Condo Pro: Room Service, Anyone?

By Barbara Lawlor

Room service is certainly one of the utmost pleasures in life, and it’s not just for hotel guests anymore. Nowadays, those who have the means can own a sumptuous condominium residence atop a 5-Star hotel and tap into this luxury on a daily basis. And in Toronto, condo shoppers will find this opportunity in exquisite locations. Talk about the height of luxury! In addition to spacious suites that live like low-rise homes, these residences offer access to incredible hotel amenities and comprehensive services, from housekeeping to dog-walking.

The more I travel internationally, the more I realize that in Toronto, we are setting new world standards when it comes to the luxury market. Cities like New York, Las Vegas and Chicago are home to fabulous condos, but to achieve the level of standard appointments Toronto buyers enjoy, they pretty much have to upgrade. When you look at Toronto compared to other major markets, we truly cater to the luxury seeker.

In fact, across the GTA, our developers make it easy for luxury-seekers to create their dream condominium suites, with sophisticated layouts and appointments. Many offer extensive customization opportunities, and the choice of features and finishes is astounding. There are rich hardwoods, marbles and granites, outstanding European kitchen cabinetry styles, phenomenal wine coolers and special pasta taps … I mean, this really is the ultimate in creating the home that is just perfect. 

It’s amazing how many penthouses and condominium suites in Toronto begin in price from a million dollars and go up from there! Who is buying them? In many cases, ultra-wealthy purchasers moving from large estate homes. They want more convenience and less space, but they expect to  indulge in the same level of quality they are used to, and they want the ability to entertain and relax in style. There are also elite business people who travel to Toronto a lot. They welcome the opportunity to own a gorgeous home while enjoying the personalized service they expect from their favourite hotel. At The Residences at The Ritz Carlton Toronto, we found that most of the buyers stay at Ritz Carlton hotels when they travel the world because they simply love the brand.  They all choose to live in a home in the sky where they can look out over the city and/or lake and enjoy views that make them feel like they’re on top of the world.

Living in the same building as a hotel also means that the lobby is, in essence, part of your home. This is the spot that offers an immediate sense of place and serves as the gorgeous base for the ever-important concierge. Being greeted by this professional, who is basically there to pamper you, is absolutely wonderful. He or she will provide numerous services from booking theatre tickets, to taking deliveries, arranging for cars to be washed, calling taxis or limos to the airport, delivering flowers or groceries to your suite, and more.

As for the suites situated over 5-Star hotels, the layouts are so spacious that owners can host a private party catered by the hotel restaurant. For large gatherings, residents can book a gala party. The appeal of upscale condominium amenities extends to opulent spas, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, glorious swimming pools, inviting saunas, business centres, technologically advanced theatres … the possibilities are endless. Many of these upscale residences have their own exclusive amenities as well. And when suite owners have overnight guests, there’s an entire hotel below to accommodate them!

Anyone who travels first class understands the appeal of 5-Star hotel services and amenities. By living in an ultra-luxury condominium above one of these fabulous hotels, this feeling can be yours year round. And whatever your preference, Toronto has a lot to offer. You really can find the height of luxury right here at home!

Barbara Lawlor is president of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com