When Hullmark made its first investment on Ossington Avenue in 2014, it was a street of hidden gems: a vintage shop, a hip dive bar, a few noteworthy eateries, but little to distinguish it from other West End streets. Today, Ossington is a destination in its own right, ranked 14th on Time Out’s list of the 33 coolest streets in the world in 2022.

Over the past decade, Hullmark has grown its portfolio to 17 properties, totaling more than 112,000 square feet. The approach has always been guided by long-term stewardship: consolidating ownership, curating tenants, and reinvesting in buildings and public spaces to preserve the street’s character while enhancing its vibrancy.

Walking the avenue today, the eclectic mix of retail, cafés, studios, and pop-ups reflects this deliberate strategy. Investments like the four-storey 12 Ossington, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects, and the revitalized 46–54 Ossington rowhouses demonstrate a commitment to human-scale development that respects the street’s heritage while introducing new energy. Sand-cast brick, metal windows with patina, and expressive arches preserve the neighbourhood’s character while signaling its future growth.

“We want our projects to feel like they belong here, while still offering something interesting for the wider community.”

- Jeff Hull, President & CEO, Hullmark

Hullmark’s influence extends beyond architecture. Public art installations, seasonal pop-ups, and curated retail create moments of interaction and discovery, turning the avenue into a corridor of culture, creativity, and commerce. Projects like Emotophone invite visitors to engage with one another and explore local businesses, blurring the lines between art, commerce, and community.

This philosophy has helped support a diverse mix of businesses - Studio Feather, Shop Lost & Found, Animals TV, SIZE?, Melanie Auld Jewelry, Monos, Sunday Furniture, Formula Fig, and Dear Grain Bakery - allowing them to thrive in spaces that feel authentic and timeless.

By focusing on long-term stewardship and active engagement, Hullmark has helped Ossington flourish as a destination for entrepreneurs, creatives, and locals alike. This strategy balances financial returns with cultural investment, proving that thoughtful urban development can generate both economic and social value. As Ossington continues to evolve, Hullmark remains a consistent presence, shaping a street that is as lively, layered, and enduring as the city itself.