Location: 717 Church Street, Toronto
Developer: Capital Developments
Architect: Diamond + Schmitt Architects Inc.
Breaking away from the common rectangular condo tower shape, a newly proposed 29-storey high-rise in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood has opted for a twist on the classic flatiron design.
In November, a Zoning By-law Amendment application was submitted to city planners to construct a mixed-use 29-storey tower at 717 Church Street. The developer, Capital Developments, is behind several other noteworthy Toronto projects, including Azura Condos and the master-planned community, Bloor & Dufferin Condos.
The development site is a triangular ‘island’ lot formed by the intersection of three Toronto streets — Church Street, Collier Street, and Park Road. Covering an area of 10,164 square feet, the site is currently occupied by surface parking, an office at 717 Church Street and a three-storey, multi unit building.
The proposed high-rise would cover 211,575 square feet of gross floor area, including 300 residential units and at-grade retail space. Designed to follow the curve of Church Street, the flatiron-like building mimics the triangular shape of the site. Widened sidewalks will lead to a privately-owned public space on the west side of the site. A potential art location near Collier Street and Park Road is also included as part of the proposal.
“The flatiron building design of the Proposed Development is a unique architectural gesture that signifies the prominence of the development and the block it is situated upon,” explains the planning rationale, written by Urban Strategies Inc.
On the north portion of the property, a porte-cochere will provide an arrival and loading space screened with bronze fins which would continue up the tower to the 15th level. Due to site constraints and in an effort to promote sustainable transportation, the proposal does not include space for private car parking. Three car-share parking stalls and 320 bicycle parking spaces would be incorporated instead.
“The [300 condo] units are complemented by generous bike parking, retail uses at grade, fitness and yoga rooms, and a sizable coworking lounge to service those who may choose to work from home more often in the future,” says the planning rationale.
In the neighbourhood, sales continue at Fifty Scollard Condos, while construction kicked off for 11 Yorkville last month.
