Project Vision and Detailed Scope
MORE TOGETHER. Percy Ellis is committed to building affordable, low-carbon apartments in walkable neighbourhoods, accessible to a diverse audience. The focus goes far beyond the bricks and mortar – tenant happiness is at the very heart of every project. Emphasis is placed on promoting healthy living, respectful and responsive communication, and creating communities that encourage long-term roots and lasting relationships… a mission that resonates deeply with community values.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
A look at the key benefits and facts demonstrates the core strengths of the projects:
- Projects designed for affordability: ensuring properties are provided at affordable below average rents while tackling the lack of affordable housing in Toronto.
- Sustainable, low-carbon constructions that meet high environmental standards, including upcoming projects that will be completely geothermal and voluntarily meet the Toronto Green Standards Tier 2.
- All developments are strategically located close to public transit, promoting walkable neighbourhoods where healthy living and neighbourly connectedness are inherently encouraged.
- Infill multi-unit rental properties that result from years of experience testing investment strategies.
- Current projects include notable addresses such as 1553-1557 Bloor Street West (Stabilized Asset) and 1144 Davenport Road (In the Works), ensuring both variety and quality.
Community Building and Sustainable Neighborhoods
The philosophy behind each development centers on creating happy and healthy communities. A transparent dialogue with tenants and neighbours builds lasting trust and creates an environment where concerns are openly addressed. This commitment shows in every phase of the project, from the careful design of multi-unit rental properties to the location decisions that favor accessible, walkable areas. It is an approach that not only enhances the quality of living but fosters a sense of belonging and community cohesion… keeping community voices at the forefront.
Affordable and Sustainable Urban Living
Sustainable development and affordable housing go hand in hand. These projects have been designed with the vision to not only address the immediate housing affordability crisis in Toronto but also to set a benchmark in environmentally friendly living. Properties are developed with meticulous consideration of both buyers’ and tenants’ lifestyles. Every detail matters, from the integration with public transit options to neighbourhood designs that encourage pedestrian-friendly habits and cultural vibrancy.
Development Expertise and Team Leadership
Leading the charge is James Burton, the President of Percy Ellis. With a B.Eng. obtained from Queens University in 2006 and subsequent experience in a leadership development role at Telus, James’ journey into real estate was marked by strategic investor capital raising and real estate acquisitions throughout Toronto. After leaving Telus in 2008 to pursue full-time development, his leadership has guided Percy Ellis through over forty successful projects. His expertise spans value acquisitions, project planning and financing, multi-unit rental design, urban and public realm design, creating community benefits, and navigating municipal approvals. His extensive background is a driving force behind every stage of development.
Project Impact on SDGs
- SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: The focus on affordable housing and walkable neighbourhoods supports the development of environmentally sustainable and liveable cities.
- SDG 13 – Climate Action: Emphasizing low-carbon construction and sustainable development practices aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change.
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Prioritizing tenant and neighbour health through designed spaces that inspire healthy living underscores the community’s commitment to wellbeing.
- SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy: The adoption of geothermal technology and other environmentally-friendly practices underscores a commitment to energy-efficient developments.
Connecting Communities and Future Prospects
Taking a closer look at the current projects offers a glimpse into a future where urban living is redefined in favor of happier, healthier communities. From assets such as 1553-1557 Bloor Street West and 1415 Gerrard Street East already stabilized or sold, to other promising developments like 8 De Grassi Street, 457 Queen Street, and 1144 Davenport Road in the works, each project contributes to the evolving narrative of Toronto’s urban landscape. This is more than just real estate development – it’s a conscious, community-centered endeavor that is reshaping urban life.
The development approach does not operate in isolation. Embedded within a broader vision of societal impact, each project resonates with the long-term goal of fostering neighborhoods where communication flows freely, where green standards are embraced, and where every resident feels a sense of pride and belonging. With clear commitments to responsibility, environmental care, and affordability, these initiatives signal that building better communities is not merely an ambition, but a tangible, actionable mission.
Located at 155 Logan Ave, Toronto, Percy Ellis welcomes community input and continues to champion open dialogue and transparent practices as the projects move forward. The dynamic blend of expertise, innovative approaches, and community focus ensures that as Toronto grows, it does so in a way that honors the values of shared spaces and connected living… a truly inspiring journey toward a better future.
