Did you know Don Mills was once farmland? Imagine 20 farms where now stand homes and shops. Don Mills a mixed-use neighbourhood in Toronto boasts a fascinating history. Developed in the 1950s and 60s it was envisioned as a self-sufficient new town. It was planned by private enterprise outside Toronto proper in North York. This forward-thinking plan influenced suburban development across Canada.
E P Taylor an industrialist initially planned a brewery. He later abandoned that idea to build a whole new town. The 2000 acres he acquired became Yorktown then Don Mills. The name Don Mills reflects the Don River and the many mills along its length. The river provided transport and power for these mills.
The design of Don Mills was revolutionary. It incorporated five key principles rarely seen in Canada. The neighbourhood principle created four quadrants each with a school a church and a park. Pedestrian and vehicle traffic were separated. Winding roads and cul-de-sacs slowed traffic. Modernist architecture and aesthetics were promoted. A greenbelt linked neighbourhood parks preserving ravines. Industry was integrated into the community. This ensured Don Mills wouldn’t become just a bedroom community.
Home design was innovative. Square lots with long street frontages replaced the traditional rectangular lots. Houses faced the street with their long sides resulting in shorter backyards. The developers also influenced highway projects. Highway 401 lacks an interchange at Don Mills Road due to the development. The Don Valley Parkway was rerouted to better serve the community.
Don Mills Centre a key part of the original plan was later demolished. It made way for the Shops at Don Mills a large modern shopping centre. A significant cultural project was built near the Don Valley Parkway. The Aga Khan Museum opened in 2014 showcasing Islamic art and history. It is a stunning addition to the area.
Don Mills continues to thrive. It is a vibrant community with diverse ethnic groups. It combines residential commercial and industrial spaces. Its innovative planning principles continue to inspire. Don Mills remains a testament to thoughtful urban planning.