1 Market Street

What could be better than living in a building named after Toronto’s most beloved food market? Living right beside it, of course. In fact, the soft lofts at 1 Market Street are named for both St. Lawrence Market as well as its proximity to Lake Ontario. For those who don’t know, a wharf is synonymous with a quay — a place for boats to dock in a harbour.

Even with all of these exciting surroundings, the Market Wharf 2 Condo Lofts still manages to steal the show. An eye-catching, 34-storey tower juts from a red brick podium, both of which combined comprise Market Wharf 2 Lofts. The tower features an ultra-modern design brought to Toronto by Context Developments, with glass-clad balconies seemingly on alternating angles. Some say these resemble sails moving to and fro in the wind, while others might opt to compare them with the waves of the water below, or the shifting clouds overhead.

The Market Wharf II’s sister building, Market Wharf, is located nearby as well, at 3 Market Street. Built two years earlier, there was clearly enough demand after the initial building’s success to warrant a second, 357-unit residence next door at 1 Market Street.

Completed in 2013, the tower at Market Wharf 2 Lofts reaches to 34 storeys, allowing for some really remarkable views. Even from the gym residents can peer into the world outside, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that surround exercisers at 1 Market Street. The building also boasts a cinema, party room, and guest suites, as well as visitor parking.

In order to distinguish between the various options afforded to prospective buyers (or so as not to confuse current residents), different layouts have been named by Context Developments. Market Flats, for example, consist of one storey, and these aptly face toward St. Lawrence Market. Market Towns overlook the same market, however these span two levels and boast private terraces.

Next come the Water Suites, which cover one storey, and offer views of Lake Ontario. And finally there are the penthouses, located on the uppermost levels and always ready to impress. Thanks to the building’s height, however, outstanding views can be had from every type of unit.

When it comes to size, the homes in Market Wharf 2 Lofts can be very generous. While those looking to land Toronto condos for sale without breaking the bank will be more than pleased with the smaller units that begin at about 400 square feet, the largest homes here reach to a stunning 2,700 — that’s almost double the size of the largest unit at Market Wharf I.

As mentioned, balconies are prevalent throughout the lofts at 1 Market Street. One terrace that comes attached to a three-bedroom penthouse unit even measures in at just over 1,200 square feet. A wavy wall of glass wraps its way around this particular unit, making for arguably some of the best natural lighting in the city.

After the building has been explored, and the amenities taken full advantage of, there will surely come a moment when new residents of Market Wharf II are ready to venture out into the St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood. Luckily, the St. Lawrence Market area is chock-full of entertainment, shops, green spaces, and more.

To begin with the obvious, St. Lawrence Market is just next door to Market Wharf II. This spot is ideal for stocking up on fresh produce, fish and meat, and baked goods, as well as bulk goods, spices, and ready-made meals from a range of Toronto’s global residents. Dating back to 1803, the tradition of the farmers market even remains today: on Saturdays, a weekly produce market inhabits the North building, while this space is taken over by antique hawkers on Sundays.

Those looking to enjoy some culture can visit a number of establishments in the area, such as the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, or the Design Exchange, all of which are within walking distance from 1 Market Street. The Distillery District is also within close reach, as well as the Entertainment District, home to the Scotiabank Arena, the Rogers Centre, the CN Tower, and the Ripley’s Aquarium.

Even those who need to visit other areas of the city on a daily basis are in luck, thanks to the Market Wharf 2’s central location. Jarvis Street is an ideal route for both drivers and cyclists heading north, while Front Street East and the Gardiner Expressway will surely be taken advantage of by any car owner living in the building.

Public transit is equally accessible from 1 Market Street. Union Station is a 10-minute walk away, while a bus ride will shave 2 minutes off the journey, and protect travellers from the cold once the weather turns.