Every week or so, we take a look at a building that is architecturally interesting, and what it’s existence has done to the neighbourhood in which it’s erected. We’ve set our sights close to home this time. Toronto is well over 200 years old, and builders and developers continue to add to the city, while maintaining a level of respect that allows us to appreciate the city for what it was, what it is, and what it can be.
This week, we are taking a look at architectsAlliance and Great Gulf Homes’, 18 Yorkville, at Yorkville and Yonge Street. The project year was 2005, it cost roughly $60 million, and the area is more than 360,000 square feet. The 36-storey tower is a continuation of its seven-storey podium, which runs along Scollard. The Scollard enclave’s design mimics the height and classic design of the Victorian-style homes on the street. There are 511 one- and two-bedroom units, ranging from 471 to 1,242 square feet. The living spaces are designed for young professionals, couples, and small families. The symmetrical facades and living spaces pay homage to the artistic history of the area.
The residence’s amenities on the eighth floor consist of the luxuries that you would expect to find in an urban condominium, such as fitness facilities, lounges, bars, a billiards room, a media room, and a rooftop garden.
The history of the neighbourhood and the current state of the community is interesting. The Yorkville area was known as the “Village of Yorkville” when it was first founded back in 1830; at the time, it consisted only of suburban residences in the Victorian style; some of them still stand today. Over the years the area developed into a scene for bohemian culture, and was essentially a breeding ground for Canadian talent including Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot, and some at-the-time underground writers, like Margaret Atwood, Gwendolyn MacEwen, and Dennis Lee.
The construction of 18 Yorkville transformed a slightly rundown corner of the esteemed district into an exclusive and sought-after location. Yorkville is one of Toronto’s premier shopping districts, with high-end boutiques and the prestigious Hazelton Lanes shopping complex. 18 Yorkville sits on the edge of a string of cafes, bistros, art galleries, live theatres, fine dining, and antique emporiums. The area is also considered Toronto’s top spot for celebrity sightings.
ArchitectsAlliance and Great Gulf Homes’ contribution to Yorkville has created an urban space at one of the entrances (close proximity to the Yonge subway line) to one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in Toronto. The design and construction of the tower respects the community’s artistic history and quaint charm. We are looking forward to all of Great Gulf Homes’ future developments, and cannot wait until architectsAlliance graces our skyline with some more of their sleek, modern tower.
