The sound of live music, cheerful conversation and the smell of fresh-brewed coffee floated through a garden-themed party held at 2500 Yonge Street in Toronto last month — the future site of The Capitol Residences, a high-rise condo community set to be constructed atop Toronto’s historic Capitol Theatre.
Purchasers, agents and community officials gathered at the private event on July 14th to celebrate the official groundbreaking ceremony on the project. Attendees enjoyed a live jazz performance courtesy of Main Event Music, a local performing arts group and long-time tenant of The Capitol Theatre.
The event offered future residents a meaningful way to celebrate the purchase of their new homes with the teams that brought the project to life — Madison Group and Westdale Properties.
Josh Zagdanski, the vice president of high rise at Madison Group, took to the stage and spoke eagerly about the future of The Capitol.
“Madison and Westdale are thrilled to be developing a residential project that pays homage to and brings new life to this historic venue,” he said. “The Capitol Theatre has played host to countless premieres and celebrities, but most importantly generations of Toronto residents.”
Attendees included Toronto City Councillor Mike Colle, the project’s architect — Russell Fleischer from Turner Fliescher Architects Inc. — and interior designer Alessandro Munge from Studio Munge, who spoke about the building’s distinct design and inspiration.
The Capitol Residences fuses modern design features with the building’s original art deco architecture, giving all who enter a feeling of stepping into history. A grand marble archway with brass inlays at the entrance of the building opens the door to a theatrical and glamorous reception, a theme that continues throughout the building.
Image by BINYAN Studios
Units range from one to three bedrooms in size and feature Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, Paramount fixtures and oversized private terraces with views overlooking the city.
Residents can enjoy a plethora of amenities within the building, including a children’s play room, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with private workout areas, golf simulator and parlour, and an extensive indoor and outdoor social lounge featuring an intimate greenhouse and private seating areas.
The Capitol Residences embodies the perfect mix of luxury, leisure and entertainment to suit the uniqueness of everyone’s lifestyle. But living in a reimagined piece of Toronto’s history isn’t the only thing The Capitol Residences has to offer.
Set in a prime location, in the centre of the bustling Midtown Village, purchasers are surrounded by life-enriching amenities, lively nightlife and a diverse selection of niche restaurants, coffee shops and bars.
The Capitol places residents mere steps from the Yonge-Eglinton TTC subway line and forthcoming Eglinton Crosstown LRT, the Yonge Eglinton Centre and Alexander Muir Park — a location that promises easy access to the city’s best attractions.
The community’s construction marks an additional step in the right direction for Toronto’s greenspaces. In conjunction with the City of Toronto, the teams at Madison Group and Westdale Properties are proud to a bring a fresh new greenspace to The Capitol’s backyard with the conversion of a parking lot on the west side of the property into a park for residents and community members to enjoy, a welcomed and unique addition to the neighbourhood.
Since its launch, The Capitol Residences has drawn plenty of attention from homebuyers looking to call the iconic location home. Currently, only a few units remain on the market.
For more information on The Capitol Residences or to register, visit capitolresidences.ca
Toronto has few historical buildings, and the Capitol Theatre located at 2492 Yonge Street remains one of the few. The Capitol is a boutique residence project by the Madison Group that is breathing new life into the iconic Toronto landmark Capitol Theatre. This theatre-turned condominium is a partnership between Westdale Properties and the Madison Group. This amazing development is being directed by the award-winning Hariri Pontarini Architects and Turner Fleischer Architects, with interior design by the award-winning Studio Munge.
The Toronto-based real estate development company, Madison Group, has been in business for 55 years. They have extensive experience in creating communities, low- and high-rise residential properties and commercial properties in both NYC and Toronto. The team is focused on reaching the highest standard for well-designed and executed properties that surpass their customer’s expectations.
On July 14, representatives from Madison Group — including Josh Zagdanski, vice president of High Rise at Madison Group, Alessandro Munge — founder & design director of Studio Munge, Elliott Taube; president of EMT Consulting, and Mike Colle, Councillor, spoke at the official groundbreaking of their new project, The Capitol, to give us a sneak peek of what to expect.
This residence will pay tribute to the history of the space with the original marquee and façade on the first three floors being preserved.
The theatre debuted in 1914 and closed in 1998 when it transitioned from a theatre to a popular event venue. The building will be transformed into a 14-storey residence with 145 suites ranging from 424 to 1950 square feet. This transformation will include extensive private terraces, oversized balconies and remarkable city views. Green space is very important to this new development, as there is a desire for more of it in this bustling neighbourhood. There will be tiered levels of terraces on the east side, while the west side will provide the sought-after green spaces to the city. The parking lot will be turned into a 3,700-square-meter park, giving residents space to enjoy the outdoors.
At the intersection of Yonge and Castlefield, a new Torontonian theatrical experience is preparing for opening night. Leading real estate developer Madison Group, in collaboration with Westdale Properties, is setting the stage for a high-end condominium project that will have every resident feeling like a star. The Capitol Residences will stand at the site of the illustrious Capitol Theatre, which dazzled guests from 1914 to 1998.
THE CURTAIN RISES ON A NEW ERA
During its heyday, and notably during the Great Depression of the 1930s, the Capitol Theatre transported guests through its magnificent programming. For almost a century, stage and screen were home to presentations such as Wings of the Morning and Jane Eyre.
“Over the last century, the Capitol Theatre has been a staple in Toronto’s entertainment scene and we are honoured to bring new life to this highly historic venue through the launch of its namesake residences,” says Josh Zagdanski, Vice President of High Rise at Madison Group. “This mid-rise project will capture the nostalgic vibrancy of years past while adding a modern twist on the original style. Just as the Capitol Theatre once brought joy and entertainment to the city, The Capitol Residences will bring new liveliness to the neighbourhood.”
“Over the last century, the Capitol Theatre has been a staple in Toronto’s entertainment scene and we are honoured to bring new life to this highly historic venue.” – Josh Zagdanski, Vice President of High Rise at Madison Group
SETTING THE STAGE
Residents will be able to choose from 145 units, offering living spaces of 425 to 1950 sq. ft. in one, two, or three-bedroom configurations, starting at under $1 million.
Hariri Pontarini Architects and Turner Fleischer Architects are the award-winning teams responsible for recreating an air of anticipation and excitement with the building’s transformation, which will pay homage to grand evenings of yore.
From the thoughtfully preserved original marquee and façade designed by John MacNee Jeffrey, the three-storey former theatre will rise an additional 11 floors above Toronto’s streets. The new building exterior boasts sand-cast brick and a smooth stone finish to harmoniously integrate elements of its history into its current role.
IN THE LOGES
Studio Munge has outdone itself to craft a world evocative of theatre and film in the 1920s. The experience begins from the moment residents pass through a grand porte cochère and into a concierge-orchestrated lobby. Decadent furnishings are illuminated by unique custom fixtures; a hint of what awaits in each Gallery Suite, Premiere Penthouse, Marquee Estate Suite, or Orchestra Townhome. Bespoke touches and 10-foot ceilings make each residence worthy of the spotlight.
The decadence extends outdoors to allow residents of the Capitol to benefit from a rare show of nature in the city. A tiered eastern façade will provide terraces with an infusion of greenery, while a 3,700-square-metre park flanking the west side of the building enhances the neighbourhood, as it extends the space for residents to enjoy.
The Capitol Residences Amenities
● Automated parcel storage
● Lush green park on the west side extending over 3,700 square metres
● Gym with private workout areas
● Golf simulator and lounge area
● Social club featuring a lounge, dining and servery
● Extensive outdoor lounge and dining area, including a garden and grill stations
MADISON GROUP — The 14-storey Capitol Residences in Toronto from Madison Group and Westdale Properties will feature the original facade and marquee of the old Capitol Theatre.
TORONTO — Madison Group has announced groundbreaking for a 14-storey residence at Castlefield and Duplex Avenues in Toronto that will preserve the original marquee and facade of the Capitol Theatre.
Madison is partners on the project with Westdale Properties. Designers are Hariri Pontarini Architects and Turner Fleischer Architects and interiors are by Studio Munge.
The Capitol Residences will feature 147 suites ranging from 535 to 2,165 square feet and pricing starting in the $900,000s. The project will feature tributes to the site’s history as a theatre, stated a release.
The original Capital Theatre facade was designed by John MacNee Jeffrey. The art deco structure debuted in 1914 and closed in 1998, subsequently becoming an event venue.
The groundbreaking ceremony on July 14 was hosted by Josh Zagdanski, vice-president of highrise at Madison Group.
The new design team selected sand-cast brick and light-coloured smooth stone finish for the main body of the building. The residences will feature private terraces and large balconies with city views.
Amenities include all-day concierge service, automated parcel storage, gym, golf simulator, social club with lounge and dining facilities, outdoor lounge and dining area, greenhouse, children’s play area, pet spa and residential guest suite.
Yesterday, Madison Group in partnership with Westdale Properties held a ground breaking ceremony for The Capitol Residences, a boutique condominium that will bring new life to the historic Capitol Theatre block in Midtown Toronto. The developers hosted purchasers, project partners, and local representatives to kick off construction of the luxury mid-rise project.
Shovels in the ground at The Capitol Residences, image by Téana Grazianihttps://urbantoronto.ca/release/ad-leaderboard-container.php
Located on the northwest corner of Yonge and Castlefield, The Capitol will feature 145 suites ranging from 425 to 1,950 ft² in area. Designed by Turner Fleischer Architects and Hariri Pontarini Architects, the project will pay homage to the Capitol Theatre’s rich history from its 1914 debut, to its final curtain call in 1998, before it was repurposed as a popular event venue.
The Capitol by Turner Fleischer Architects and Hariri Pontarini Architects for Madison Group and Westdale Properties, image courtesy of Madison Group
At the ground breaking event, Josh Zagdanski, Vice President of High-Rise at Madison Group, spoke of the project, highlighting how the new building will represent the history of the former theatre while offering a unique line up of amenities including a golf simulation room, and a vibrant kids’ play area amongst many others. He also touched on the quality of the neighbourhood, offering a huge variety of shops, restaurants, and other conveniences right outside The Capitol’s future front door, in addition to a private girl’s school – St Clement’s – located right next door.
Josh Zagdanski speaking at the event, image by Téana Graziani
The residences will boast extensive private terraces and oversized balconies, offering wide Midtown views. While the tiered levels on the east side will offer large private terraces for many residents, considering the desire for green space in the bustling neighbourhood, the west side of the property will add new green space to the city that everyone will be able to enjoy with the conversion of a surface parking lot into a 3,700m² park, a fact that was highlighted in particular by Toronto City Councillor Mike Colle who also spoke at the event.
East-facing terraces of The Capitol, image courtesy of Madison Group
Last to speak was Alessandro Munge, Founder and Design Director of Studio Munge, who is in charge of the interiors of the building. He spoke of how the amenities and shared spaces of The Capitol were inspired to be an extension of the residences, and to be places that residents would be excited to use regularly.
Meanwhile, just around the corner from where the event was held, construction is gearing up…
Construction underway at the rear of The Capitol, image by Téana Graziani
…with crew members on site, standing amongst a collection of construction machines and materials in the parking lot at the rear of the theatre – which is currently being used as a staging site while the theatre undergoes restoration work, ahead of becoming a public park.
Park space visible at rear, image courtesy of Madison Group
On the Yonge-facing side of the theatre, the sidewalk has been fenced off following the closure of the shops that used to exist in its base. Machines are now carefully working on dismantling parts of the building that will not be restored, while preparing to protect the heritage walls that will be featured, all under the supervision of heritage specialists GBCA Architects.
Construction underway at the Yonge-facing portion of The Capitol, image by Téana Graziani
Madison Groups’ The Capitol Officially Breaks Ground
Boutique residences brings new life to The Capitol Theatre through reviving its rich history with thoughtful amenities and nostalgic design
Madison Group, a leading real estate development company with developments in Toronto and New York City, unveils details for The Capitol Residences, an iconic new building and tribute to the Toronto landmark, The Capitol Theatre. In partnership with Westdale Properties and directed by the award-winning team at Hariri Pontarini Architects & Turner Fleischer Architects, the famed Capitol Theatre will be transformed into a stunning 14-storey residence while preserving the original marquee and façade. Complete with interiors designed by Studio Munge, the stage is set to welcome a new era of inspiration to Toronto’s Midtown Village.
Located at Yonge and Castlefield, The Capitol Residences will feature 147 suites ranging from 535 to 2,165 sq. ft. and pricing starting in the $900’s. The project will pay homage to the theatre’s rich history from its 1914 debut to its last curtain call in 1998 before becoming a popular event venue. The theatre was home to spectacular screenings and shows including Annabella, Wings of the Morning, and Jane Eyre. With thoughtful amenities such as a speakeasy-inspired golf simulator and parlour as well as the resident social club, Madison Group will create a grand residence reminiscent of decadent nights out while welcoming a new era of memorable nights in.
“Over the last century, the Capitol Theatre has been a staple in Toronto’s entertainment scene and we are honoured to bring new life to this highly historic venue through the launch of its namesake residences,” says Josh Zagdanski, Vice President of High Rise at Madison Group. “This boutique project will capture the nostalgic vibrancy of years past while adding a modern take on the original style. Just as The Capitol Theatre once brought joy and entertainment to the city, The Capitol Residences will bring new liveliness to the neighbourhood.”
The Capitol Residences Architecture:
Hariri Pontarini Architects & Turner Fleischer Architects have attentively designed a timeless piece of architecture that is eloquent and refined using a palette that ties the building both to the existing context and to the original Capital Theatre facade previously designed by John MacNee Jeffrey. The team selected a warm-coloured, sand-cast brick and light-coloured smooth stone finish for the main body of the building, seamlessly blending old and new. The rising residences will boast extensive private terraces and oversized balconies with remarkable city views.
The tiered levels on the East side will bring in refreshing landscapes to the terraces. Mindfully considering the desire for green space in the bustling neighbourhood, the West side of the property will add new greenspace to the city with the conversion of a parking lot into a 3,700 square metre park, ensuring residents have lots of space in the city to live, work and play.
The Capitol Residences Interiors:
Studio Munge has created an experience characteristic of theatre and film as early as the 1920s. The original art deco marquee and façade compliment an elaborate porte cochère to usher residents into a lobby conducted by The Capitol Concierge. Punctuated with whimsical custom fixtures and plush furnishings, it’s a perfect preview for guests waiting to be shown up to their homes. Featuring 10′ ceilings and handpicked finishes, every home has the best seat in the house—whether it’s a Gallery Suite, Premiere Penthouse, Marquee Suite, or an Orchestra Townhome.
The Capitol Residences Amenities:
24/7 concierge service
Automated parcel storage
Lush public park on the West side expanding over 3,700 square metres
Gym with private workout areas
Golf simulator and parlour
The social club featuring a lounge, dining and servery
Extensive outdoor lounge and dining area – including The Capitol Gardens featuring an intimate greenhouse and private seating areas
A curated kids play area
Pet spa
Residential guest suite
The Capitol Residences will add to Madison Group’s impressive portfolio within the Yonge- Eglinton community. For over five decades, the company has invested in the vitality of this neighbourhood through offering residential, office and retail spaces and now, residences at The Capitol—as well as their ART program which inspires locals and visitors with an illuminated walkway designed by muralist David Guinn and lighting designer Drew Billiau, Madison is building a neighbourhood that will flourish for generations to come.
ABOUT MADISON GROUP
For 55 years, Toronto-based Madison Group is a widely diversified real estate development company with extensive experience in creating master-planned communities, award-winning high-rise and low-rise residential projects, and a substantial portfolio of office and commercial properties in Toronto and New York City. Madison Group is defined by the talent, dedication and passion of its team; focused on setting the standard for value, design and customer satisfaction.
ABOUT WESTDALE PROPERTIES For more than 60 years, Westdale has owned, managed, and developed real estate across Canada. Westdale is committed to creating positive experiences for thousands of people who call their buildings home, and for those who work and shop at their properties. This commitment extends to partners, suppliers, and a team of over 200 dedicated employees. With a core business in multifamily residential real estate, Westdale has expanded to include a portfolio of retail, office, and industrial properties. Westdale is also actively involved in a number of significant urban residential developments across the country, including projects in Toronto, Calgary, and Halifax.
The three-storey building at 2500 Yonge Street, erected in 1922, included street retail, rental apartments above, and a theatre behind a prominent marquee. The theatre was designed by architect J.M. Jeffrey for a Mr. McClelland, who had arrived in Canada from Kingston, Jamaica. The theatre possessed a screen (it started with silent films), a stage to accommodate vaudeville, and space near the stage for musicians. With the advent of “talking pictures”, the theatre was converted in 1933 for sound. It closed in November 1998, but despite that, it was not demolished. After a $2 million renovation, The Capitol was restored to its former glory, and re-opened as a special event venue named the Capitol Event Theatre.
2490-2506 Yonge Street, 1926 Archives of Ontariohttps://urbantoronto.ca/release/ad-leaderboard-container.php
The building’s frontage on Yonge is visually distinctive through its large scale, (most neighbouring buildings were only one of two typical storefronts wide), elegantly proportioned, and boasts architectural features from Late Classical Revival style. Valued for its contribution to the Yonge Street character in the area of Yonge and Eglinton in early 20th century, and its role as a local landmark, the property was added to the Heritage Register by the City of Toronto in September, 2016.
Heritage Architects Explain the History Behind The Capitol Residences
The three-storey building at 2500 Yonge Street, erected in 1922, included street retail, rental apartments above, and a theatre behind a prominent marquee. The theatre was designed by architect J.M. Jeffrey for a Mr. McClelland, who had arrived in Canada from Kingston, Jamaica. The theatre possessed a screen (it started with silent films), a stage to accommodate vaudeville, and space near the stage for musicians. With the advent of “talking pictures”, the theatre was converted in 1933 for sound. It closed in November 1998, but despite that, it was not demolished. After a $2 million renovation, The Capitol was restored to its former glory, and re-opened as a special event venue named the Capitol Event Theatre.
2490-2506 Yonge Street, 1926 Archives of Ontariohttps://urbantoronto.ca/release/ad-leaderboard-container.php
The building’s frontage on Yonge is visually distinctive through its large scale, (most neighbouring buildings were only one of two typical storefronts wide), elegantly proportioned, and boasts architectural features from Late Classical Revival style. Valued for its contribution to the Yonge Street character in the area of Yonge and Eglinton in early 20th century, and its role as a local landmark, the property was added to the Heritage Register by the City of Toronto in September, 2016.
Recent image of the heritage structure, from submission to the City
The plan for this Midtown standout is to build on its iconic heritage, retaining and restoring the facade and original marquee, while building new residential space overtop with ascending landscaped terraces. Handling the transformation of the heritage features is GBCA Architects, who are specialists in the field. Through thoughtful design, the original theatre building will remain a prominent feature on the streetscape, with the new construction reflecting a distinct, yet compatible design aesthetic.
Incorporation of a new development at a heritage site is always tricky, but the team believes it is doing so in a manner that allows the existing heritage structure to be fully appreciated in three dimensions. According to the heritage assessment submitted to the City by GBCA, setbacks will reveal the original massing and form of the Capitol Theatre, as well as that of adjacent heritage buildings. Where the new development aligns with the street on both Yonge Street and Castlefield Avenue, the elevations are to be scaled to match the adjacent heritage properties. Further, added articulation on all levels of the elevation and building geometry is meant to lend itself to a sympathetic relationship while distinguishing itself from the existing heritage building.
Heritage Architects Explain the History Behind The Capitol Residences
The three-storey building at 2500 Yonge Street, erected in 1922, included street retail, rental apartments above, and a theatre behind a prominent marquee. The theatre was designed by architect J.M. Jeffrey for a Mr. McClelland, who had arrived in Canada from Kingston, Jamaica. The theatre possessed a screen (it started with silent films), a stage to accommodate vaudeville, and space near the stage for musicians. With the advent of “talking pictures”, the theatre was converted in 1933 for sound. It closed in November 1998, but despite that, it was not demolished. After a $2 million renovation, The Capitol was restored to its former glory, and re-opened as a special event venue named the Capitol Event Theatre.
2490-2506 Yonge Street, 1926 Archives of Ontariohttps://urbantoronto.ca/release/ad-leaderboard-container.php
The building’s frontage on Yonge is visually distinctive through its large scale, (most neighbouring buildings were only one of two typical storefronts wide), elegantly proportioned, and boasts architectural features from Late Classical Revival style. Valued for its contribution to the Yonge Street character in the area of Yonge and Eglinton in early 20th century, and its role as a local landmark, the property was added to the Heritage Register by the City of Toronto in September, 2016.
Recent image of the heritage structure, from submission to the City
The plan for this Midtown standout is to build on its iconic heritage, retaining and restoring the facade and original marquee, while building new residential space overtop with ascending landscaped terraces. Handling the transformation of the heritage features is GBCA Architects, who are specialists in the field. Through thoughtful design, the original theatre building will remain a prominent feature on the streetscape, with the new construction reflecting a distinct, yet compatible design aesthetic.
Incorporation of a new development at a heritage site is always tricky, but the team believes it is doing so in a manner that allows the existing heritage structure to be fully appreciated in three dimensions. According to the heritage assessment submitted to the City by GBCA, setbacks will reveal the original massing and form of the Capitol Theatre, as well as that of adjacent heritage buildings. Where the new development aligns with the street on both Yonge Street and Castlefield Avenue, the elevations are to be scaled to match the adjacent heritage properties. Further, added articulation on all levels of the elevation and building geometry is meant to lend itself to a sympathetic relationship while distinguishing itself from the existing heritage building.
The legendary Capitol Theatre returns as an epic new residence
The conservation strategy as detailed by GBCA addresses mainly the exterior masonry walls of the former theatre, and proposes a strategy that does not impact the building’s three-dimensional appearance. Additional strategies have been incorporated to retain fine grained retail along Yonge Street, reconstruct a volume that will reference the original theatre, and add a new pedestrian colonnade that will visually link Yonge Street to an adjacent heritage property.
How the heritage building will be combined with the new structure, from submission to the City
While the development will bring new residents and renewed vitality to this stretch of Yonge Street, the heritage architecture of The Capitol will be preserved for posterity.
Change is coming to the site of The Capitol Residences, a new condominium development from Madison Group and Westdale Properties at Yonge and Castlefield in Toronto’s Midtown. Since the sales centre opened a few months ago on Eglinton east of Yonge, numerous detailed renderings have been released, depicting exactly what will come to the site. The site itself sports promotional imagery that was put up on the south wall of the old Capitol Theatre in the fall.
Promotional imagery on the south side of the Capitol Theatre, image by UT Forum contributor Ottawanhttps://urbantoronto.ca/release/ad-leaderboard-container.php
Besides the leaves on the trees, much looks the same at the site today – but we are looking ahead to the coming year to see what Madison and Westdale will be bringing us in 2022, based on what has been shared with us over this past year.
A rollout of renderings for the 14-storey, Turner Fleischer Architects and Hariri Pontarini Architects-designed building began earlier this year with images showing the restored exterior walls of the 1918-built Capitol Theatre, its marquee, and canopy over the Yonge Street sidewalk.
The Capitol, image courtesy of Madison/Westdale
We got a first peek at The Capitol Residences’ Studio Munge-appointed interiors through a rendering of the porte-cochère that suggested a luxe experience. We then got a glimpse at the lavish golf simulator room, and an enticing amenity terrace.
Next, we got a look at the building’s social club, which features a double-sided fireplace which serves as a centrepiece for the room, while doors connect to an outdoor patio area. Unseen indoors, a dining area with servery connects to the lounge below.
Party room at The Capitol, image courtesy of Madison/Westdale
Other amenities at The Capitol include a gym with private workout areas, a pet spa, a children’s play room, a residential guest suite, a lobby with a 24/7 concierge service and automated parcel storage, and an extensive outdoor lounge and dining area. The building’s outdoor space will include an intimate greenhouse and private seating area to be known as The Capitol Gardens.
Terraces and greenhouse at The Capitol, image courtesy of Madison/Westdale
The Capitol Residences will be bringing 147 one, two, and three-bedroom residences to a stretch of Yonge Street that has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade, home to a vibrant shopping and dining scene. The units range in area from 525 to 2,165 ft², with prices starting in the $900,000s.
In-suite finishes of The Capitol image courtesy of Madison/Westdale
In addition to the incorporation of heritage walls, the project is set to benefit the surrounding community with the conversion of a surface parking lot on the western portion of the site into a new 3,700m² public park. When the building is complete, all units located on the west side of The Capitol will have views of the brand new park from both inside and from their generous private outdoor spaces. Lower terraces will enjoy natural light filtered through the adjacent tree canopy, while expansive neighbourhood views will grow as suites climb upwards. For the units which do not face the park, they will enjoy oversized balconies or terraces overlooking the vibrancy of Yonge Street.
The Capitol Residences with newly approved park to its west, image courtesy of Madison Group
More information on the development will come soon, but in the meantime, you can learn more from our Database file for the project, linked below. If you’d like, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum thread, or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.
“We are excited to announce that Toronto City Council has officially adopted the re-designation of the adjacent land to Parks and Open Space, providing The Capitol Residents with a new park,” said Josh Zagdanski, Vice-President, High-Rise of Madison Group.
The Capitol Residences with newly approved park to its west, image courtesy of Madison Grouphttps://urbantoronto.ca/release/ad-leaderboard-container.php
The park will replace what is currently a parking lot, and offer a total of 3,700m² of green space for both the residents of the building, and those of the surrounding community. When the building is complete, all units located on the west side of The Capitol will have views of the brand new park from both inside and from their generous private outdoor spaces. Lower terraces will enjoy natural light filtered through the adjacent tree canopy, while expansive neighbourhood views will grow as suites climb upwards. On the tenth floor, all residents will be able to enjoy a terrace with private seating areas and a communal greenhouse. For the units which do not face the park, they will enjoy oversized balconies or terraces overlooking the vibrancy of Yonge Street.
View over Yonge Street from The Capitol Residences, image courtesy of Madison Group
The Capitol is also in close proximity to additional parks in the area including Eglinton Park, Alexander Muir Gardens, Sherwood Park, and the Blythwood Ravine, meaning that residents will have their choice of green spaces when they wish to enjoy the outdoors.
You can learn more from our Database file for the project, linked below. If you’d like, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum thread, or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.
By Tracy HanesSpecial to the StarWed., Oct. 6, 2021 | 5 min. read
A new landmark came to Midtown Toronto in 1914 when the 1,300-seat York Theatre was built on Yonge St. at the corner of Castlefield Ave.
The theatre hosted vaudeville shows and silent films until 1922 when a three-storey building, new entrance and balcony were constructed and it was adapted to exclusively screen movies. Its transformation represented the work of architect Murray Brown, who designed Famous Players Theatres across Canada, and it was renamed the Capitol Theatre.
Now, a century later, the historic Capitol Theatre’s rich history will be integrated into another transformation as the site of the Capitol Residences, a mixed-use residential condominium project by the Madison Group. The design will retain the original, 20th-century classical revival façade and the theatre’s art deco stainless steel marquee, restore the entrance and the interior vestibule, and rebuild the theatre space.
Indi Miskolczi, who now lives in Peterborough, vividly remembers the excitement at the old theatre on June 12, 1981. Then a student at the Ontario College of Art, Miskolczi took transit to Midtown, stood in line under the Capitol’s marquee, followed the queue through the ornate lobby and took her seat in the sold-out theatre. That’s when she met another “Indy” for the first time — Harrison Ford’s character Indiana Jones.
“I remember the high ceilings and big chandeliers,” she says as she took in the theatre’s details until the lights dimmed. “And that night, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ became one of my all-time favourite movies.”
Thousands of other Torontonians have similar fond memories of the Capitol that, in the beginning, kept things friendly with the Laura Secord shop next door by not offering a confection and candy bar. In 1998, after being saved from demolition and after a $2-million renovation, the Capitol became an upscale event venue until finally closing shortly afterward.
“This site is in an incredible location with the best of town and country,” said Josh Zagdanski, vice-president of highrise at Madison Group. “It’s in the middle of Yonge North Village, which has all these wonderful shops and restaurants. It’s close to all the action of Yonge St. but far enough away to feel part of the neighbourhood. It’s a perfect balance and that’s why it’s unique.”
The property didn’t have a heritage designation when Madison purchased it. However, as the development team moved through the approvals process, they agreed with the city that it should have a conservation plan.
“Over time and throughout the later decades of the 20th century leading to this day, the building has grown to become an important complex that maintained and supported the commercial character of the street,” said Emad Ghattas, senior associate architect at GBCA Architects, the firm handling the heritage aspects of the project. Hariri Pontarini Architects and Turner Fleischer Architects have designed the new tiered building in a style that ties in with the heritage sand-cast brick and light stone.
The Capitol’s canopy and storefronts that adorn the entrance are significant features and plans include restoring the streetscape appearance to its 1937 style. The current canopy is an alteration, said Ghattas, and was stripped of some of its design features. “We are proposing to bring some of that excitement to the streetscape and are working with a lighting consultant on this portion, as lighting is an important component on this project.”
Zagdanski said initiatives for the heritage façade include retail outlets and the theatre itself will still be accessible to the public in some form, such as a restaurant or as a theatre. A new park, designed and built by the city and with a financial contribution from the developers, will cover nearly an acre and replace the old parking lot at the rear of the building.
“What’s great about (the theatre), is that it had its up and downs over the years, but it’s always been a place of community and gathering,” said Zagdanski.
“Our team felt a great obligation that the new project reimagines it as a place for community, a place for gathering. It’s been a real treat for us.”
The condominium tower will rise behind the façade, with a series of ascending landscaped terraces and oversized balconies. Zagdanski said the residential structure will have larger units with 10-foot ceilings and dens that can be closed off for working from home. There will be 145 units in all, with one-, two- and three-bedroom plans.
“Our expectation is we’ll get buyers from the surrounding communities and neighbourhood. This is up-living not downsizing,” said Zagdanski. “These people want to transition from their current homes to a more urban lifestyle, but also to a luxury lifestyle, and don’t want to lose anything in the transition.”
Madison Group consulted with local residents, the BIA and city councillor, and Zagdanski said the feedback helped inform the design and layouts. He added the Capitol Residences redevelopment reflects the municipal government’s objectives for that of stretch of North Yonge Village: “The city is not looking for towers here. A more intimate building is the intent and we helped pioneer that. It looks and feels right for the area, is close to neighbourhood shops and restaurants, very close to transit and will have all the amenities.” The building has a Walk Score of 90 and a Transit Score of 87.
Those amenities will include a high-end fitness centre, golf simulator, lounge/bar area, party room, kids’s play room and an outdoor amenity space with dining areas and barbecues
Alessandro Munge, principal in Studio Munge that specializes in luxury hotel, restaurant and residential design, took inspiration from the theatre’s history for the Capitol Residences for the interior spaces, said Zagdanski. “The design is very organic and had its story in the Capitol Theatre. Alessandro took it, ran with it and made it exceptional.” The theatre influence will be evident in the porte cochere and the grand entrance that is a throwback to the heyday of movie theatres with oxblood marble floors and walnut panelling. As well, the kids’ room will have a theatre stage.
“Honestly, we’re very excited about this project,” said Zagdanski.THTracy Hanes is a GTA-based writer and a freelance contributor for the Star. Reach her via email: tracyhanes@yahoo.ca
Suites: 145 units in 14-storey mixed-use building. One-, two-, three-bedroom-with-den units up to 3,000-plus sq. ft. Priced from $1 million. Tentative occupancy July 2025.
Building amenities: Fitness centre, golf simulator, lounge/bar area, party room, kids’s play room with stage and an outdoor amenity space with dining areas and barbecues
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