As Toronto combats its housing dilemma, the pace of its Housing Now initiative hasn't met the initially set expectations. The culprits? The pandemic and surging interest rates. But all's not bleak. The collective efforts of the City, along with its partners in the private sector, are unyielding.
Tricon Residential, in collaboration with Kilmer Group and CreateTO, is pushing forward plans for an innovative mixed-use development at 5207 Dundas Street West. This project, having undergone revisions, now proposes an expanded blueprint, boosting both the height and unit count. Its strategic location near Kipling station on Bloor Line 2 adds to its appeal, offering residents enhanced connectivity.
Urban Toronto reports that this project, architecturally crafted by Henriquez Partners Architects, aligns seamlessly with the Housing Now directive. It promises Toronto a substantial injection of affordable housing units. Situated at 5027 Dundas Street West, it marks its territory on the intersection of Kipling Avenue and Dundas Street West. This area is earmarked for development, utilizing the lands recovered post the removal of the Six Points interchange.
A Refreshed Blueprint for Bloor-Kipling
The Bloor-Kipling vicinity recently underwent a Zoning By-law Amendment, spearheaded by CreateTO. This move anticipates the construction of several development blocks in the ensuing decade. This proposal introduces Block 1 to us, while the upcoming Etobicoke Civic Centre finds its home in Block 4.
Etobicoke’s New Downtown Dream
With the vision of crafting a new downtown for Etobicoke, this development echoes the ambitious city plans. Across Dundas Street, the civic centre, designed by the globally-renowned Henning Larsen Architects, promises a multiplicity of programs and amenities, including a state-of-the-art library and a YMCA facility.
Scaling Up Residential Development
The residential component presents a two-tower design - 29 storeys and 25 storeys, respectively, atop a 9-12 storey podium. The plans include:
- 725 residential units
- 507 market units and 218 affordable units
- Both towers share a podium ranging from 9 to 12 storeys
- A blend of market-rate and affordable rental apartments
- 4,738m2 dedicated to commercial enterprises
- Single level below-ground parking garage
Balancing Finances and Housing Needs
With a pivot from the previous proposal, the new design offers a larger number of market-rate units, signaling a strategy to counterbalance the economic challenges, like rising interest rates, and sustain the commitment to affordable housing.
Thoughtfully Designed Infrastructure
Parking, an often-overlooked component, receives due consideration with 206 spaces, both for residents and visitors. Bicyclists aren’t left behind, with ample space allotted for their two-wheelers.
The meticulous design extends to the podiums that enclose a courtyard. This space, brought to life by Claude Cormier et Associés, is a testament to their legacy, evoking memories of their iconic creation - the dog fountain at Berczy Park.
Amenities Galore
A total of 3,811m² is apportioned for indoor and outdoor amenities, featuring the following:
- 1,614m2 of indoor space
- 2,197m2 of outdoor space
- Landscaped courtyards
- Rooftop lounges
- Each tower is equipped with three elevators
The exterior, boasting a design signature of CCxA, infuses a natural touch with trees and verdant pathways, reminding many of their recent triumphs, such as the heart-shaped fountain at Love Park.
Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Housing Future
As Toronto, through CreateTO and its industrious private sector partners, sails through these turbulent waters, developments such as these promise hope. They stand as pivotal pillars, ensuring Toronto's citizens receive their rightful housing options.
