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.

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.

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 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.

Yorkreal Holdings Inc. has revised its proposal for a development at 1910 Eglinton Avenue East in Scarborough, increasing the height from 35 to 40 storeys. The development will include 387 residential units, retail, and office space. Situated along Scarborough's Golden Mile, the project is strategically positioned near transit options, including the soon-to-open Eglinton Crosstown LRT line. The plan features enhanced amenity spaces and parking provisions compared to the initial proposal.

A new 37-storey rental building is proposed for the South Eglinton-Davisville neighborhood in Toronto, alongside an existing 29-storey apartment building. The new construction aims to provide 400 rental units and will feature a five-storey podium and 32-storey tower, designed by CORE Architects. The development plan includes both indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, and is situated near transit options to maximize accessibility. If approved, this project would efficiently utilize the site, offering much-needed housing in the area.

The article discusses a report from RBC highlighting a significant drop in housing starts in Ontario despite national increases, with only 62,700 starts in July, a 24% decrease from the previous year. This downturn threatens to worsen Ontario's housing affordability crisis and disrupt the provincial government's goal to build 1.5 million homes over 10 years. High development costs and a slowdown in pre-construction condo investor interest are significant barriers. Without addressing these challenges, Ontario's housing pipeline may experience a severe shortfall by 2026, potentially exacerbating existing supply gaps.

Mark Kenney, CEO of Canadian Apartment Properties REIT, argues against the narrative that the 'financialization of housing' is a major cause of Canada's housing crisis. He suggests Canada's housing issue is due to a lack of investment and development, compounded by a misguided perception of foreign investors. Kenney highlights the necessity for more private sector involvement to address housing supply and affordability issues. He also criticizes the government for an inadequate approach to social housing.

AC Development has revised its proposal for a project at 635 Sheppard Avenue East and 1 Greenbriar Road in Toronto, increasing the building height from 12 to 30 storeys. The new plan includes 351 residential units with a total of 241,291 sq. ft of gross floor area and features an undulating facade design. Amenities and parking spaces have been planned to serve the high-density housing's diverse community needs. This development is part of a broader trend of increased building activity in the transit-connected area along the Sheppard subway line.