The Annex

The Annex is situated just steps from the University of Toronto's main campus. This area is a vibrant blend of successful professionals, prominent artists, and university students and faculty. Its proximity to the university makes it a desirable location for students, who reside in numerous fraternity, sorority, and student houses nestled within large historic Victorian homes. This mix of residents infuses the Annex with new life and energy, continuously evolving its character. The presence of younger residents has also cultivated a lively nightlife, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and restaurants primarily concentrated along Bloor Street.

History

During the 1870s and 1880s, the City of Toronto began subdividing much of the Greater Toronto Area. In 1887, the area now known as the Annex was designated as "the Toronto Annex," swiftly becoming one of the city's most elite neighborhoods. Many prominent professionals, government officials, and local celebrities chose to call the Annex home, turning it into an exclusive postal code. The Annex retained its status as the "it" neighborhood until the early 1900s when the upper class began migrating north to newer, more fashionable areas like Forest Hill and Lawrence Park. Despite this shift, many residents stayed and formed the Annex Residents Association, a powerful group dedicated to preserving the neighborhood's historic roots. In the 1960s, they successfully lobbied against the proposed Spadina Expressway, which would have divided the area. The Annex's resilience has ensured it remains a desirable location for Torontonians to this day.

    • North: Dupont Street

    • East: Avenue Road

    • South: Bloor Street W

    • West: Bathurst Street

  • Houses in the Annex were originally built between 1880 and 1910, showcasing primarily Victorian, Queen Anne, and Richardsonian Romanesque architectural styles. These grand houses are easily recognizable by their pyramidal roofs, turrets, large attics, and grand archways. Many feature expansive wrap-around wooden porches and are often built from rich red brick. After 1910, the architectural style of new structures shifted slightly. While these properties were less grand and less ornate, they still commanded a significant presence. From the 1910s to the 1930s, English Cottage, Georgian, and Tudor-style houses became prevalent. Today, over 500 buildings in the Annex are protected by Toronto's historical board, which limits the abilities of developers and preserves the neighborhood's historic character. Strolling down some of the Annex’s most picturesque streets, such as Admiral Road, Madison Avenue, and Howland Avenue, reveals the stunning Victorian and Georgian architecture the neighborhood is known for.

    • K-6

      • Palmerston Avenue Junior Public School

      • Cottingham Junior Public School

    • K-8

      • Jesse Ketchum Junior and Senior Public School

      • Essex Junior and Senior Public School

      • Holy Rosary Catholic School

      • St. Bruno - St. Raymond Catholic School

    • Grade 9-12

      • Harbord Collegiate Institute

      • Jarvis Collegiate Institute

  • The Annex has been home to many notable figures. One of its most famous residents was renowned Canadian author, Margaret Atwood, who lived there during the 1960s and 1970s. Other notable residents include David Suzuki, Catherine O’Hara, Meghan Markle, and former Prime Minister, WIlliam Lyon Mackenzie.

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