Articles from Urban Toronto

A 46-storey mixed-use tower is proposed at 1151 Weston Road, near Mount Dennis station in Toronto. Developers Republic Developments and Silver Hotel Group plan to incorporate a heritage-listed Scotiabank building into a four-storey podium for the residential tower, which will include 512 units and retail space. The development aims to benefit from proximity to the upcoming Eglinton Line 5 and other transit connections. The project includes sustainable features such as a three-level underground garage with EV charging capabilities.

Engineering firms in Toronto are adapting to the city's new era of building complexity marked by affordability issues, decarbonization goals, and intricate development needs. BPA, an engineering firm, has expanded its services to offer comprehensive mechanical, electrical, structural, and sustainability solutions, reflecting a shift from discipline-focused operations to integrated approaches. Their work on projects like Etobicoke Civic Centre and CIBC Square highlights their focus on sustainable design practices, aiming for certifications like LEED and WELL. BPA continues to tackle complex building requirements in Toronto, embracing strategies for low-carbon design.

The University of Toronto has redesigned its previously controversial 90 Queen's Park development, scaling the project back to a six-storey building with a reduction of about 60% of its original space. This decision follows significant community resistance to the previous design, which critics considered too large and incongruous with its surroundings. The new design features a more compact building with a triangulated facade that integrates better with neighboring structures like the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). Construction preparation is set to begin in July 2025, with no announced completion date yet.

Work is progressing on the glass block cladding of KING Toronto, a primarily residential multi-use building designed by Bjarke Ingels Group. The project, a joint venture between Westbank Corp and Allied Properties REIT, involves slow-paced cladding installation due to the complex delivery of glass blocks and window panels. The building's 16-storey massing features a distinctive, undulating design, and the application of cladding is advancing across various elevations. Upon completion, KING Toronto will offer 440 condominium units.

In Toronto's Entertainment District, the 73-storey Forma East Tower has reached its 10th floor, with construction continuing on Gehry Partners' design led by Great Gulf, Dream Unlimited, and Westdale Properties. Meanwhile, a revised application seeks to change the 84-storey West Tower by increasing its residential Gross Floor Area and converting floors initially intended for offices into residential spaces, increasing the residential unit count. The application includes a reduction in non-residential space and parking provisions, aligning with downtown housing goals.

Luiza Investments has proposed a high-density mixed-use development at 1600 Brimley Road in Toronto, involving the construction of five buildings up to 42 storeys. The project will replace an industrial and commercial site and includes residential units, retail space, a public park, and a POPS. The development is designed by Arcadis and includes a proposal for the construction of a two-level underground parking garage and extensive bicycle parking. The area is set to benefit from improved transit connections due to the subway extension and planned bus routes.

The construction of Cielo Condos by Collecdev-Markee Developments is progressing as the sixth floor takes shape in Toronto's Annex neighborhood. Designed by KPMB Architects, the 34-storey residential building is integrating heritage stonework from the Bloor Street United Church into its design. The project features a mix of concrete, steel, and preserved elements, with completion planned to bring 349 residential suites to the area. The structure also includes links to nearby cultural sites such as the Keskus Estonian Cultural Centre and the George C. Pidgeon House.