Metropolitan Essex

1 - About Metropolitan Essex

• Address: 296 Jarvis St & 298 Jarvis St, Toronto
• Neighbourhood: Church-Yonge Corridor
• Storeys: 17
• Units: 124
• Built Year: 1991
• Builder: Polygrand Developments
• Building Type: High-Rise Condo
• Suite Sizes: 557 sqft - 1456 sqft
• Average Price: $614 / sq. ft.

2 - Overview of Metropolitan Essex

Metropolitan Essex represents a unique blend of historical preservation and modern residential development. The building incorporates the historic 1931 Frontenac Arms hotel within a 17-storey structure completed in 1991.

The architectural design showcases a white brick base complemented by a white concrete and glass facade. Located at the prominent corner of Jarvis and Carlton Streets, the building sits atop a two-storey commercial podium.

A distinctive feature is the enclosed pedestrian bridge connecting the residential tower to the adjacent Ramada Plaza Hotel, providing residents with access to hotel amenities and services.

3 - Suite Sizes & Value

Metropolitan Essex offers diverse living spaces with floor plans ranging from 557 square feet to 1,456 square feet. Available configurations include one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and two-bedroom plus den layouts.

With an Average Price: $614 / sq. ft., the building provides an accessible entry point into Toronto's downtown core market.

Residences feature well-designed enclave kitchens and floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light. Corner units offer particularly attractive views of Allan Gardens. Flooring options include both hardwood and tile finishes throughout the suites.

4 - Building Amenities & Features

Residents enjoy exceptional amenities through the connected Ramada Plaza Hotel, accessible via the pedestrian bridge:

• Full-sized indoor swimming pool
• Sauna facilities
• Fitness centre and gym
• Squash courts
• 24/7 concierge and security services
• Property management by T.S.E. Management Services Inc.

5 - Location Highlights

• Green Space: Positioned directly across from Allan Gardens Park
• Transit: Carlton Streetcar service at the building entrance with convenient walking distance to Yonge Street TTC Subway Station
• Education: Close proximity to Toronto Metropolitan University and both University of Toronto campuses
• Healthcare: Near Toronto's "Hospital Row," including Toronto General, Mount Sinai, and St. Michael's Hospital
• Shopping: Ten-minute walk to the Eaton Centre and Bloor Street shopping districts
• Convenience: Adjacent grocery stores and retail establishments

6 - Lifestyle Near Metropolitan Essex

The Church-Yonge Corridor offers exceptional urban living with a remarkable 98/100 walk score. This high-density neighbourhood combines Victorian-era architecture with contemporary high-rise developments, creating a dynamic streetscape.

Residents benefit from proximity to major employment centres and cultural attractions. The area's perfect 100/100 transit score ensures seamless connectivity throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Allan Gardens provides valuable green space for outdoor recreation, while the surrounding arterial streets feature diverse dining establishments and retail options that cater to urban professionals.

7 - About the Developer

Polygrand Developments Inc. was a Hong Kong-based development company that entered the Toronto real estate market in 1988. The firm specialized in creating innovative projects that combined hotel services with residential condominium living.

Following financial difficulties, Polygrand filed for bankruptcy in 1997 and ceased operations in the Toronto market. Metropolitan Essex remains the company's sole residential development in the city, representing their unique approach to mixed-use hospitality and residential integration.