studio gang's first project in canada will rejuvenate toronto street life

studio gang’s first project in canada has been introduced as a new model for sustainable urban growth in toronto. comprised of a mixed-use tower and new block plan, the project will bring urban improvements to toronto’s yonge and st. clair communities with new residential and retail spaces. the area will be re-established as a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with thriving retail, welcoming public spaces and world-class architecture. the project was announced on july 5th, 2018 during a community consultation session. 

all images courtesy of studio gang

in the design of this project, studio gang considers both the neighborhood sidewalk life as well as the residents of the tower. the formal language of the building preserves the community’s main street character. generous setbacks on both yonge street and delisle avenue allow for wider sidewalks, increased sunlight at street level, and new fine-grained retail—all of which will create a more enjoyable pedestrian experience.

brandon donnelly of slate asset management illustrates: “the building’s form was driven by two main considerations: a desire to respond to the local context and a desire to create comfortable and expansive outdoor space that can work in toronto. every residence in this building will have a generous terrace or balcony.”

the tower is designed as a series of eight-story elements which nest together as they spiral up the façade. as it moves upward from its rectilinear base, the building gently transforms into a compact, sixteen-sided tower that dramatically reduces shadows on the surrounding streets and neighborhood. the angled, alternating geometry allows for variously sized floor plates that result in unique conditions within the units, bringing a diversity of residential options to the mixed-use neighborhood. the the gently pitched geometry of the façade provides for a self-shading that allows each living space to both stay cool in summer and optimize light in winter.

as part of ongoing efforts at yonge and st. clair, slate has sought out opportunities to improve the public realm in a variety of ways. one delisle presents an opportunity to continue this legacy. donnelly remarks: “community and city input is always a powerful tool in the design and planning process. the proposed design has been influenced by some of the early discussions we had with city staff and the local councillor, and we’re excited to begin a more public discussion of the project.“

after debuting the design to the community, slate will be making an official submission to city planning. “we feel we’ve put forward a design that not only elevates the architecture discussion in this city but also maximizes community and public benefits. now it’s time to talk about that publicly.“