Seaton Group was founded by Jack Grant in the 1950s. Grant engaged architect Jerome Markson to design his early mid-century modern projects in Elliot Lake and Seneca heights in Woodbridge. Markson is now recognized as a Canadian architectural pioneer.
Grant had an affinity for smaller towns within commuting distance of Toronto. He chose towns that had charming main streets and rivers running through them, and built expansion that complimented and enhanced their unique charms.
Projects in the 1970s and 1980s included major expansions of the villages of Unionville, Woodbridge and Uxbridge. He never dreamt that the Toronto urban area would eventually engulf the former two.
Stewardship of the company was assumed by two of Jack's sons, Jeremy and Jordan in the 1990s. Major projects completed since the "boys" became involved include most of the Woodbridge projects and Uxbridge. Thistlewood, Rockwood Ridge and subsequent projects were initiated by the second generation.
In addition to the land development projects, Jack always had outside interests in both the business and social justice realms. That legacy continues today, with the group's diversified investments in operating businesses that involve preserving, protecting and adding value to land and our built heritage.
With provincial policy now encouraging intensification most of the company's newer developments are smaller infill projects rather than large-scale greenfields developments.
A professional planner, Jeremy's focus remains on development, whereas Jordan takes responsibility for the operating businesses. Both are deeply involved in the Alton Mill Arts Centre, by passion, not design.
Rockwood ridge was a 480-unit multi-phase expansion of the quaint village of Rockwood, Ontario. It maintained the small-town feel through houses with porches rather than garages dominating the streetscapes. Natural open spaces (including a forested ridge) were preserved, made visible from the streets and interconnected with walking trails. A variety of housing types were built from large bungalow and two-storey single detached home to a range of townhome designs.