295 Davenport Road

Toronto’s streets are mainly grid-like, with some exceptions. As if to complement the curvature of Davenport Road as it bends around Bedford Road, the distinctive corner of the Creed Lofts is similarly arched.

Somewhere along the yellow brick exterior is a heritage plaque reading “Creed’s Storage Vaults Ltd. 1937.” The description mentions the building’s Streamlined Moderne architectural style — signified by its horizontal orientation and the aforementioned curved lines — as well as its historical significance.

The structure was originally used as a fur warehouse, storing all of the fuzzy goods for Creed’s department store in the 1930’s. The store is in fact credited with giving Yorkville the upscale reputation it enjoys today.

Following Creeds’ bankruptcy in the 1980’s however, the space was given a new, residential function. The building was divided into 19 Toronto lofts in 1999, residing over only two levels in this boutique, low-rise, yellow brick edifice.

Amenities are quite limited at the Creed Lofts, although visitor parking is a significant bonus for residents. With troublesome parking restrictions abundant in the city, guests can join residents of the Creed Lofts for a cocktail (or two) before walking through The Annex or Yorkville for some evening entertainment.

Every hard loft at 295 Davenport Road is spread out over two floors, which are connected by impressive hardwood staircases. Suites range in size from large to larger, or approximately 1,000 to 2,300 square feet, and come multiple styles including one bedroom, one bedroom plus den, and two bedrooms.

Additionally, these sprawling lofts are made to feel even larger with their open concept layouts, towering ceilings, and outdoor spaces. Units are also equipped with direct street access, and residents are welcome to place barbecues on terraces or patios.

This way both a single professional working in the swanky Bloor Street offices, and a young family that enjoys strolling along the tree-lined Annex streets, are equally suited to Toronto condos for sale at 196 Davenport Road.

The lofts at 295 Davenport are strategically sandwiched between two neighbourhoods with divergent vibes. To the east, Yorkville can only be described as ritzy, high-end, and glamourous. Upscale restaurants here double as celebrity sighting zones, especially during the Toronto International Film Festival each September. Shops in Yorkville and along Bloor Street serve a dual purpose, as both suppliers of fashionable goods and artistic exhibits that are amusing enough to just look at.

The Annex, on the other hand, acquires its character from its proximity to the University of Ontario and the elegant and mature Victorian homes that line the residential streets. Along Bloor and Dupont Streets, businesses are generally independent laid back, as are their customers. Students, academics, and families all take pleasure in the down-to-earth atmosphere of the Annex every day of the week.

Cultural entertainment is plentiful from the Creeds Lofts: residents can head to the Royal Ontario Museum for a history lesson, the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema for some informative diversions, or Lee’s Palace to catch the latest in musical acts.

Provisions aren’t lacking either for those living at 295 Davenport. The Whole Foods on Avenue Road is the best bet for organic goods, while both Bulk Barn and Metro on Bloor Street are perfect for stocking up on staples. As well, independent shops along Bloor and Dupont supply locals with fresh cheeses, meats, baked goods, produce, and more.

Seeing as most Yorkville residences are glossy new condos, and mainly Victorian homes are found in the Annex, the Creed Lofts enjoys a special status as one of only a select few lofts in the neighbourhood.

Travel to and from the Creed Lofts is simple due to its central location. Dupont Station is accessible within minutes from 295 Davenport, either by walking or via bus. Alternatively, St. George, Spadina, Museum, and Bay stations are all within walking distance, and buses also run along Dupont for east-west travel.

For those with two wheels of their own, St. George is an ideal street for cycling. From here, other arterial roads with bike lanes can be accessed, such as Harbord, College, Adelaide, and Richmond.

Drivers living at the Creed Lofts will enjoy their proximity to Avenue Road, Bathurst Street, and Spadina Avenue. From these, residents can access the 401 to the north and the Gardiner Expressway to the south. Additionally, the Don Valley Parkway can be reached in about 15 minutes via Bloor Street East.