shades. “Authenticity is key,” says the designer, who drew inspiration for the palette from the rural locale where Empire’s Legacy community is based.

And the home’s authentic appeal is undeniable. In the kitchen, a farmhouse-style trestle table and industrial metal chairs encourage laid-back family meals, while pots and pans kept on display communicate a love for cooking and are easy to grab when needed. “The best accents are the ones that also play a functional role,” says Dominic of the freestanding baker’s rack. “Look for pieces that serve a dual purpose.” The raised family room strikes a similar homey note, with natural accent pieces and a mix of leather and wooden furniture carving out a comfortable space that’s perfect for family downtime. “Don’t over stage your home,” Dominic advises. “Keep it casual; think about how you truly live.” To add warmth to the large open space and establish a natural focal point, Dominic opted for an expansive brick feature wall — a staple of industrial design.

Taking in the mix of raw materials, weathered woods and earthy palette, it’s impossible not to feel right at home in the Industrial Ranch model. And for families looking to plant their own roots, it seems only fitting that the inspiration for the home comes from the ground up.

Want more decor inspiration? Check out our Industrial Ranch Style Guide, with exclusive tips from designer Dominique De Freitas and subscribe to receive three more style guides directly to your inbox along with exclusive bonus content and expert tips and inspiration.

When it comes to putting a personal stamp on our homes, you can’t go wrong by adding artwork. Art helps define the personality of a space, and it can dramatically improve the look of any room. And while most of us do have art woven throughout our homes, it’s often limited to a painting or a picture in a frame. If you’re looking to shake up the art in your home, here are some simple ways to do so.

Want more decor inspiration and advice for your next decor project? Check out our 4-part Love Design, Live Empire video series with designer Dominique De Freitas and subscribe to receive the episodes directly to your inbox along with exclusive bonus content including our curated style guides and expert tips and inspiration.

In episode one of our four-part video series, we go behind the scenes with Dominic De Freitas and the figure3 team as they conceptualize four unique model home styles in Thorold – Shabby Chic, Modern Scandi, Industrial Ranch and Manor Estate.

Schools play a major role in the growth of your family, and are often one of the most important considerations when buying a new home. To help Legacy homeowners in the Niagara area navigate their way through their new school options, we’ve put together this guide on all things education.

In our experience, nothing compares to an actual visit. Sometimes reports and stats don’t take into account the amazing teachers and staff or overall atmosphere of a school. At the end of the day, different kids connect with different environments and what works for one family might be different for the next. We highly recommend visiting each school to determine what’s best for your kids.

School District

Our Legacy community in Thorold falls under the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN). Here’s everything you need to know about the school options located inside Legacy’s School Boundary. Please note Principals may change mid-year. Download a copy of DSBN’s Legacy School Boundary information sheet here.

Elementary Schools

Quaker Road Public School (Website)

• Address: 333 Quaker Rd, Welland, L3C 3G7
• Phone: 905-732-5412
• Grade Range: JK – Grade 8
• Size: 290
• Distance from Legacy: 5-minute drive
• Extra Curriculars: Robotics, Glee Club, Writing Club, Silver Birch and Read Maple reading clubs
• Sports: Badminton, Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Three Pitch, Track and Field, Volleyball

Secondary Schools

E.L. Crossley Secondary School (Website)

• Address: 350 Hwy 20, Fonthill, L0S 1E0
• Phone: 905-892-2635
• Grade Range: Grade 9 – 12
• Distance form Legacy: 6-minute drive
• Size: 900
• Extra Curriculars: Chess Team, DECA, EARTH, Interact, ISCF, Model Builders, Ski Club, Student Council
• Sports: Cross Country, Hockey, Volleyball, Basketball, Golf, Tennis, Swimming, Badminton, Curling, Wrestling, Lacrosse, Rowing, Baseball/Softball, Soccer, Track and Field

Out of Boundary Education

There are also several school options outside of Legacy’s School Boundary. In order to enroll students in a school outside of your boundary you must seek Alternate Attendance and gain approval by the Principal. Please note that if students are approved for attendance, there is no transportation provided.

Gordon Public School (Website)

• Address: 468 Thorold Rd W, Welland, L3C 3W6
• Phone: 905-734-3730
• Grade Range: Grade 1 – 8
• Distance from Legacy: 10-minute drive
• Size: 510
• Extra Curriculars: Chess Club, Guitar Club, Skip Team, Silver Birch Reading Club, Guitar Club
• Sports: Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Cross Country, Track and Field, Gymnastics, Dance, Three-Pitch
• French Immersion: Primary, Junior, and Intermediate

Fitch Street Public School (Website)

• Address: 164 Fitch St, Welland, L3C 4V5
• Phone: 905-732-3683
• Grade Range: Grade 1 – 8
• Distance from Legacy: 10-minute drive
• Size: 300
• Extra Curriculars: Mad Science, Choir, Red Maple and Silver Birch Reading Club
• Sports: Track and Field, Badminton, Basketball

Glynn A Green Public School (Website)

• Address: 1353 Pelham St. Fonthill, ON L0S1E0
• Phone: 905-892-3821
• Grade Range: JK – 8
• Distance from Legacy: 7-minute drive
• Size: N/A
• Extra Curriculars: Book Fair, Yearend trips, Art Attack, Robot Rumble, Choir, Family Reading Programme, Guitar Club, Chess, Library Club, Caribou Math, Coding Club, Lego Robotic Club, Science Fair, Library Helpers, Math Olympics, Me to We, Public Speaking, Student Parliament, Tech Challenge, Yoga Club
• Sports: Track and Field finals, Golf, Bike Rodeo, Badminton, Basketball, Volleyball, Three Pitch, Soccer, Volleyball
• French Immersion: N/A

A.K. Wigg Public School (Website)

• Address: 1337 Haist Street, Fonthill, L0S 1E0
• Phone: (905) 892-2605
• Grade Range: JK – 8
• Distance from Legacy: 10-minute drive
• Size: N/A
• Extra Curriculars: Book fairs, Dance Club, Choirs, Early Act Club, Educational Field trips, Talent/Variety Show, Techno challenge, Chess tournaments and clubs, Outdoor Education, Go Girls, Eco Club
• Sports: Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Badminton, Cross country, Track and field, Three pitch baseball, Jump Rope for Heart, Golfing
• French Immersion: N/A
• Additional Information: K. Wigg school has access to the Pelham Library, the Pelham Arena and Community Centre as well as the “Way To Grow” Day Care Centre located at A. K. Wigg School.

Welland Centennial Secondary School (Website)

• Address: 240 Thorold Rd W, Welland, L3C 3W2
• Phone: 905-735-0700
• Grade Range: Grade 9 – 12
• Distance from Legacy: 9-minute drive
• Extra Curriculars: Chess Club, Centennial For Christ, Dance Team, Environmental Club, Media Arts Club, Musical Groups, OSAID, Schoolreach, Safe School Team, Ski and Snowboard Club, Student Council, Theatre Tech Club, Vocal Groups, Weight Room
• Sports: Badminton, Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Curling, Football, Golf, Hockey, Rowing, Rugby, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball
• Extended French Program: Grade 9 – 12

Eastdale Secondary School (Specialized School-to-Work Program) Website

• Address: 170 Wellington St, Welland, L3B 1B3
• Phone: 905-734-7458
• Grade Range: Grade 9 – 12
• Distance from Legacy: 5-minute drive
• Size: 490
• Extra Curriculars: Anime Club, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Chess Club, Drama Club, Environment/Recycling Club, Technical Club, Yearbook
• Sports: Badminton, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Slo-Pitch, Soccer, Track and Field, Volleyball, Special Olympics

As one of Empire’s newest communities, we are working with the School Board to establish a smooth and transparent enrollment process for our homeowners and their families. If you have any questions about the schools listed above, we recommend contacting DSBN’s Education Centre at 905-641-1550. For transportation information, please contact Niagara Student Transportation Services at 905-346-0290.

Catholic Schools

The Catholic school system is also an option. Please note that the enrollment process and criteria may differ slightly from the Public School System. Please contact the Niagara Catholic District School Board for more information at (905) 735-0240.

St. Alexander Catholic Elementary School (Website)

• Address: 26 Highway #20 Fonthill, Ontario
• Phone: 905-892-3841
• Grade Range: ELKP – 8
• Distance from Legacy: 8-minute drive
• Size: 408
• Extra Curriculars: Camp Muskoka, Schools Mass/Prayer Service, French Play, Science Club,
• Sports: Track & Field
• French Immersion: N/A
• Child Care: Yes, from JK-Age 12

Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Elementary School, Formerly Monsignor Clancy Secondary School (Website)

• Address: 41 Collier Road S. Thorold, ON L2V 3S9
• Phone: 905-227-4910
• Grade Range: K – 8
• Distance from Legacy: 9-minute drive
• Size: 345
• Sports: Soccer, Track & Field