Toronto’s storied “Five Thieves” retail stretch along Yonge Street is about to evolve into something unprecedented, as developer Tricon Residential moves forward with a significant retail expansion behind the historic shops. Anchored by The James, a 23-storey luxury rental tower at 5 Scrivener Square, the project will introduce a curated retail experience, a striking public square, and a direct TTC connection, cementing the area as one of the most desirable urban destinations in Canada.
“We’ve designed a European-inspired retail mews integrated into a pedestrian-friendly square that will become a true gathering space for the community.” says Jeremy Hurwitz, Vice President of Retail at Tricon Residential.
A Vision Rooted in Heritage and Modern Design
The Scrivener Square area is no stranger to architectural significance. Its centerpiece, the former North Toronto railway station, was transformed into a spectacular LCBO flagship in 2003, preserving the station’s 140-foot clock tower and intricate stonework. This adaptive reuse project became a symbol of heritage integration in Toronto and set a precedent for future development in the area.
Tricon’s expansion builds on this tradition. The project, led by globally renowned Danish architects COBE, pairs contemporary design with the square’s historic character. The podium of The James features hand-laid brick, echoing the texture and scale of the original Shops of Summerhill, while the tower incorporates a striking lamella structure and modern glass elements.
“This isn’t just about creating retail space,” explains Hurwitz. “It’s about placemaking and curating a unique retail mix and public realm that draws people in and creates an amenity rich environment for our residents. Our landscape architect, Claude Cormier and Associates, envisioned a grapefruit water fountain as the centrepiece. It’s whimsical, beautiful, and unlike anything else in the city.”
Curated Retail and Dining Experience
The retail component of The James extends and enhances the beloved Five Thieves block, home to iconic tenants like Harvest Wagon, Olliffe Butcher Shop, Pisces Gourmet, and Terroni. These staples have served the Rosedale and Summerhill communities for decades, and the new development aims to complement and not replace their charm.
The project introduces a pedestrian-focused laneway lined with boutique retailers, wellness studios, and culinary concepts. Confirmed tenants include Mamakas, Gee Beauty, 6 By Gee Beauty, Nutbar, Dear Grain Bakery, Chocolat de Kat, and Bluboho, with negotiations underway for additional premium offerings in fashion, lifestyle, upscale quick-service and wellness.
The centre of this retail expansion is an open-air courtyard, framed by boutique storefronts and anchored by the now-famous grapefruit fountain. Renderings reveal a vibrant piazza animated with café seating, lush landscaping, and seasonal programming.
Tricon has gone further by introducing patio zones, hand-laid brick pathways, and flexible event spaces to support seasonal markets and community activations. The design’s emphasis on permeability ensures that Scrivener Square remains both a local hub and a destination for visitors exploring the Yonge corridor.
TTC Integration: A Game-Changer for Connectivity
One of the most innovative aspects of the development is its integration with the Summerhill subway station. A new entrance will emerge directly within the retail component, connecting the underground transit network with the piazza above.
This addition positions Scrivener Square as a model of transit-oriented development, aligning with Toronto’s goals for sustainable urban growth.
Rosedale’s Demographic Advantage
The project’s location in Rosedale-Summerhill, one of Canada’s wealthiest enclaves, provides a built-in customer base for premium retail. Within a one-kilometre radius, the average household income exceeds $300,000, and over 63% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. These demographics, combined with a high projected population increase in the area, signal strong market potential.
Further bolstering demand are 17 residential developments under construction within 1.5 kilometres, adding approximately 3,800 units to the local housing stock, alongside an additional 39 projects in pre-construction.
Retail Tenancy: Strengthening the Five Thieves Legacy
The Shops of Summerhill, colloquially known as the Five Thieves, have long been an anchor for specialty retail in Toronto. Names like Harvest Wagon and Pisces Gourmet are synonymous with quality, and the cluster attracts a loyal customer base.
The expanded tenant roster will include luxury food concepts, specialty retailers, and high-end wellness operators. Combined with the architectural ambition of the project, this approach positions Scrivener Square as a future benchmark for urban mixed-use design in Canada.
Construction of the retail spaces is progressing in tandem with The James residential tower. Retail units are scheduled for delivery in early 2026, with a grand opening planned for fall 2026. According to Hurwitz, leasing momentum is strong, with the project currently about 70% committed.
The James: Redefining Luxury Rental in Toronto
Above the retail component, The James introduces 127 light-filled private residences with sweeping panoramic views over the tree canopy of Toronto’s most celebrated neighbourhood.Designed for discerning downsizers, these residences average 1,600 square feet, with some spanning up to 4,000 square feet. Amenities include an outdoor infinity pool, saltwater lap pool, boutique fitness centre, spa facilities, and valet parking, all hallmarks of a five-star hotel.
Rental rates will reflect the exclusivity of the offering, making The James one of Toronto’s most premium rental properties upon completion.
A Decade in the Making
For Tricon Residential, the completion of Scrivener Square represents the culmination of a ten-year vision to create a mixed-use destination that celebrates heritage while embracing modern urban living. It also signals a broader trend in Toronto’s development landscape: the rise of experiential retail and placemaking as integral components of residential projects.
“From the architecture to the landscaping to the tenant mix, every detail has been curated with intention. We’re proud to deliver a project that enhances the neighbourhood and sets a new standard for mixed-use development in the city.”
