Discover Weston: A Neighbourhood on the Rise
HOME is thrilled to be part of the infrastructure development happening in the Weston neighbourhood of Toronto. With its historical roots, ample public transportation, and a growing cultural scene, we are sure that Weston is becoming the neighbourhood that every investor and renter is watching. We thought it would be a good idea to give you a sense of all of the urban renewal that is happening in the area and share why we are so excited about it.
The village of Weston in the 1963, looking west along Lawrence Ave. at Weston Rd.
Dating back to the 1790s, Weston was a small settlement known simply as “The Humber”. Weston’s first settlers were mill owners who were attracted to this area by its rich timber resources and the water-power potential of the Humber River. In 1856 the Grand Trunk Railway began to service the area, followed shortly by the Toronto Grey and Bruce Railway in 1869. The presence of the railway, and the business it brought in, brought Weston affluence and notoriety. Weston was first incorporated as a village in 1881 and then as a town in 1915. Weston remained an independent town until 1967 when it amalgamated with the former Borough of York, and in 1998 when it was absorbed into the City of Toronto. Today the Humber River and the Grand Trunk Railway remain defining landmarks in Weston that ooze charm and heritage.
Weston has come very far since the 1790s, especially when it comes to transportation. Found at Weston Road south of Lawrence, the GO Station is conveniently located to help commuters reach a destination beyond Toronto’s borders. In addition, the UP Express was launched in 2015 to connect downtown residents from Union Station, Bloor Street, and Weston to Toronto Pearson International Airport in 15 minutes. The train is incredibly modern, with free Wi-Fi, up-to-the-minute flight information, charging stations for all devices, and plenty of storage space for commuters. North America’s first dedicated air-rail link, offering a 25-minute journey from end to end, departing in snow or shine with no traffic gridlock, makes this an incredible advantage for those who live in the Weston neighborhood. With these modern amenities, in addition to access for the Bloor-Danforth TTC Line and the much anticipated Eglinton Crosstown Connector, it has never been easier to get around in Toronto with Weston as your base.
The neighbourhoods cultural hub, Artscape Weston Commons, opened in 2019 to provide “a vibrant, inviting gathering place for people to come together to create, learn, experience local art, performance, and cultural programs and events and celebrate community.”. As Artscape chief operating officer LoriAnn Girvan told toronto.com, “We think Weston is a model, a catalyst and inspiration for how we should be building in our city. We’re so excited about this project. I think Weston is a bell-ringer for really good urban development.”. In addition to Artscape, several locally owned businesses have chosen to call Weston their home. Black Cat Espresso Bar and the new El Almacén Café have both chosen to open their second locations in Weston due to the area's rich arts and culture scene. Along with many others, these businesses are drawn to the young families and community vibes that are continually growing throughout Weston.
Despite the changing landscape of Weston, there is still a multitude of parks, bike paths, walkways, and even the Weston Golf and Country Club. The largest park in the area, Lions Park, overlooks the Humber River and includes four tennis courts, two baseball diamonds, two swimming pools, a children’s playground, a prime tobogganing hill, and a snack bar. Avid bike riders and nature seekers frequent Weston for its scenic river views, old-world charm, and community atmosphere. With a shrinking number of green spaces in the city, Westons’ commitment to outdoor accessibility sets it apart.
Coliving in Weston makes perfect sense. Catering to those who seek more than what is typically available in the city, Home @ William Street provides community access to nature and public transportation, an easy commute, and the chance to become part of the revitalization of one of Toronto’s most historic neighbourhoods. The development happening in Weston is moving fast, and HOME is pleased to be brining more coliving spaces to the area soon. This historic area of Toronto is clearly on the rise, and HOME is delighted to be a part of the next chapter of Weston’s history.
