Amid the rapid development along Toronto's soon-to-open Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT, a new proposal has emerged that could bring significant changes to Oakwood Village. The latest project, designed by Kirkor Architects Planners for Shelborne Capital, envisions a 39-storey mixed-use tower at 1711 through 1741 Eglinton Avenue West. This blog will explore the detailed construction and design aspects of this ambitious development, focusing on the elements most relevant to workers in the construction field.
Project Overview
Location: 1711-1741 Eglinton Avenue West, Oakwood Village, Toronto
Developers: Shelborne Capital
Architect: Kirkor Architects Planners
Project Size: 26,140m² Gross Floor Area
Height: 39 storeys (134.35m)
Residential Units: 423 units, including 8 replacement rental units
Retail and Community Space: 321m² at street level
Itemized Breakdown of Project Features
1. Demolition and Site Preparation
- Details: The project will commence with the demolition of the existing two-story mixed-use building, which currently houses eight commercial units on the ground floor and eight rental residential units above. Surface parking on the site will also be removed. This initial phase will clear the way for the construction of the new 39-storey tower.
2. Podium and Tower Design
- Podium Details: The design includes a four-storey podium that steps down to a single-storey adjacent to the Toronto Public Library to the west. This design choice ensures a smooth transition between the new high-rise structure and the existing lower-rise buildings in the neighborhood.
- Tower Details: Rising above the podium, the 39-storey tower will house 423 residential units. The tower’s height and design aim to maximize the use of space while integrating with the surrounding urban fabric. The Gross Floor Area of approximately 26,140m² results in a Floor Space Index (FSI) of 12.5.
3. Residential Units and Amenities
- Details: The residential component will include a mix of unit sizes, with the existing eight rental units being fully replaced as part of the development. Indoor amenities will total 868m² and will be distributed across the first, second, and fifth levels. These indoor spaces will be complemented by 826m² of outdoor amenities, located atop the podium and adjacent to the indoor areas. This combination of indoor and outdoor amenities is designed to enhance the living experience for residents, providing spaces for recreation and relaxation.
4. Retail and Community Spaces
- Details: At street level, the development will feature 321m² of space dedicated to retail and community uses. These spaces will front Eglinton Avenue, contributing to the vibrancy of the street and providing essential services to residents and the broader community. The developers also plan to convey outdoor community space to the City as part of an in-kind Community Benefits Charge (CBC) contribution. This space will be located in the northwest portion of the ground floor, with programming to be determined by the City.
5. Parking and Transportation Infrastructure
- Details: The development includes three levels of underground garage, providing 83 parking spaces for residents and 7 for visitors. Bicycle parking is also a key feature, with 481 spots allocated as follows: 381 long-term and 85 short-term spaces for residents, 5 for retail, and 10 within the public right-of-way. This infrastructure supports the project’s commitment to sustainable urban living, encouraging cycling and reducing reliance on cars.
6. Laneway and Access Enhancements
- Details: The design incorporates a rear east-west laneway that will initially maintain private driveway access from Eglinton Avenue. Future plans envision extending the laneway, closing off direct access from Eglinton Avenue, and expanding the landscaped open spaces. This modification aims to enhance the pedestrian experience and improve safety by reducing vehicular traffic directly accessing the busy thoroughfare.
Construction Focus and Challenges
Coordination with LRT Construction
Urban Toronto reports that given the proximity of the project to the soon-to-open Eglinton Line 5 Crosstown LRT, coordination between the construction teams and the ongoing transit development will be crucial. The project site is situated just 225 meters from Fairbank Station and 230 meters from Oakwood Station, placing it within the Protected Major Transit Station Areas (PMTSA). This proximity offers excellent transit access for future residents but also requires careful planning to minimize disruptions during construction.
Sustainable Construction Practices
The development’s focus on sustainable urban living will likely extend to its construction practices. This could involve the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient building systems, and waste reduction strategies. For construction workers, this presents an opportunity to engage with sustainable construction techniques that are increasingly becoming the industry standard.
The proposed 39-storey tower at 1711-1741 Eglinton Avenue West represents a significant addition to Toronto's urban landscape, particularly in the rapidly developing Oakwood Village area. With its mix of residential, retail, and community spaces, the project aims to create a vibrant, sustainable community that is well-connected to public transit. For workers in the construction field, this development offers the chance to be part of a transformative project that will shape the future of this neighborhood. As the project progresses, it will serve as a model for integrating new high-density developments into existing urban environments.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 1711 Eglinton Avenue West Mixed Use Development Oakwood Village - Toronto (0047081924)