The Vibe

This established residential neighbourhood is a quiet enclave where expansive lawns provide a setback for lovely homes on tree-lined streets. A “time stands still” vibe where midcentury modern homes dot Lincolnshire Boulevard and surrounding side streets means homeowners avoid the cookie-cutter feel of many Mississauga neighbourhoods. Known more for its gorgeous parkland than its dining or nightlife, this is a family-centric neighbourhood that feels safe and serene. However, anyone with a penchant for outdoor activities, even if that just means nursing a Sunday morning hangover walking your fur baby along the waterfront, will still find this conveniently located lakefront area a contender thanks to its proximity to hip areas like Port Credit’s Lakeshore Road.

The Story

Orchard Heights is located in the southeastern corner of Mississauga, south of the QEW where the Etobicoke Creek separates Mississauga from Toronto. Bordered by Dundas Street East to the north, Dixie Road to the west, Lake Ontario to the south, and the creek to the east, it was originally a prime parcel of land before it was purchased for development. Until developers discovered the area, the farmland and orchards in the 19th and early 20th centuries were dominated by cash crops such as apples that helped drive the local economy.

Built in the 1950s during the "Saracini era,” archive images show a lineup out the front door of the first Orchard Heights model home in 1954. Dante Albert Saracini was a Toronto builder/developer who designed the small section of suburban homes. Although a product of the post-WWII housing boom, Saracini's subdivisions took a different approach to the common home designs of the time, opting for a collection of layouts and architecture to avoid what we view today as typical “cookie-cutter" homes. The eight templates offered a distinct look, combining a mix of exterior finishes popular in the late 50s, including stone, siding, and brick. Saracini's midcentury custom exteriors ensured that no two designs stood side by side, creating his trademark one-of-a-kind neighbourhoods. A mix of bungalows and 1.5 story homes also featured custom-made kitchen cabinets built at Saracini Construction's plant as a major feature of the homes' distinct, modern interiors.

The classic midcentury modern area managed to maintain its original charm for over 60 years. However, as more home buyers seek out large lots in existing neighbourhoods for custom builds, these little gems are becoming prospective "knockdowns," threatening to change the character of the iconic neighbourhood.

The Convenience

An easy drive along the QEW makes Orchard Heights the ideal mini Toronto commute for work or pleasure. Mississauga’s MiWay connects to the Long Branch GO Station, where you can also catch the TTC 501 Queen streetcar or the Dixie Transitway Station to hop on the 109 Express to Kipling Station.

Expansive parklands along Lake Ontario include Lakefront Promenade Park and extensive trails at Etobicoke Creek Park. Boat lovers are minutes from Lakefront Promenade Marina and Port Credit Yacht Club, while golf enthusiasts can play a round at the Herbert Strong-designed Lakeview Golf Course, where the expansive rolling greens and cool lake breezes add to your 18-hole experience. The exclusive Toronto Golf Club, one of the oldest golf clubs in North America, has stood the test of time, including a move to its current Harry Colt-designed course.
Shopping is a pleasure at the Dixie Value Mall and Sherway Gardens, with a good mix of high-end retailers and family-friendly options. The trendy restaurants, bars, and cafés of Port Credit are an easy drive if you don’t want to go into the city.

The Residents

Orchard Heights attracts a good mix of demographics, including families with young kids, retirees, and young couples. Interestingly, over 50% of Orchard Heights' residents moved to the area over 20 years ago and never left, creating a very close-knit community. The Homeowners' Association is known for its tireless protection of the green, midcentury modern character of the neighbourhood and creating an inclusive place where everyone feels welcome.

The Best Part

Those sweet little midcentury modern Saracini-era beauties with expansive setbacks on streets shaded by mature trees are the type of time capsule stuff that takes you back to simpler times.

The Worst Part

Unfortunately, the charm of the original midcentury homes is at risk of being overtaken by “McMansions” on the highly desirable ginormous lots.

The Real Estate

Fully detached single-family bungalows and 1.5 story homes are the main attraction in Orchard Heights, where unheard-of lot sizes run as deep as 100 plus feet. Fully detached, larger two-story homes are becoming more common as younger homeowners buy up the smaller homes on large lots for custom builds.

The Schools

Orchard Heights boasts several highly ranked GTA schools, including St. Paul Secondary School, known for its strong Fraser Institute scores, International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and specialized Health and Wellness programs. Elementary schools include St. Edmund Separate School, with strong EQAO reading, writing, and math test scores; and Allan A Martin Senior Public School, with above-average EQAO scores.

Elementary

• Queen of Heaven
  • Grades JK to 8
  • 1198 Alexandra Avenue
• St Edmund
  • Grades JK to 8
  • 1250 Melton Drive
• Alan A Martin Senior PS
  • Grades 6-8
  • 1390 Ogden Ave
• Janet I McDougald PS
  • Grades JK to 5
  • 98 Hartsdale Ave

Secondary

• Cawthra Park
  • Grades 9 to 12
  • 1305 Cawthra Rd
• St Paul
  • Grades 9 to 12
  • 815 Atwater Ave
• Lorne Park
  • Grades 9 to 12
  • 1324 Lorne Park Rd.

Private

• Star Academy
  • Grades JK to 6
  • 675 Royal York Rd.
• Mentor College 
  • Grades JK tp 12
  • 40 Forest Ave.
• Toronto French School 
  • Grades PK-7
  • 1293 Meredith Ave.