As a Toronto real estate professional specializing in the luxury market, I’m always observing trends and talking with buyers to understand what they’re looking for in a high-end home. The Toronto luxury real estate scene is as unique as the city itself, with preferences reflecting our local lifestyle, climate, and culture. From state-of-the-art amenities to elegant architectural designs, here’s an inside look at the top features today’s luxury buyers want in Toronto’s market.
Spacious, Open Floor Plans
Open floor plans have become the gold standard in luxury real estate, and it’s easy to see why. Luxury home buyers are looking for spaces that feel expansive yet seamlessly connected, with ample room for entertaining and family gatherings. Buyers want a layout that combines functionality with a sense of flow between rooms, particularly in the kitchen, dining, and living areas.
Many buyers I work with desire spaces that are adaptable, accommodating their needs whether they’re hosting a formal dinner or spending a relaxed evening with family. Open floor plans are perfect for enhancing this sense of flexibility, as they make it easy to rearrange furniture or add pieces without interrupting the room’s overall harmony.
Gourmet Kitchens Designed for Entertaining
The kitchen isn’t just for cooking; it’s also a space for socializing and impressing guests. In Toronto, luxury home buyers are looking for gourmet kitchens outfitted with top-tier appliances and stylish finishes. Features like oversized kitchen islands, wine refrigerators, and professional-grade ranges are highly sought after.
Buyers also love kitchens that emphasize both form and function, with ample storage and high-quality materials such as quartz countertops and custom cabinetry. To accommodate gatherings, many buyers are seeking kitchens with open layouts that flow into living spaces, perfect for hosting brunches, holiday dinners, and casual get-togethers. A stunning, spacious kitchen is a must-have for today’s luxury home buyer in Toronto.
Private Outdoor Spaces
One of the joys of owning a luxury property in Toronto is having your own private outdoor space—a real retreat in the middle of the city. In neighborhoods where larger lots are possible, buyers prioritize well-designed patios, landscaped gardens, or even an outdoor kitchen for entertaining during the warmer months. Rooftop terraces with sweeping views of the Toronto skyline are also incredibly desirable, especially for condos and townhomes.
In recent years, I’ve noticed that buyers are more interested in creating comfortable outdoor living spaces with features like heated decks, built-in fire pits, and covered seating areas. These additions extend the usability of outdoor areas well into fall and early spring. For those of us who brave Toronto winters, the appeal of a cozy, functional outdoor area is undeniable.
Home Offices and Flexible Spaces
Remote work has transformed what people want in a home, and this is especially true for luxury buyers. Today, buyers aren’t just looking for a designated office space—they want a home office that feels inspiring and motivating. High-end finishes, ample natural light, and ergonomic design are essential, along with soundproofing features for added privacy.
In addition to dedicated offices, buyers are also seeking flexible spaces that can serve as workout rooms, art studios, or even second offices if they’re sharing the home with a partner who also works from home. This versatility is key in luxury homes, as it allows homeowners to adapt their space according to their personal needs and routines.
Spa-Like Bathrooms and Wellness Features
Luxury home buyers today want their bathrooms to feel like a spa retreat. In Toronto, where winters can be long and cold, a warm, relaxing bathroom is especially appealing. Buyers are looking for features like heated floors, rainfall showers, and freestanding tubs that allow for a true wellness experience.
I’ve noticed a growing interest in wellness-focused amenities beyond the bathroom as well. Home gyms, saunas, steam rooms, and even indoor lap pools are becoming more popular in high-end Toronto homes. Luxury buyers see the value in having these amenities at home, particularly in today’s wellness-conscious world, where relaxation and health go hand-in-hand.
High-Tech and Energy-Efficient Features
Today’s luxury buyers are not only looking for style but also for the latest technology that makes their homes more convenient and energy-efficient. Smart home features—such as automated lighting, heating, and security systems—are in high demand. These systems can be controlled from smartphones or tablets, allowing homeowners to manage their home’s energy consumption, monitor security, and adjust settings from anywhere.
In addition, energy-efficient features like solar panels, triple-pane windows, and high-efficiency heating systems are attractive to buyers. Eco-consciousness is a growing trend in luxury real estate, and homeowners are keen to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising comfort. For luxury buyers in Toronto, a home that combines sophistication with sustainability is the ideal.
Proximity to Amenities and Cultural Hotspots
Finally, luxury buyers in Toronto are very mindful of location. Proximity to top-rated schools, vibrant cultural scenes, and world-class dining are essential. Areas like Yorkville, Rosedale, and Forest Hill remain popular for their access to upscale shopping, fine dining, and parks, which provide a balanced lifestyle between the bustling city and serene green spaces.
For buyers with children, proximity to reputable schools and recreational facilities is often a top priority. I frequently see buyers looking for homes that are both close to their workplaces in the city center and within walking distance of the amenities they value, like boutique stores, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
Final Thoughts
Toronto’s luxury real estate market is continuously evolving, shaped by trends in lifestyle, technology, and wellness. As a real estate agent in this dynamic market, I find it exciting to work with buyers and help them find properties that not only meet their needs but also reflect their lifestyle aspirations. A luxury home in Toronto is much more than a residence—it’s a blend of elegance, functionality, and personal comfort.
For buyers in the luxury market, understanding these key features can be invaluable in identifying the right property. And for those considering selling, aligning your home with these trends can enhance its appeal to prospective buyers. In a city as vibrant and diverse as Toronto, the luxury real estate landscape is an ever-changing journey, and I feel fortunate to be a part of it.