While it’s not a film, a new 69-storey development with a big-name celebrity collaboration promises to be the next great star in downtown Toronto.
On August 16th, Reserve Properties and Capital Developments unveiled a unique high-rise, mixed-use tower in collaboration with award-winning Canadian actor Simu Liu, called 8 Elm.
Set near Toronto’s bustling Yonge and Dundas intersection, 8 Elm was conceived as a juxtaposition between the human-scaled charm of Elm Street and the bustling, kinetic energy of the downtown core. The project will see three historic façades fully restored and preserved at street level with a soaring tower constructed above.
A true mixed-use development, 8 Elm will feature multi-level retail along its Yonge Street frontage, as well as over 5,000 square feet of public community space. The project will contribute several millions of dollars towards affordable housing and other community initiatives in the local area. At Liu’s request, the entire development team will be collaborating on soon-to-be-announced charitable events.
Liu is best known for his breakout role in CBC’s Kim’s Convenience and the historic first Asian-fronted movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.
“I have always believed that real estate developers have a responsibility to give back to the cities they build in,” said Liu. “Having lived in the same Bay Street apartment for eight years, I know the importance of designing and optimizing every square foot of living space so residents can feel happy and relaxed in their homes.”
Interiors were designed by award-winning interior design firm Cecconi Simone and heavily inspired by New York’s doorman buildings. Residents and visitors can expect to see rich metal detailing, dramatic colour palettes and natural stones and marbles throughout the tower courtesy of the architects at IBI Group, striking a carefully curated balance between contemporary and traditional design.
8 Elm’s expert design and rich amenities becomes apparent from the moment residents and guests step foot in the building. Accessible from Elm Street, an intimate lobby with double-storey ceilings greets all who enter. The concierge desk will be grounded by a custom light fixture and a backdrop framed by a decorative metal screen, while a welcoming fireplace and lounge offer a restful place to sit and wait for guests or rideshares.
Future residents will enjoy 26,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenity space across multiple levels, starting with a fitness centre that features weights, yoga, TRX and training areas and spills onto an outdoor terrace.
One level up, an entire floor will be dedicated to amenity spaces, anchored by a large terrace on the west, south and east sides of the high-rise. This unique amenity floor includes a co-working space complete with meeting rooms, banquettes and a copy/print area. On the other side of the floor lies the social lounge that features a bar, lounge, and casual seating alongside communal tables.
On the 56th floor, you’ll find the crowning feature of 8 Elm’s vast amenity program, The Sky Club. This luxurious lounge area has its own private terrace that offers spectacular views of the city skyline. Wrapped in fabric walls, the bar area is dark and dramatic with back-lighted alabaster bar that lights up the space. Built-in upholstered benches and bar seating add to the intimate setting, giving the Sky Club a feeling of luxury and exclusivity.
8 Elm will feature suites ranging from studios to three bedrooms. For more information, register at 8elm.com
