In recent years, many Toronto condo developers have used the word “luxury” in their marketing campaigns. While the term grabs attention, it’s often misused, leaving buyers and investors disappointed when a project falls short of true luxury standards.
For buyers, especially those purchasing pre-construction, understanding what qualifies as a luxury condo is critical. Many buyers focus on price per square foot, which can lead to overlooking essential details that distinguish premium developments from truly luxurious ones. Think of it like comparing a basement rental to a private two-bedroom condo—price alone isn’t the full picture.
Categories of Toronto Condos
To simplify the landscape, I categorize Toronto condos into three tiers:
Luxury Condos - Premium quality features and finishes
Premium Condos- Great quality End-User buildings
Essential Condos- Investor buildings - more renters then end-users
Just like in the hotel industry, where true luxury hotels undergo rigorous evaluations and earn star ratings or recognition from organizations like The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), the same meticulous standards should apply to residential developments. While there’s no formal certification for luxury condos, there are clear criteria you can use to evaluate them.
In this article, we spotlight one of Toronto’s finest developments
It’s the perfect example to break down and bring this content to life.
One Delisle
One Delisle is one of Toronto most luxurious pre construction condo developments. One Delisle will reside at the intersection of Yonge and St. Clair, in Mid-Town Toronto.
Here are 8 categories that define a true luxury condo in Toronto:
1. The Team: Architects and Designers
A luxury condo is the product of a carefully curated team of renowned architects and designers. These firms often hold prestigious awards, and their projects are never cookie-cutter. Each development features unique floor plans, finishes, and design elements that set it apart, ensuring no two projects look or feel the same.
ONE DELISLE features a long list of recognized firms:
Developer Slate Asset Management
Architect Studio Gang
Architect of Record WZMH Architects
Heritage Architect ERA Architects
Interior Design Studio Gang
Features and Finishes Mason Studio
Landscape Architect Janet Rosenberg & Studio
Sustainability WSP
Structural Engineering Magnusson Klemencic Associates Stephenson Engineering
Façade Engineering BVDA
One of the most significant persons that was part of the ONE DELISLE project is Architect Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang.
Let me put Jeanne Gang into context for those who may not be familiar with her. If you’re already immersed in the world of design and architecture, you undoubtedly know her name. But for those who don’t, let me say it plainly: Jeanne Gang is one of the greatest architects of our time—and arguably, of all time.
To illustrate just how remarkable she is, let me share a personal anecdote. I often take my niece and nephew to the library, where I like to browse books that spark my curiosity (of course!). One day, I stumbled upon a children's book titled “100 Things to Know About Architecture” by Louise O'Brien and Leanne Daphne. The book covers everything from iconic buildings to architectural history and styles. It also includes a very short list of the world’s most influential architects—just five or six names. Among these giants, alongside Frank Gehry and Dame Zaha Hadid, was Jeanne Gang.
Think about the weight of that choice: out of countless architects who have shaped the world, the authors included Jeanne Gang in this exclusive group. This simple discovery floored me—not because I needed convincing of her greatness, but because it’s an acknowledgment that even children are now learning her name as part of architectural history. She’s already cemented her place as a legend.
So, what does that mean for One Delisle, a building designed by Jeanne Gang? It transforms it into more than just real estate. It becomes a collector’s item. Just as some buyers collect fine art, others collect fine architecture—and One Delisle is exactly that. It’s not just a development; it's an exclusive collection of Real Estate and it's here in Toronto!
2. Building Exterior
The exterior design of a luxury building is far more than a simple glass-and-concrete façade. It incorporates distinct architectural details, innovative materials, and features like setbacks for terraces, outdoor spaces, or purely aesthetic appeal. Luxury buildings often defy the standard boxy tower format, using geometric or timeless design influences to create a landmark residence with a signature look.
3. Interior Suite Floor Plans
Luxury condos prioritize variety and flexibility in floor plans. Unlike typical condos where floor plans repeat on every level, luxury developments offer multiple layouts for each suite type, such as one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or three-bedroom units. There may even be specialized collections like garden, terrace, or penthouse suites. Some developments allow buyers to combine units or make custom modifications for a truly personalized home.
4. Features and Finishes
Standard doesn’t exist in a luxury condo—what’s standard is already exceptional. Finishes include high-end materials like quartz, marble, granite, premium engineered flooring, and oversized porcelain tiles. Kitchens feature designer cabinetry, seamless backsplashes, waterfall counters, and name-brand appliances like Miele or Gaggenau. Buyers also get the opportunity to personalize their homes through exclusive upgrade packages.
This attention to detail ensures that every residence feels like a professionally designed home without the need for additional renovations.
FEATURE AND FINISHES: SKY COLLECTION AT ONE DELISLE
SUITE FEATURES
White smooth painted ceilings throughout
9' ceilings in principle areas, excluding required bulkheads and ceiling drops
Double glazed windows throughout
Sliding balcony and terrace doors, as per plan
Juliet balcony sliding doors, as per plan
Solid core suite entry door
Solid core suite interior doors
Hardware and fixture options correspond to design palettes
Glue-down engineered oak hardwood floors (plank or herringbone pattern)
Contemporary profiled painted baseboards and trim throughout
Walk-in closets, as per plan
Bedrooms and front hall closets include built-in millwork shelving
Washer and vented dryer, with porcelain or natural stone tile flooring throughout
Walk-in laundry rooms, as per plan
KITCHEN FEATURE AND FINISHES AT ONE DELISLE
KITCHEN
Custom, Studio Gang-designed kitchens, with lacquer finish and frosted glass uppers, or wood veneer finish with lacquer island, as per plan and per design palette
Pill-shaped Studio Gang-designed kitchen island, as per plan; dining extension or breakfast bar, as per plan
Soft-closing precision drawers and doors throughout
Contemporary built-in under-cabinet lighting
Natural stone kitchen countertop and backsplash
© Miele cooking appliances (induction cooktop, convection oven) built-in microwave or speed oven, as per plan
© Miele panelized fridge and dishwasher
Stainless steel undermount sink
Pantry, as per plan
BATHROOM FEATURES AND FINISHES AS ONE DELISLE
5. Higher Price Per Square Foot
Luxury developments typically start at $1,800/sq.ft and can exceed $2,000/sq.ft. However, true luxury developers focus less on price and more on creating an unparalleled lifestyle. Presentation centers showcase intricate details, fully modeled suites, and design samples that immerse buyers in the experience. Remember: you’re not just paying for space—you’re investing in a sophisticated living experience.
6. Amenities
Luxury condos go above and beyond with amenities. Beyond the basics like gyms, lounges, and concierge services, you’ll find exclusive offerings such as valet parking, private dining rooms, spa services, and even dedicated apps for managing bookings, services, and deliveries. Maintenance fees reflect this elevated level of service, often starting at $1.00/sq.ft.
FEATURED AMENITIES AT ONE DELISLE
Amenities
24-Hour Concierge
Lobby Lounge – seating areas and fireplace
Ante Room
Porte Cochère
Ravine Terrace – including pool lounge area, BBQ, and dining area
Pool (Interior)
Fitness Centre – tailored to any health and workout regime
The Wellness Spa – including a Himalayan Salt Room, Eucalyptus Steam Room, Infrared Sauna, and Private Japanese Terraces join the Spa
Chef’s Kitchen and Private Dining Room
Wine and Cocktail Lounge
Kids’ Playroom
Lounge areas and co-working spaces
Pet Spa
Delisle Park
7. Fewer Suites per Building
Luxury developments prioritize exclusivity, often featuring fewer units than typical condos. For example, instead of 350-420 units in a 35-story building, luxury developments may offer larger suites with fewer residences, fostering a sense of privacy and community.
ONE DELISLE PROJECT DETAILS
Project Name: One Delisle
Location: 1 Delisle Avenue, Toronto, ON
Storeys: 47 - with Retail on the Ground Floor
Units: 383 - Suites will vary as there may be buyers that have the option to combine suites. ( This option can be made available up until a certain point of the construction phase.)
Unit Sizes: 488 sq. ft. – 3,089 sq. ft.
Bedrooms: 1 Bedroom, 1 Bedroom + Dens,
2 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom + Dens,
3 Bedroom and Penthouse suites
Three Collections of Residences
City Collection | Floors 5 to 29
Sky Collection | Floors 30 to 43
Penthouse Collection | Floors 45 to 47
Starting Price: $1.1 mil
Expected Completion: 2027
8. Cutting-Edge Technology
Modern luxury condos integrate advanced technology, including keyless entry, smart home systems for lighting and climate control, and app-based tools for managing service requests and deliveries. These features ensure convenience and elevate the living experience.
LIST OF SMART HOME FEATURES AT ONE DELISLE
SMART HOME
Mail room and automated parcel storage
Smart home building system – including a mobile resident app available to all residents
Application will control in-suite thermostats, enable amenity booking, and include features for community, security, and privacy
Keyless suite entry locks
Utility submetering for electricity, water, and thermal Wi-Fi – provided in principle building common areas
Cell phone repeaters – to increase signal coverage throughout the building and parking garages
Final Thoughts
Understanding what defines a Condo is crucial for making an informed purchase. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for advice—I’m here to help guide you through the process!
FOR YOUR THOUGHTS!
So if your being sold on this is the best deal - ask why?
If your being sold as - the is the best and cheapest price per square foot - then you should ask - why? What are they not putting in there that is making it the ‘best deal’. Because heres a word of advice - if you are being sold on it being this is the best deal - in 4-5 years when you walk into your brand new home and you are trying to sell it - remember that is exactly what that resale buyer is coming for - because you are the deal! Not the profit!
For more information on ONE DELISLE or and Inquiry contact:
+1-647-526-367
@DORIANA.YPHS
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