Remodelled historical factory studios in the heart of Leslieville
Inspiring ideas in timeless spaces
History
One of the most notable addresses in Leslieville, 401Logan was designed in 1907 by Architect James Layrock Havill for the Smart Bag Company of Montreal which then merged with Woods Manufacturing in 1918, to become one of the largest producers of fiber products in Canada.
At the time, Leslieville was quickly industrializing and many other manufacturing plants opened on Carlaw and Logan Avenues in part due to easy access to the Grand Trunk Railway line and the Port Lands which linked Toronto to the Port of Montreal and Atlantic trade routes. Woods’ canvas goods and sleeping bags have been used in important historic events such as polar explorations (1903), the first passing of the Northwest Passage (1906), the first conquest of the South Pole (1911), and arctic expeditions (1913). During the world wars, Woods made products vital to Canada’s war efforts, including tents, sleeping bags, hammocks, and summer uniforms.
Today
Over the last decades, the former factory building’s original heritage façade and features have been restored, while the interior space remodeled to offer unique lofts that inspire the creative mind! The soaring ceilings, large windows, and open unobstructed spaces with exposed heritage brick and care for sustainability all create a fantastic work environment. The commercial studios provide flexibility and inspire each tenant to create a place that is unique to their business model needs, and are home to over fifty artists and enterprises, including high-tech production studios, art & design offices, galleries, and retail showrooms.
Managed by G&N Developments Inc.
Established in 2005, G&N Developments Inc. is a real estate development & management company in Toronto that believes in making a transformative impact in our local community, and beyond. We specialize in retrofit projects to revitalize old buildings by repurposing and renovating them to create commercial/industrial studios for the city’s creatives and entrepreneurs. Our core values are based on three pillars: sustainability, placemaking for the creative sector, and fostering our community.
G&N Developments understands that investing to lower our impact on the environment is investing in our communal future. Our goal has been to design and develop ‘building envelopes’ that are environmentally efficient to minimize operating costs and our carbon footprint. Our spaces are designed to inspire new ideas and collaboration, allowing businesses and creatives to push the boundaries of their expertise. We believe in helping foster strong, diverse, and inclusive communities – both within our building and in our neighbourhood.