Isabella, is a name steeped in medieval royal history, with Spanish, Italian and Hebrew origins. The name Isabella is the Latinate form of Isabel, which is a variation of the name Elizabeth, originally derived from the Hebrew name Elisheba. Spain, England, France, Portugal, and Hungary all had royal Isabellas in their courts. This medieval royal history inspired the travels of early descendants bringing mercantile trade to this region.
With eminence rooted in the name, a royal colour in Isabelline evolved. The rich, golden, praline cream colour was chosen to inspire elegance. The first recorded use of Isabella as the name of a colour in English was in the year 1600, to describe an item in Elizabeth I of England's wardrobe as "one rounde gowne of Isabella-colour satten ... set with silver spangles". This colour is also known as Palomino, Cremello or Perlino in horses, and these rare horses are known for their rich golden coats.
A Mercantile History
The Isabella will be nestled away on Dorset Street, within the historic region shared by the neighbourhoods between Albert, Princess & DuPont streets.
With a bustling mercantile history, centred around the origins of the once archetypal Victorian city hall, this area became the civic district for the Town of Waterloo.
In 1948, an electric-powered bus sits on the east side of King Street south of Erb Street amongst globe street lamps and classic early century automobiles which are a sign of the times.
And at the turn of the century in 1900, within the neighbourhood, a group of young men and women enjoy a wagon ride through Waterloo Park drawn by two beautiful white horses.
A Historic Neighbourhood
In 1931, members of the Waterloo Fire Department pose for a group portrait on Albert Street at Erb Street.
In 1910, the Princess Theatre, Waterloo’s first street level movie house, sits on the Devitt Block with the Dominion Express Company, M. Devitt and Company and the general store.
In 1920, a couple enjoys rowing on Silver Lake with a boat from the boathouse in Waterloo Park while a woman and child watch from the banks.
The Jewel of the City
The Isabella Residences will overlook Waterloo Park, which has been an essential part of the fabric of the community, an area rich in mercantile trade from Europe.
With views of Waterloo Park, walks, bike rides, and nature trails will take you back in time, passing The Carnegie Library, while winding your way to the restaurants, boutiques and shops of Uptown Waterloo.
Affectionately known as the Jewel of the City, the park and its centerpiece, Silver Lake, have become synonymous with Uptown Waterloo.
UpTown Loop
Waterloo Park
Victoria Park
Iron Horse trail
Bechtel Park & Trail
Spurline Trail
Experience the Arts & Culture
Enjoy an evening of fine dining before taking in a performance at a menonnite style masonry and timber architecture playhouse. Discover beautiful clay pieces and magnificent sculptures made by Canada’s finest artists. Theatrical performances & cultural centres combine a contrasting contemporary innovation district with a historic market district, creating a compelling abundance of different arts & cultural experiences within the region.
Waterloo Region Museum
Centre in the Square
Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery
Clay & Glass Art Gallery
St. Jacobs Country Playhouse
Paula White Diamond Art Gallery + Design Studio
Experience the Uptown
A short walk winding through the neighbourhood will pass academic institutions, libraries, and nature trails. Connect in the cafes, chat with the chefs of local cuisine, or catch up with friends at the craft breweries.
Stroll through the parks, visit the art galleries and relax in the spas. Take the train for the night out at the theatre, take in a lecture at the Perimeter Institute, or take the day off for a round of golf.
Wander through the Uptown Waterloo Shops & Bauer marketplace. Discover the unique gifts, intricate jewelry, fashion and fine dining within the district and spend time winding down with family and friends..
& Fine Dining
Take a stroll back in time and indulge in the wines & culinary cuisine of the mediterranian within the 150 year old historical Seagram’s building. Cozy up into a warm red brick bistro for chef inspired farm to table delicacies with seasonal fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers.
Red House
Swine and Vine
The Bauer Kitchen
Solé Restaurant & Wine Bar
Loloan Lobby Bar
Janet Lynn’s Bistro
Walk the Shops
With the Shops of Uptown Waterloo just blocks away, a short walk will also take you to the Bauer Marketplace within Allen, King and Caroline streets. Discover the custom tailored clothing and unique one of a kind styles fitted to you courtesy of Mark Nunes. A little further, and the tailored clothiers will serve you in the magnificently restored train station within the refined space designed by its namesake Paul Puncher.
Paul Puncher Men’s Clothier
Erban Corner
Loft 106
Alexandria´s Shoes for Woman
Channer’s Seasons
Grey Silo Golf Course
Rebel Creek Golf Club
Deer Ridge Golf Club
Westmount Golf & Country Club
Whistle Bear Golf Club
Richard Wengle
An accomplished architect with a career spanning over four decades, Richard has been shaping the architectural landscape since 1983. With a profound passion for design and a keen eye for detail, he has dedicated his professional journey to creating structures that stand as timeless works of art. Richard draws inspiration from the classic allure of stone and the inviting warmth that emanates from well-crafted buildings. His commitment to blending form and function is evident in every project he undertakes, showcasing a harmonious balance between architectural brilliance and practicality. Currently embarking on The Isabella Residences project, Richard finds inspiration in the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of New York City, aiming to infuse the spirit of the city into his latest creation set to stand the test of time here in Uptown Waterloo.
Inspirational Architecture
The Beaux Arts style is classical in nature with Greek and Roman forms inspired by teachings in the 17th century École de Beaux Arts. The era of “fine arts” reflected the wealth and affluence accumulated during the Industrial Revolution. While steeped in the principles of French neoclassicism, the style incorporates both Gothic and Renaissance elements and uses modern materials, such as iron and glass, within its design.
Beaux Arts was an important style in France until the end of the 19th century, popularized in North America beginning in the late 18th century and early 19th century. Many prominent American architects who studied at the École des Beaux-Arts, influenced buildings abroad. While the style was popular in Europe across many buildings, it became the default style of architecture for banks and train stations in North America.
"Architecture, of all the arts, is the one which acts the most slowly, but the most surely, on the soul."
-Ernest Dimnet
Juliet Balconies & Terrace Gardens
The heavy stone buildings of historical times featured balconies for the practical reasons of bringing in sunlight and fresh air. Juliet balconies are named after the young woman courted and romanced by Romeo while on her balcony in Shakespeare’s tragic love story.
The balconies were a sign of the times made popular by the falling price of iron, along with the monarchy of George IV and his extraordinary spending and liberating lifestyle. Elaborate iron designs became a fashionable architectural feature in Europe during his rule within the early 18th century to denote grandeur, sophistication and extravagance.
In the early 19th century Britain’s Regency Era also became a period well known for romanticism, glamour and high fashion. The Juliet balcony became the delicate, intricate, exterior decor element desired within architectural design and buildings across the United Kingdom during this time and are still adored for their elegance.
The most famous balcony in the world is the Casa di Giulietta Capuleti in Verona, Italy. The House of Juliet Capulet was historically the rightful property of the Dal Capello family, commonly known as the Cappelletti. The namesake is believed by many to be the storied family depicted by playwright William Shakespeare in Romeo & Juliet.
Isabelline Inspiration
The arches in the promenande are inspired by the doors and arches adorning some of the most magnificent castles in Europe. The Isabelline style creates the elegant features cascading across the walkways.
The catholic monarchs of Spain were also known as their ruling King & Queens. The first of the monarchy’s royalty was established with the 1469 marriage of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, leading to the unification of Spain. With the Reconquista in 1492 establishing the Spanish national identity, imperial Spain began to create grand monuments and buildings to symbolize their newly consolidated nation.
With monuments built at the command of the Queen in the Isabelline style, Italianate decorative elements were combined with Iberian traditional elements and gothic embellishments. Gothic elements are highlighted by pinnacles, pointed arches and flying buttresses. In the early 1500’s, the Isabelline decorative style evolved, and Spanish architecture began to be influenced in form and structure by renaissance ideas.
The Royal Chapel of Granada, in Spanish known as The Capilla Real de Granada, is an Isabelline style building located in the heart of Granada, Spain.
Timeless Elegance
The building's design draws inspiration from the timeless elegance of arches and promenades, seamlessly integrating these classical elements into its modern structure. At the base, grand arches create a welcoming entrance, their curves echoing historical architecture while providing a sense of openness and grandeur.
This harmonious blend of classic architectural features and promenades not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes social interaction and connectivity, making the building a landmark of both beauty and function.
Luxury Balconies
Experience the dual charm of our luxury balcony, in a serene retreat that transforms with the changing light. During the day, bask in the warm sunlight as you enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline or lush greenery, with the gentle breeze enhancing your sense of tranquility. The balcony, adorned with elegant furnishings and vibrant planters, is the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon read.
As night falls, the balcony takes on a new persona, illuminated by soft, ambient lighting creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The city lights twinkle in the distance, providing a stunning backdrop for an evening of relaxation or a cozy dinner under the stars. Whether it's day or night, our luxury balcony offers a timeless space to unwind and savor life's finest moments.
Alison Habermehl
As founder of the Habermehl Design Group, Alison finds harmony between the practical demands of space and the emotional desires of her client. A graduate of New York Institute of Art and Design, formerly known as the Sheffield School of Interior Design, she combines a finely honed aesthetic and detailed knowledge of construction and materials. Alison has been mentored by celebrated designer Vicente Wolf of NYC. She is Internationally recognized by House and Home TV, HGTV, Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Vanity Fair, T Magazine, Veranda, Dwell, DXV and Azure and founder of #DesigningBack.
A Grand Entrance Awaits
The grand entrance exudes sophistication and opulence, immediately captivating visitors with its meticulously crafted details. From the moment you step foot in the foyer, you will be greeted by the rich textures of premium materials and the subtle sophistication of thoughtfully curated decor.
The expansive lobby will have a glass mosaic that spans the ceiling. Every element within the lobby has been thoughtfully curated to reflect elegance and grandeur. The meticulous attention to detail ensures every aspect of the entrance and lobby brings a sense of timeless luxury, creating a sanctuary feeling like home from the very first glance.
Living in Luxury
Transitioning into the expansive living area, you’ll find a versatile space that caters to both relaxation and entertainment. Thoughtfully arranged seating areas provide ample room for gatherings, while the sophisticated decor enhances the sense of luxury.
The kitchen is often regarded as the heart of every home. Your kitchen will be the central masterpiece of design and functionality, offering an array of options for custom finishes to allow you to personalize your culinary space. From high end appliances to elegant cabinetry, every element can be tailored to your taste, ensuring a seamless blend of style and convenience.
A Private Place to Unwind
Indulge in the ultimate retreat within our custom designed bedroom, where elegance meets comfort. This sanctuary features a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
The elegant bathroom radiates luxury and sophistication, featuring ample space for dual sinks and vanities that allow for seamless morning routines. Custom finishes add a touch of personalized charm, from intricately designed fixtures to tailored cabinetry that blends form with function. The option to include a stand alone tub as the centrepiece of this stunning space provides the perfect location for unwinding after a long day.
Discover unparalleled luxury and elegance in our exclusive building, where every gathering space has been thoughtfully designed to cater to your social and hosting needs. Our exquisite dining room, with its own private catering kitchen, provides the perfect setting for intimate dinners or grand celebrations, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.
Meanwhile, the sophisticated private entertainment lounge, with its bespoke furnishings and ambient lighting, serves as an ideal spot for unwinding with friends or networking over craft cocktails. These custom designed areas are not just places to gather, but destinations in themselves, promising to elevate your lifestyle and make every event a memorable occasion. Embrace the allure of a luxury condominium offering exceptional hosting experiences.
Conference in Comfort
Our refined conference room redefines the standard for professional meeting spaces. Equipped with interactive technology and elegant furnishings, it provides an ideal environment for productive discussions and high level presentations.
Step into our exclusive owner's lounge, a haven of sophistication and charm with a refined whisky lounge ambiance. With its moody lighting and plush, sumptuous furnishings, this intimate space invites you to unwind and indulge in evening conversations and hosting.
Mindful Living
Discover the art of mindful living in our yoga room and fitness spaces, where every detail is designed to inspire serenity and self care. From the smooth texture of the wooden floors to the soft glow of ambient lighting, every element beckons you to unwind and centre yourself.
Whether you are practicing yoga, pilates or revitalizing your fitness routine, this calm space will offer a refuge from the chaos of daily life. Find your balance and embrace your movement rituals in a private space designed to centre and energize you.
"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."
-Leonardo da Vinci
Residential Suites
We invite you to explore the exquisite suites offered in the Isabella, where every detail has been crafted to perfection. From the moment you step inside, you will be captivated by the harmonious blend of elegant design, cutting-edge amenities, and breathtaking views. Each suite is a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication, thoughtfully curated to cater to your every need. Join us on a jour ney through these extravagant spaces, and discover the ultimate in upscale living.
Penthouse Collection Podium Collection
Isabella’s Islay
Changes may happen without notice. Tile patterns may vary. Window dimensions and placement may differ. Actual usable floor space may vary from stated area. Mechanical bulkheads, such as those for kitchen and bathroom systems, are not detailed. Balcony sizes and positions vary by floor. Furniture shown is for illustration purposes only and not included in the sale. Suites are sold unfurnished. Errors and omissions excepted (E.&O.E.)
ENSUITE
PRIMARY BEDRO OM
KITCHEN & DINING
SUITE L02-03
LIVING ROOM
LAUDRY CL.
Ascot Suite
Podium Collection
The tradition and passion for racehorsing in local entrepreneur Joseph Seagram has historical roots in the Berkshire region. Europe is home to one of the most famous horse racing events in the world held annually at the Ascot racecourse for thoroughbred horse racing which is only twenty five miles west of London. Nestled a few miles away is the home of the official residences of the British royalty in the Windsor Castle, which historically is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. The Royal Meeting, held in June each year, remains the highlight of the British summer social calendar. The design of the Ascot Suite will be inspired by the Berkshire region for its blend of equestrian tradition, historical prominence and luxury.
PRIMARY ENSUITE
BEDROOM
PRIMARY BEDROOM
FOYER WALK-IN CLOSET
ENSUITE
RO OM LAUNDRY RO OM MECH.
RO OM
Berkshire Suite
Podium Collection
A historic and ceremonial county located in the South East of England, Berkshire is often referred to as the Royal County of Berkshire. Berkshire is a region rich in history, culture, and economic vitality and is situated to the west of London, bordered by Oxfordshire to the north, Buckinghamshire to the northeast, Greater London to the east, Surrey to the southeast, Hampshire to the south, and Wiltshire to the west.
With the rolling hills of North Wessex Downs and scenic landscape, the region brings historical significance combined with modern industry similar to Waterloo Region, becoming home and hub to many European technology companies. The natural beauty intertwined with both heritage and modern industry, makes it a unique and important part of England. The design of the Berkshire Suite will blend contemporary elements with the tradition of history intertwining together in a unique and creative way into a style of elegance and grandeur.
Ruby Alexandra Suite
Podium Collection
The ruby is one of five cardinal gemstones, along with sapphire, emerald, amethyst & diamond. Traditionally considered precious above all others, historically the value of the cardinal gems was determined by ceremonial or religious use and rarity. A traditional gem with its name evolving from the latin origins of ‘ruber’ for its colour chromium element, the ruby is known for the richness of colour, durability and longevity. In 1973, the Queen of England commissioned the Burmese ruby tiara from Garrard to be created. The tiara was set with 96 rubies gifted to the Queen by the people of Burma as a wedding present and she adorned the ruby tiara at a royal gala on May 30, 1977.
Alexandra is the feminine form of Alexander, a Greek name first used in the 4th century BC popularized by Alexander the Great and his mother Olympias, who were both known together for their strength and leadership as defenders of humankind and the people. The Ruby Alexandra will be a suite embodying the richness of the ruby gemstone in luxurious finishings and details adorned by royalty, with the ruby representing queens and Alexander the Great, as one of the Macedonian kings who named the city of Alexandria in Egypt.
PRIMARY ENSUITE DINING ROOM
x 26'-7"
x 18'-4"
LIVING ROOM BEDROOM
x 14'-0"
x 14'-9"
PRIMARY BEDROOM
x 16'-5"
Springbank Suites
Podium Collection
Once the whisky business was up and running, Joseph Seagram turned more of his attention to his passion for horse racing, establishing a 200-acre stud farm in 1888 on Bridgeport Road. The stables featured indoor and outdoor racetracks for one hundred horses in training. Springbank was the name of one of his horses and he imported yearlings, stallions and mares in foal from England. Seagram horses won fifteen Queen's and King's Plates in Canada's most prestigious races.
With his passion for whisky and horses becoming renowned, in 1903 a New York journalist wrote, “Do you know Joseph Seagram? If you do not, this is the way to find him. Go out to the race track on any fine day and pick out the man who looks like King Edward VII. You cannot make any mistake. Only one man on all the tracks looks like His Majesty and that man is Seagram.” With the intertwining of the entrepreneur with whisky craftsmanship, an equestrian lifestyle and a regal presence, this inspiration will be infused into the creation of a luxurious suite suitable for a king or queen.
x 16'-5"
x 17'-11"
Bonniefield Suites
Podium Collection
With his unparalleled passion for horseracing, Joseph E. Seagram hired John Walker as his first horse trainer. This was the moment when the Waterloo, Ontario stable began a domination of the Canadian racing scene in the 1890s. His most notable achievement was winning the Queen’s Plate a record six years in a row, beginning with the horse Victorious in 1891, followed by O’Donohue, Martello, Joe Miller, Bonniefield and Millbrook.
While the Queen's Plate titles were compiling, a mystery surrounding the origins and naming of Seagram's “V.O.” evolved. Family tradition stated the "V.O." stood for "Very Own," with others claiming the initials meaning was "Very Old" for its blend of very old Canadian Whiskies. It seems it may be both by definition, as Joseph's son Thomas had the distillery's blender William Hortop prepare a whisky blend for his personal use to celebrate his upcoming marriage in 1913 to Dorothy Pearson. Upon tasting the special blend, Joseph insisted the family blend be put on the market and it went on to become one of Seagram's biggest sellers. With the same attention and care in creating the most famous whisky blend, this suite will be defined by an artisanal craft within its extravagant interior design.
Dalmore Suite
Penthouse
Collection
In 1839, the Dalmore distillery was founded by Alexander Matheson, a merchant adventurer determined to create an exceptional single malt whisky. The name Dalmore translated means “big meadowland” and the distillery's regal legacy dates back to 1263. The emblem was bestowed upon Colin of Kintail, the first chieftain of Clan Mackenzie, after he saved the life of King Alexander III of Scotland from the fury of a charging stag. In 1867, descendants of Clan Mackenzie took control of the distillery and one of their first changes was to adorn every bottle of The Dalmore with the stag.
The quality of the single malt is characterized by the dark fruity aromas, which are created by the generous use of carefully crafted Sherry casks in the maturation of the Highland Whisky. In the same way this single malt whiskey encapsulates pioneer craftsmanship under the experience of Dalmore whisky makers, this suite will be designed with the expertise of trade craftsmen and interior designers taking care in the exquisite details of its luxury finishes, woodwork and fine tapestries. Within the same spirit of time and attention to detail in the wooden casks and the artistry of the finished malt, the suite will be a masterpiece of craftsmanship and artistry.
x 21'-6"
BALCONY
O’Donohue Suites
Penthouse Collection
The Isabella Residences is nestled into a mercantile neighbourhood steeped in history and nearby one of oldest hotels in Waterloo Region. Historically, J. E. Seagram and Son’s distillery was by the Huether Hotel which had a cold cellar in the basement bootleggers reportedly used in the times of prohibition to meet the demands for local whisky. The underground tunnel, filled in by city workers in the 1960s, led across the street to the Waterloo Garage at the corner of King and Princess streets. A young farmhand during Prohibition shared Seagram's whisky used to arrive at his father's farmhouse at Amherstburg, Ontario, in the trunks of Reo Speed Wagons and "Whisky Six" Studebakers.
The whisky was whisked away to Detroit and loaded into boats in nearby canals to be shipped across the river and over the border. The local Waterloo businessman operating the distillery became the cornerstone of the most famous Canadian whisky in history in Seagram’s V.O. This spirited entrepreneurialism will inspire the luxury finishes of the suite ensuring an unparalleled attention to detail in all of its intricate finishes and interior design.
x 17'-5"
BUTLER´S PANTRY
Macallan Suite
Penthouse
Collection
Founded in 1824 by Alexander Reid, a barley farmer and school teacher, the Macallan was one of the first distilleries in Scotland. The Macallan’s origins can be traced back to 1824 when the original facility which was little more than a farmer’s barn was built on the banks of the River Spey in Scotland. With hard work and determination the family business quickly grew. The original name of the area was “Maghellan” from the Gaelic word “magh” meaning fertile ground and “Ellan” from the Monk St.Fillan residing in a church on The Macallan Estate until 1400.
A suite named for a home worthy of the spirit of the single malt whisky it embodies, its design is influenced by Spain, North American and Scotland, with its natural raw materials, traditional design and craftsmanship. Custom interior design, luxury finishes and refined cabinetry will have the same care to detailing in the millwork as taken to create the oak casks for which The Macallan is world renowned.
Emerald Isle Suite
Penthouse Collection
A land of lush, green landscape which resembles the vibrant color of the emerald gemstone, the "Emerald Isle" is used to describe Ireland. The natural beauty of the landscape has become synonymous with the country's identity. In a testament to the greenery of its beautiful countryside, and as a result of its favourable climate and fertile soil, this enchanting country became the origins of an evocative nickname for a whisky of the same name.
The Emerald Isle collection of whisky has a unique heritage rich in Irish tradition and mythology. Known for its distinctive flavours, this ultra rare whisky is casked in unique legacy bottles. It is little known Ireland invented whisky in the 14th century and dominated the sector for centuries until an unfortunate fall due to both world wars, embargoes and their fight for independence. Irish whisky is being restored to its former glory as the world’s most iconic whisky. The craftsmanship of the whisky distillers living on this lush land have made The Emerald Isle the oldest and rarest triple distilled single malt in existence. In the essence of this rare whisky, this distinguished suite will have all of the finest detailing, beautiful tapestries, rich textures and lushness of the land for which it is named in the crafting of its unique interior design.
Isabella’s Islay Suite
Penthouse Collection
A suite designed in the spirit of the old world craft of the artisanals, the Isabella’s Islay expresses the freedom to create custom artistic designs and the desire to work with beautiful materials. Historians believe Islay is where the single malts whiskey distillation first took place in Scotland. As one of the southernmost of the Inner Hebridean Islands located off the west coast of Scotland on the Island of Islay, (/ˈaɪlə/ EYE-lə) or Ìle in Gaelic, the craft was imported from Ireland in the 13th century.
In the spirit of craftsmanship, the hand bottled single malt scotch whiskey is famous for its handmade English crystal decanter with white gold, which is a work of art covered with over 5,000 diamonds nestled within a hand carved wooden case. Within the suite design, the elements of the finest trade mastery and knowledge will combine to form a delicate yet timeless kinship in a home which will be a testament to the history of the Islay region. Isabella’s Islay is a place which creates a beautiful, velvety, intricate malt which is uplifting with its smoothness and textures. The custom suite design will satisfy luxury in the same way, without being imperious, providing a perceived lightness with a prodigious balance.
Bedrooms: 2 + Den
Bathrooms: 3 Full + 2 Powder
Interior : 3,957 sf.
Exterior 850 sf.
Total: 4,807 sf.
PRIMARY ENSUITE DRESSING TERRACE PRIMARY BEDROOM
"Luxury is in each detail."
-Hubert De Givenchy
The Isabella Residences 28 Dorset Street Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3L5
