Hines, the global real estate investment firm, has signed a 38,000-square-foot lease with Equinox at West House, an under-construction rental development in Toronto’s King West district. The new Equinox fitness club, set to open later this year, will be the brand’s third Toronto location, joining its popular clubs in the Financial District and Yorkville.
Pre-leasing for West House’s suites will begin in March 2025, with the property slated for completion in spring 2025.
A Strategic Move for Equinox in Toronto
The addition of Equinox to West House reflects the fitness brand’s strategic growth in Toronto, where it has established itself as a leader in luxury wellness. King West’s vibrant mix of residential, commercial, and cultural spaces makes it an ideal location for the brand’s next venture.
Jeff Weinhaus, Chief Development Officer at Equinox, highlighted the alignment between Equinox and King West: “The opening of a third Equinox club in Toronto highlights the strong demand for high-performance luxury experiences within our Canadian community. We’re excited to partner with Hines to expand our portfolio at this exceptional location.”
The King West neighbourhood, known for its live-work-play appeal, offers a great environment for Equinox’s upscale fitness and lifestyle concept.
CBRE’s Urban Retail Team negotiated the Equinox lease on behalf of the landlord. Chris Wanzel of Urban Reform Realty represented Equinox in the deal.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Facility
The new Equinox gym at West House will feature a state-of-the-art facility designed to elevate the luxury fitness experience. The club will include four dedicated studios: a Main Studio, Yoga and Barre Studio, Cycling Studio, and Pilates Studio, catering to a variety of fitness disciplines. Members can enjoy premium locker rooms equipped with contrast therapy amenities, including a steam room, dry sauna, and cold-water shower.
Additional highlights include a spa with three treatment rooms, a café and retail shop, and a spacious members’ lounge located on the ground floor. Designed by acclaimed local design studio Nivek Remas, the club will reflect a sophisticated and modern aesthetic, perfectly aligning with Equinox’s high-performance wellness ethos.
Equinox’s Canadian Expansion Timeline
Equinox began its Canadian journey in November of 2012, with the opening of its first location in Toronto’s Financial District at Commerce Court West on Bay Street. This marked the luxury fitness brand’s initial foray into Canada, bringing its signature blend of high-performance fitness and wellness to downtown professionals.
Building on this success, Equinox expanded into Toronto’s upscale Yorkville neighbourhood, unveiling its second Canadian club at Yorkville Village 55 Avenue Road in March 2016. Later that year, Equinox extended its footprint across the country with the launch of its first Vancouver location at 1131 West Georgia Street (formerly the Trump Tower), opening its doors in November 2016.
West House: Setting a New Standard for Upscale Rental Living
West House, located at 88 Bathurst Street, has been designed by internationally acclaimed Danish architecture firm 3XN. The development includes 307 upscale rental suites ranging from studios to three-bedroom units and penthouses.
Syl Apps, Senior Managing Director and Head of U.S. Midwest and Canada at Hines, emphasized the project’s commitment to providing an elevated living experience: “West House will meet the demand for best-in-class rental housing in Toronto by delivering an exceptional experience for our residents. With Equinox recognized globally as a leader in fitness and lifestyle enhancement, their partnership brings an unmatched amenity to our residents.”
The building will feature a range of premium amenities, including:
- A rooftop retreat with 360-degree city and lake views.
- A 25,000-square-foot club floor with a resort-inspired fitness centre, outdoor exercise areas, and a high-resolution sports simulator.
- Co-working spaces equipped with meeting rooms and focus zones.
- Lifestyle services such as pet concierge, private chefs, wellness coaching, and home/car cleaning services.
- An interior design collaboration with CB2 to offer sophisticated living spaces.
A Focus on Sustainability and Community
Hines has incorporated sustainability as a core element of West House. The property will feature energy-efficient windows, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and reserved bike storage, aligning with Toronto’s push for greener urban developments.
The building also includes 38,000 square feet of additional retail and commercial space, designed to complement the neighbourhood’s dynamic urban fabric.
Exclusive Access for Residents at Equinox
Residents at West House will enjoy exclusive privileges and programming at the new Equinox club, elevating their living experience. Equinox’s holistic approach to wellness includes signature fitness classes, personal coaching, spa services, and curated lifestyle offerings, making it a sought-after amenity for high-performance living.
Pre-Leasing for West House to Begin in March 2025
Hines will begin pre-leasing units at West House in March 2025, ahead of the development’s spring opening. With its luxurious offerings and the highly anticipated Equinox fitness club, the project is expected to generate significant interest among renters looking for best-in-class accommodations.
About Hines
Hines is a leading global real estate investment manager, with $93 billion in assets under management as of mid-2024. The company has a presence in 31 countries and continues to shape urban environments through innovative developments.
About Equinox
Founded in 1991, Equinox is a global leader in luxury fitness and lifestyle. The brand operates over 100 locations in major cities worldwide, offering high-performance fitness services in bespoke luxury environments.
