The site is currently home to a two-and-a-half-storey building that was once used by the Visiting Homemakers Association. Built in 1969 and given heritage status in 2019, the front and side of this building will be kept and reused as part of the new tower's main entrance.
Urbanize Toronto reports that a nearby 3-storey townhouse will be removed to make room for the new construction. During the early stages of building, construction crews will need to carefully protect the heritage parts of the structure while working on the new tower around them.
The proposed tower will rise over 146 metres. The lower part of the building will feature bold, geometric shapes and copper siding, while the upper floors will be more uniform in appearance.
At ground level, the plan includes a 3,003-square-foot retail space and an outdoor terrace. Additional outdoor spaces in the back of the building will include a pet relief area and places for dining and relaxing.
The new building will offer:
517 rental apartments, including:
299 one-bedroom units
165 two-bedroom units
53 three-bedroom units
Amenities for residents:
3,951 sq. ft. of outdoor space on the ground level
3,359 sq. ft. terrace on the second floor
1,441 sq. ft. terrace on the fifth floor
11,132 sq. ft. of indoor space for activities and services
Many different trades will be needed to build this project. Workers will help with outdoor areas, indoor finishes, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, and electrical work.
The building will also include a two-level underground parking garage with:
34 vehicle spaces:
24 for residents
8 for visitors
2 pick-up and drop-off spots
583 bicycle parking spaces:
104 for short-term use
10 for public access
Construction workers will need to be mindful of safety and traffic while working near such a busy area. Delivering materials and planning site access will require careful coordination.
Graywood has submitted applications for zoning changes and site plan approval. If the city approves the project, it will join several other tall towers planned for Davisville Village. More than 7,300 new homes are already planned in the area, including some buildings as tall as 53 storeys.
The site is located between Yonge Street and Mount Pleasant Road, just north of Mount Pleasant Cemetery. It’s a central location with excellent transportation options, making it a great place for high-rise housing.
If this project moves ahead, it will offer plenty of work for construction crews. Tasks will range from preserving historic architecture to building a modern high-rise tower. Trades involved will include concrete, steel, bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and finishing.
This development will bring hundreds of homes and new retail space to midtown Toronto. It’s a chance to combine the city’s past and future—and a great opportunity for skilled workers to help shape the skyline.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - 170 Merton Street Mixed-Use Development Davisville Village - Toronto (0089032425)