Articles from Storeys

This article provides an overview of significant real estate development proposals in Toronto from August, focusing on residential projects ranging from affordable housing to luxury condos. Key developments include high-rise condos at 2130 Lawrence Avenue East and a rental building at 50 Park Road, among others, highlighting a trend of intensification and urban redevelopment. These projects reflect a diverse architectural approach and involve applications for zoning and official plan amendments.

The article details recent personnel changes within Ontario’s real estate and development sector, highlighting promotions and new hires as of August 2025. Notable appointments include Heather Grey-Wolf as Chief Investment Officer at Infrastructure Ontario and Doug Rollins as the Executive Director of Toronto’s Housing Secretariat. In addition, several individuals have been promoted to significant positions across various companies in the industry. Royal LePage sees various leadership updates with Kelly McCain, David Piaia, and others taking on new roles.

Tonlu Properties has filed a development application to transform a two-storey commercial space into a mixed-use project with 39- and 36-storey towers near Glencairn Station in Toronto. The project plans to deliver 905 residential units, including condo and rental replacements, along with retail space. The design includes a brown brick podium, a dynamic glass exterior for the towers, and extensive amenity spaces. The development is part of an effort to intensify growth in transit-accessible areas.

Bosa Properties, in partnership with Chunghwa, has proposed a 40-storey residential tower in Burnaby, near Central Park. The project will contain 327 market rental units and 91 non-market units, including replacements for existing rental spaces. A unique rental unit transfer proposal seeks to adjust unit allocations among nearby projects, improving economics while maintaining overall unit commitments. If successful, the project will integrate transportation demand management strategies and is anticipated to proceed soon, following favorable city council discussions.

Kincora Farm in King Township is a five-acre estate designed for both luxurious country living and equestrian enthusiasts. The property features a renovated bungalow with upscale amenities like a chef’s kitchen and spa-like ensuite, plus additional spaces for guests. Equestrian facilities include a five-stall barn and indoor arena, while the grounds are enhanced by gardens and a pool area. This estate combines tranquility with versatile functionality, making it suitable for various uses, including car storage or private events.

A new 35-storey condo tower is proposed for a site in North York, Ontario, that has been eyed for development since the late 1990s. The land, located at 500 Sheppard Avenue East, is seeing its height more than double from a previously approved 16-storey plan to accommodate 331 condo units. Amenities include both indoor and outdoor spaces, and a Ravine Stewardship Plan is in place to maintain the ecological quality of the adjacent ravine. The proposal includes a unique design and is one of the tallest developments in the area.

Amacon is proposing the construction of two towers at 1745 W 8th Avenue in Vancouver, replacing a low-rise commercial building. The project will include a 28-storey and a 29-storey tower, providing a total of 528 residential units, of which 107 will be social housing. Rezoning from commercial to comprehensive development is sought to facilitate this project that aligns with Vancouver's Broadway plan for mixed-use development and community benefits.

Onni Group has submitted a formal rezoning application for a new development at 375 E 1st Avenue in Vancouver, adjacent to the Great Northern Way-Emily Carr SkyTrain Station. The proposal includes three 35-storey mixed-use towers and one 40-storey tower, featuring a mix of residential units, hotel rooms, office space, retail, and art production spaces. The project aims to integrate various uses around shared spaces like an internal atrium and a greenway, reflecting a transit-oriented development approach. Additionally, it incorporates cultural elements related to the region's Indigenous history, with input from Squamish Nation Hereditary Chief Ian Campbell.

The article discusses the growing interest in senior housing investment in Canada, driven by increasing demand as the population ages and a current supply-demand imbalance. Post-pandemic, occupancy rates in senior homes have rebounded, and operating costs have decreased. The anticipated 'silver tsunami' has led experts to term the period as a 'golden era' for senior housing investments, despite challenges such as high construction costs. Potential investors see opportunities as the existing senior housing infrastructure ages and requires redevelopment.

A development site owned by Zonix Group at the Toronto-Markham border is available for sale, approved for two high-rise residential towers of 40 and 44 storeys totaling 1,060 units. Located on Steeles Avenue East and Highland Park Boulevard, the site spans 2.3 acres, currently occupied by single-family homes slated for demolition. The development has Ontario Land Tribunal approval, with potential for an additional 23-storey rental tower. The area is well-serviced by transit and has a high-income, educated demographic, enhancing its appeal for residential projects.

The Government of British Columbia has announced a rent increase cap of 2.3% for 2026, tying it to inflation. This decision is meant to make housing more affordable while allowing landlords to maintain their properties. The cap, one of the lowest in decades, aims to protect tenants from unfair hikes amid economic uncertainty. The government also highlights other measures to support renters, such as a rental assistance program and interest-free loans for those facing financial difficulties.

The article discusses the potential of prefabricated housing in tackling Canada's housing crisis. Murtaza Haider, Executive Director of the University of Alberta’s Cities Institute, advocates for a shift to prefab and modular housing, which is being supported by the Canadian government through significant financial incentives. Big builders like Mattamy Homes are exploring innovative approaches like prefabrication to improve efficiency and scalability in construction. The success of these ventures depends on involvement from major industry players to set up the required infrastructure.