Liberty Village, a neighborhood known for its blend of historic industrial architecture and modern urban development, is poised for a significant transformation with the proposed 55-storey mixed-use tower at 147 Liberty Street. If approved, this high-rise, designed by Sweeny & Co Architects Inc. for developer Intentional Capital, will become the tallest structure in the area, significantly altering the skyline and setting a new precedent for future development.
Project Overview
The proposed development spans 2,673 square meters and includes multiple properties at 147-151 Liberty Street and 54-68 Fraser Avenue. The site currently houses a mix of one- and two-storey commercial buildings, some of which date back to the early 20th century and have historical significance. These include former factories such as the S.F. Bowser and Company Factory and the Arlington Company of Canada Factory, reflecting the area’s rich industrial past.
To preserve Liberty Village’s historical character, the project will incorporate key heritage elements. Plans include retaining the existing building at 147 Liberty Street in-situ and preserving the facades of 58-60 and 62-64 Fraser Avenue. However, 54 Fraser Avenue will be demolished to make way for the new construction.
Design and Features
Urban Toronto reports that the proposed tower will rise to a height of 179.62 meters, surpassing the previously approved tallest building in the neighborhood by 30 meters. The design features a two-storey podium with office space at the base, supporting a sleek, glass-clad 53-storey residential tower above. The development will offer:
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732 residential units, comprising 536 one-bedroom, 123 two-bedroom, and 73 three-bedroom apartments. With 27% of the units being two- and three-bedroom layouts, the development aims to accommodate larger households and families.
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12,270 square feet of office space on the lower levels, ensuring that commercial activity remains a vital part of the community.
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23,637 square feet of amenities, including 13,659 square feet of indoor spaces and 10,010 square feet of outdoor terraces. The largest outdoor amenity area will be located on the second floor, wrapping around the building's eastern and southern edges and connecting to an indoor space.
Sustainability and Transit-Oriented Development
A key aspect of this project is its transit-oriented approach. Given its proximity to Exhibition Station on the GO Lakeshore West line and the under-construction Ontario Line 3, the development prioritizes public transit over private vehicle use. As a result:
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The project will include 736 bicycle parking spaces to encourage cycling as a primary mode of transportation.
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Only 30 vehicle parking spaces will be provided, exclusively for visitors. There will be no long-term parking for residents, aligning with the city's push toward sustainable urban mobility.
Community and Urban Impact
This proposal marks a significant shift for Liberty Village, particularly in its western section, where redevelopment has been slower compared to the eastern part of the neighborhood. The introduction of high-density residential space will help meet Toronto’s growing housing demand while integrating office and commercial spaces to support the area’s economic activity.
However, the project will also bring challenges, including increased density, potential strain on local infrastructure, and the need to balance modern development with heritage preservation. The City of Toronto will need to carefully consider zoning amendments and feedback from community stakeholders before granting approvals.
Next Steps
Bousfields Inc. has submitted Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications on behalf of Intentional Capital, as the site is currently designated as employment lands. If the proposal moves forward, it will likely undergo further public consultations and refinements to address community concerns and regulatory requirements.
With its bold design, focus on sustainability, and commitment to preserving historical elements, this development could reshape Liberty Village’s landscape, blending the past with the future in one of Toronto’s most dynamic neighborhoods. As the city evaluates the proposal, residents and urban planners alike will be watching closely to see how this transformative project unfolds.
