The Jarvis Mansions

About The Jarvis Mansions

• Address: 539 Jarvis St, Toronto
• Neighbourhood: North St. James Town, Downtown Toronto
• Storeys: 4
• Units: 34
• Built Year: 2009
• Builder: ELM Developments
• Building Type: Low-rise mansion conversion
• Suite Sizes: 453 sqft – 1,800 sqft
• Average Price: $937 / sq. ft.

Overview of The Jarvis Mansions

The Jarvis Mansions is a heritage conversion of a late-19th century Victorian estate built between 1885 and 1889. The site was previously occupied by the Mara family, then became the Victoria Daycare Centre. In 2009, ELM Developments converted the property into 34 townhouse-style units.

The original sloped window frames and multi-level rooflines were maintained at the building's perimeter. Structural modifications were made to bring the building up to code while preserving the original Victorian appearance.

Interiors are modern, featuring open-concept layouts and 9-foot ceilings.

Suite Sizes & Value

Units range from 453 sqft to 1,800 square feet, consisting primarily of one- and two-bedroom townhouse-style layouts. Many units feature multi-level designs, which differ from the single-floor layouts typical of most high-rises.

Priced at an average of $937 / sq. ft., this reflects the rarity of low-rise heritage conversions in the downtown core, offering a lower-density alternative to the high-rises in the surrounding North St. James Town neighbourhood.

Building Amenities & Features

• Operational Structure: No gym or concierge services to minimize maintenance fees and maximize living space for residents
• Parking: Underground parking with elevator access to ground floor
• Outdoor Spaces: South-facing balconies, ground-floor gardens, or private rooftop terraces

Principal rooms feature 9-foot ceilings and stained hardwood flooring. Kitchens and bathrooms include updated cabinetry with modern finishes.

Location Highlights

• Cawthra Square: Public park directly across the street
• Historic District: Located in the Jarvis Mansion District near The Keg Mansion and the childhood home of Vincent and Raymond Massey
• Dining: The Peartree Restaurant and Smith restaurant in the coveted neighbourhood
• Nightlife: Access to the Church Street corridor entertainment district
• Culture and Transit: St. James Town Library and proximity to Yonge Street corridor with art galleries

Lifestyle Near The Jarvis Mansions

Life at 539 Jarvis St offers a residential setting that balances proximity to downtown amenities with a quieter atmosphere compared to the busier Yonge and Church Street corridors. Residents of this building appreciate the intimate scale of 34 total units while maintaining convenient access to downtown and transit options. The location appeals to buyers seeking a more private residential experience within walking distance of urban conveniences.

About the Developer

ELM Developments is a real estate development company specializing in heritage building conversions. The developer focuses on retrofitting historic properties to meet modern building codes while preserving original architectural character. Their projects typically feature higher ceiling heights and private outdoor spaces, creating a blend of modern functionality and vintage design elements.