On the map: Buyers are “thinking three to four years ahead” 

The Elms project is being built on Elmway Court near Thornhill Woods Park.  Photo by Brightstone Development

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A summer launch for the Elms of Thornhill Woods seems well-considered. Each of the project’s 36 townhomes includes rear terraces and, at nearly 350 square feet, have room for a dining table, sectional seating, a firepit and a barbecue.  

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“Residents can spend the full day outside in their own private amenity space,” says Noah Shechtman, director of development at Brightstone, the firm behind the upcoming enclave between Dufferin and Bathurst streets just north of Highway 7.  

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Located on Elmway Court near Thornhill Woods Park, The Elms is set in an established Thornhill community known for parks, trails, schools and family-oriented residential streets, Shechtman says. “Location is a huge driver. I’m from Thornhill Woods, and I always knew this was going to be a hotspot.” 

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According to Shechtman, The Elms is being designed as a townhouse alternative for buyers seeking more space and privacy than a condo typically offers. Slated for construction this summer, the three- to five-bedroom towns include private garages and driveways, along with multi-level layouts that feature extended-height soft-close cabinetry, quartz countertops, hardwood flooring, zoned heating and cooling, smart-home technology and exterior gas lines for barbecues and firepits.  

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Early interest has come from two main buyer groups, Shechtman says. One is downsizers who want to remain in Thornhill Woods or move into the area. “They still want a terrace, a front door and separate-level living. Some want to stay within Thornhill Woods because their kids live in the area.” 

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The multi-level units will have extended-height cabinetry, quartz countertops, hardwood flooring, zoned heating and cooling, and smart-home technology. Photo by Brightstone Development

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The other is younger couples looking for a larger home that can accommodate future family needs. These younger buyers are responding to the combination of park access, schools, garage parking and additional bedrooms, Shechtman says. “They’re also thinking three or four years ahead for when they have kids. They’ll already have the extra bedrooms set up and won’t have to move again.” 

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The project is moving ahead during a slower period for pre-construction housing across the GTA. Brightstone’s decision to proceed, Shechtman says, was based partly on the pricing gap between older resale townhomes and new construction in Thornhill Woods. While the former cost around $1.1 million, The Elms is entering the market at $1,279,000, which he sees as a marginal increase for a brand-new home. 

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The design was shaped by the project’s location within an established residential community. Designed by Toronto architect Richard Wengle, the townhomes use a transitional architectural approach, including peaked rooflines and dormers, rather than a more overtly contemporary look.