A decade after an intense four-alarm blaze ravaged an Etobicoke warehouse, a visionary project proposes a new chapter for the long-vacant site near Islington Avenue and Lake Shore Boulevard. This transformation, however, comes with a significant trade-off—the demolition of the Sidh Shakti Babaji Mandir temple, an important community building.
The proposed 26-storey condominium tower at 99 Birmingham Street, once home to the Wei Fung Fruit Co., showcases a Jenga block-inspired design. This unique concept, developed by a numbered Ontario corporation and crafted by Icon Architects, is set to redefine the New Toronto neighbourhood with its bold departure from traditional architecture.
Innovative Design in a Historic Locale
The condo's design is a striking juxtaposition of a six-storey base and stacked, alternating four-storey volumes, creating a dynamic push-pull effect. While it may not be a contender for international design awards, this structure undeniably breaks away from the architectural norms of the area. It will tower over its low-rise surroundings, doubling the height of the area's existing and proposed buildings. This scale leap is partly justified by the planned Waterfront LRT, anticipated to significantly increase local densities.
A Focus on Residential Space and Community Revitalization
The condo will primarily dedicate its approximately 23,200 square-meter area to residential use, offering 352 units, which will include:
- 54 studio units
- 201 one-bedroom units
- 58 two-bedroom units
- 39 three-bedroom unit
This design choice caters to the investor market, indicating a strategic approach to urban living. While the project’s height and massing may stir local debate, especially with the loss of the Sidh Shakti Babaji Mandir temple, it promises to reinvigorate an area still recovering from the 2013 fire.
Balancing Commercial and Residential Needs
Addressing the local retail gap, the development includes six commercial units totaling 1,000 square meters on the ground floor. This blend of retail and residential spaces aims to animate the stretch, offering both convenience and community engagement. However, this development will also impact local traffic, with a proposed four-level underground parking garage accommodating 147 cars, a notable consideration in car-reliant Etobicoke.
Sustainability and Accessibility at the Forefront
BlogTo reports that the design emphasizes pedestrian and cyclist accessibility, aligning with the upcoming Waterfront LRT. It includes 265 bicycle parking spaces and is conveniently located just 235 meters from the 501 streetcar route along Lake Shore. This approach prioritizes sustainable transport options, aligning with Toronto's broader environmental goals.
A Comprehensive Living Experience
The Taheri Development Inc. project doesn't just offer housing; Residents will enjoy 704 sq. m of indoor amenity space and 786.5 sq. m of outdoor amenity space. The second floor will feature a 128.2 sq. m amenity area along the north face of the building. Meanwhile, the seventh floor will offer 583.4 sq. m of indoor amenity space near the centre of the building. According to plans, this will connect with a 786.5 sq. m outdoor amenity area on the rooftop of the base of the building.
Addressing Community Concerns
Despite its many benefits, the project has raised concerns, primarily due to the planned demolition of the Sidh Shakti Babaji Mandir temple. This decision reflects the current trend towards smart density creation but has not been without controversy. The development aims to balance these concerns with its contribution to the local skyline and the introduction of new green spaces, including 10 street trees and community-oriented spaces.
A Forward-Thinking Approach to Urban Development
The project, while ambitious, is not just about constructing a building; it's about creating a new focal point in the New Toronto neighbourhood. With an emphasis on reducing vehicle dependence, the development aligns with broader initiatives to mitigate congestion and promote sustainable living.
Ensuring Compatibility with the Surrounding Area
The proposed development is designed to harmoniously integrate with the surrounding employment areas. It aims to enhance, rather than disrupt, the existing transportation network and the viability of the area for continued employment uses. The addition of attractive paving, benches, and a retail spill-out area fronting Islington Avenue contributes to the project's goal of community engagement and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion: A Vision for Toronto’s New Horizon
The proposed development at 210 Islington Avenue and 99 Birmingham Street represents a significant step in Toronto's urban evolution. Balancing modern design with community needs, it promises to transform an underutilized site into a vibrant, sustainable, and integrated part of the city's fabric. While the loss of the Sidh Shakti Babaji Mandir temple is a poignant reminder of the cost of progress, the project's focus on smart density and community revitalization offers a glimpse into the future of urban living in Toronto.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 210 Islington Avenue Mixed Use Development South Etobicoke - Toronto (0034120823)
