Visitors to the International Film Festival will discover liveable neighborhoods as varied as their inhabitants, says Julia Viele 

Hoggs Hollow, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

If you’re seeking a city that blends culture, culinary excellence and luxury, Toronto easily comes to mind. The Canadian metropolis is among the most multicultural in the world, with more than 140 languages spoken—and the means to satisfy just about any food craving. That same diversity is reflected in its vibrant cultural life and contrasting neighborhoods. 

Situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto produces global talent across music, cinema and sports—and hosts it too. September sees the return of both the Toronto Biennial of Art and the Toronto International Film Festival, now in its 51st year. The streets will buzz with premieres, screenings and celebrity stays at the Four Seasons and Hazelton Hotel in the glitzy Yorkville neighborhood.

A meeting point between downtown and midtown, Yorkville offers high-end boutiques, Victorian homes, European flair and walkability—whether to an ice-cream parlor, cafe or fashionable restaurant, such as the “see and be seen” Italian eatery Sotto Sotto.

Yorkville, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Tucked away on Gloucester Lane, a side street close to the action, is a historic building that was once home to the creative space of Canadian filmmaker Norman Jewison. 

Today, its fifth-floor penthouse spans almost 10,000 square feet, with exposed brick, large windows and natural light. “If you ask 1,000 people in Toronto where Gloucester is, maybe five people could tell you,” says Sotheby’s International Realtor Paul Maranger of the location. “It’s the perfect amount of seclusion.”

With more than two decades of experience in the city’s luxury real estate market, Maranger knows the city well. “Toronto is a place of distinctive neighborhoods, each with their own personality and amenities which attract people to that specific neighborhood,” he says.

Rosedale, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

A short walk from Yorkville is Somerville. Pretty and polished, the area thrums with small grocers, cafes, bars and independent shops, including Coco Market for wellness essentials and Le Tigre for drinks. 

The next neighborhood along is Rosedale. “People who are buying here do so for the area; it’s a very comfortable and beautiful environment,” says Gianpiero Pugliese, founder of Audax, an architecture, design and building firm based in Toronto. Rosedale has two Heritage Conservation Districts to ensure homes are renovated sympathetically. One Edwardian villa is a prime example: a multiyear transformation left it with a modern, sleek and contemporary feel—and its rich architectural history intact.

Lawrence Park, Toronto | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

In contrast are the grand modern mansions of the Bridle Path, otherwise known as “Millionaire’s Row”, perhaps Toronto’s most exclusive neighborhood. “These are estates,” says Pugliese, “with all the amenities you want in a house.” One such is the Ravine Mansion, with 25-foot ceilings, a library and staff quarters.  

Another affluent neighborhood is Lawrence Park, where vast lots are the norm. Sitting on a particularly wide one is the architecturally striking Bézier Curve House, so named after the mathematical curve of its zinc-shingled roof, which tops an L-shaped structure wrapping around a lush landscaped courtyard and pool. 

“Lawrence Park is extremely pretty and very leafy,” says Maranger, who adds that the area’s access to good schools is a key draw. Passing traffic is mostly local, so you’ll always see kids out riding their bikes or playing on the grass.

Hoggs Hollow, Toronto, Canada |  Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

To the north lies Hoggs Hollow, where the walnut, teak and glass of the minimalist, midcentury-inspired Valley House, designed by Superkül, strike yet another architectural note. 

“I think that’s the essence of Toronto,” remarks Maranger. “There is so much personality and [so many] different vibes. Ultimately, I think that’s what makes it approachable for a buyer because, depending on your needs and desires, you have options.”

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