20-40 Oaklands Avenue & 315 Avenue Road

The Oaklands is one of those curious buildings that makes you pause every time you walk by — whether it’s your fifth or hundred-and-fifth time. Perhaps that’s because 40 Oaklands Avenue, while partially concealed by mature trees, is a modernist masterpiece.

In fact, architect Macy Dubois designed the condo, and his efforts were generously rewarded: Dubois received a Governor General’s Medal in Architecture for this residential edifice. For those interested in architectural history, Dubois also designed New College at the University of Toronto, Central Techincal School’s art centre, and the Ontario pavilion at Expo 67.

The 3-storey building at 40 Oaklands is divided into 65 townhouse units. While the square tile façade is a selling point for some prospective residents, others are drawn to the condo’s minimal yet important list of amenities: the building boasts a concierge and under underground parking with visitor spots.

Homes at 40 Oaklands range considerably in size, making these midtown Toronto condos appealing to all sorts of residents. The smallest suites are studios that span approximately 550 square feet, while those in need of as much space as possible can check out the three bedroom plus den units, some of which span 2,350 square feet.

As expected of a longstanding building like the Oaklands, some suites feature much more modern interiors than others; others are ready to be renovated by residents who prefer to wipe the slate clean and personalize every aspect of their homes. Prospective residents might also be pleased to find wood burning or gas fireplaces, depending on the unit, while some suites cover multiple floors.

All of the homes at 40 Oaklands are extremely bright thanks to the generous use of windows by Dubois. And those who prefer homes with that extend outside will be blown away by the penthouse units, which boast over 1,200 square feet of outdoor space.

There are plenty of good reasons to want to call 40 Oaklands home. Situated in the upscale residential neighbourhood of Summerhill, this condo is still within close reach of countless commercial offerings.

Just to the north is St. Clair Avenue West, where residents can find an LCBO and the Market by Longo’s on the ground floor of the Imperial Plaza. Another great option is the large Loblaws at the corner of Yonge and St. Clair, and those who want nothing but organic goods can head south on Avenue Road to the Whole Foods at Hazelton Lanes.

While the intersection of Avenue Road and Oaklands Avenue seems devoid of restaurants at first glance, that’s because one of the best special occasion spots in the city is cleverly tucked away. Scaramouche, which opened in 1980 and can consistently be found on the most important lists of top restaurants, is located 5 minutes away from 40 Oaklands by foot. More options, including upscale specialty food shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants, can also be found due east, on Yonge Street.

Residents living at 40 Oaklands Avenue can easily travel throughout the city, even without a car. The walk over to Summerhill Station on the Yonge subway line takes all of 8 minutes, while the 15-minute walk to Dupont Station on the University-Spadina line can be sped up by hopping on the Dupont bus.

Living beside Avenue Road is particularly useful for drivers, who can use this arterial street to reach the 401 to the north. Alternatively, south of College Avenue Road becomes University Avenue, a 6-lane street that carries cars right into downtown Toronto.