Client: Bazis International, Metropia and RioCAN
Status: Under Construction, Expected Completion 2017
Credit:
Design: Samer Hout and Roy Varacalli
Interior Design: Mike Nevin Interior Design Inc.
Description:
Located at the intersection of one of Toronto’s most prominent junctions, the base of the tower is designed to facilitate and accommodate the movement of commuters, residents and pedestrians, while representing civic pride. Addressing this key urban corner, the building’s podium is a transparent 13-meter high enclosure that defines the edge of the new plaza and provides access to a host of retail activities.
The office component is contained in volumes placed at angles that follow the subtle shifting in orientation of both Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue. These volumes mark the corner with bold form and create protective canopies over the new plaza. A volume containing the swimming pool and the social component of the building splits the otherwise uninterrupted prismatic form of the tower, dramatically cantilevering in a gesture towards the city beyond. Wrap-around balconies are disguised behind a veil of glass, forming a geometric pattern that alters the all-so -common repetitive and relentless form of balconies that became synonymous with condominium developments in the city. This patterned glass creates an effect of layering and lightness, generating an ever-changing dynamic appearance.