Toronto's Port Lands is on the brink of a significant transformation with the proposal for a mixed-use development at 115 Saulter Street South. Spearheaded by Castlepoint Numa and designed by COBE Architects, this ambitious project will feature dual high-rise residential towers and state-of-the-art production studio spaces.
Here’s an in-depth look at the project, focusing on the construction and design details that matter most to workers in the construction field.
Project Overview
Key Details
- Location: 115 Saulter Street South, Port Lands, Toronto
- Developer: Castlepoint Numa
- Architect: COBE Architects
- Scope: Mixed-use development with residential units, retail spaces, and production studios
- Total Area: 79,060m² (Residential: 73,650m², Non-residential: 5,410m²)
- Residential Units: 1,300 new units
Construction Phases and Key Features
Site Preparation and Foundation Work
While the project does not explicitly mention demolition, it involves clearing the existing warehouse on site. This will likely require demolition and excavation work, laying the groundwork for the new structures. This phase will necessitate skilled labor for demolition, excavation, and laying a solid foundation to support the high-rise towers.
Superstructure Construction
Urban Toronto reports that the project will feature two towers, one reaching 40 stories (125 meters) and the other 45 stories (140 meters), both rising from a shared seven-story podium. Erecting these structures will involve extensive steel and concrete work, with a focus on high-rise construction techniques. Construction workers will engage in tasks such as assembling steel frameworks, pouring concrete for floors and walls, and installing major building systems.
Production Studio Spaces
A unique aspect of this project is the 3,330m² dedicated to Production, Interactive, and Creative (PIC) uses. These spaces will serve as flexible "black box" studios to support Toronto's booming film industry. Building these studios will require expertise in creating acoustically optimized environments, advanced lighting setups, and versatile interior layouts.
Retail and Community Spaces
The development will also incorporate 2,080m² of street-level retail space within the podium. These areas will be designed to engage the community, providing amenities and services to residents and visitors alike. Construction workers will focus on creating inviting, accessible retail environments with high-quality finishes.
Parking and Bicycle Facilities
Parking provisions include a two-level underground garage with 175 spaces for residents, 15 for visitors, and 26 for the PIC uses. Additionally, the development will feature extensive bicycle parking facilities, with 1,170 long-term and 286 short-term spaces. Building these facilities will involve complex underground construction, ensuring safety and accessibility.
Design Features
Architectural Design
Designed by COBE Architects, the buildings will have a modern aesthetic, characterized by sleek lines and large glass surfaces. The seven-story podium will unify the towers, providing a base that houses retail and community spaces. The design aims to create a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, and creative spaces, fostering a vibrant urban environment.
Economic and Community Impact
Job Creation
The construction of this development is expected to create numerous jobs, providing significant economic benefits. From initial site preparation to final interior finishes, the project will require a diverse workforce, including general laborers, skilled tradespeople, project managers, and specialized technicians.
Long-Term Benefits
Beyond immediate job creation, the project will contribute to the long-term revitalization of the Port Lands. The new residential units will help address housing shortages, while the retail and production spaces will stimulate economic activity and community engagement.
The mixed-use development at 115 Saulter Street South represents a significant opportunity for construction workers in Toronto. With its blend of residential units, retail spaces, and production studios, the project promises to transform the Port Lands into a vibrant urban hub.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 115 Saulter Street South Mixed Use Development Central Waterfront - Toronto (0030052424)
