1952. The year Elizabeth II was proclaimed Queen of England (and Canada), and when the CBC made its television debut. In Don Mills, something just as significant was underway, as wealthy businessman E. P. Taylor embarked on a mission to make Don Mills Canada’s first planned community. His goal was to create a community vision heavily influenced by the English Garden City model and designed around “green space” principles.

With its natural green undulation accented by the Don River, rolling hills and ravines, Don Mills was a perfect fit. Industry, commerce and roads were arranged to be accessible, yet insulated from residential areas. Serpentine streets ensured traffic moved at a relaxed pace, while pedestrian routes connected the various points of the neighbourhood.

REFLECTIONS Residences at Don Mills and the Shops at Don Mills actually rest on land originally intended for Taylor’s O’Keefe Brewing Company. Instead, an uncovered mall was built and the Don Mills Centre assumed an identity as the community’s favourite destination for shopping, dining and socializing. By 1965, the International Council of Shopping Centres (ICSC) recognized Don Mills Centre as one of the highest producing shopping centres in North America.

A perfect case study in history repeating itself is the renewal of the Don Mills Centre as an outdoor shopping location. This time, it is strengthened with a vibrant residential component and a focus on numerous year-round community events. This development will be an exciting new Don Mills community – one that is a reflection of the past and a reflection of the sense of community envisioned for tomorrow.