Streetcar Developments is gearing up to introduce The Carlaw – a striking new condominium that is sure to become a blockbuster hit at Carlaw and Dundas Streets in the up-and-coming Leslieville neighbourhood. Playing a major role in the rejuvenation of the former industrial area of South Riverdale, this residence will offer contemporary living in the midst of large film studios, new restaurants, cafés, shops and services, with more being added all the time. Residents will live near both the Dundas and Queen streetcars, and the evolving Portlands district is nearby as well. Within a few blocks, the DVP, Gardiner Expressway and Lake Ontario are easily accessible.

THE CARLAW BRINGS INNOVATIVE DESIGN TO TORONTO'S EAST END

Streetcar Developments were wise to invite the talents of TACT Architecture in the design of the Carlaw. The architectural firm has been virtually rejuvenating the visual landscape of Toronto one building at a time, from the residences at Sync Condos to the exciting new properties 2 Gladstone and 8 Gladstone under construction in the Art and Design District. It's a style that Principal Architect Prishram Jain describes as "warm modernism" – eye-catching without being unfriendly. "These are spaces designed to invite people in," says Mr. Jain.

The Carlaw's design simply pops with multiple textures and materials, almost as if woven – vertical and horizontal lines form an artistic collage. As a nod to Leslieville's rich industrial heritage, TACT Architecture used masonry brick to reflect the Carlaw's surroundings. Accents of precast concrete form the corners of balconies and are even used as canopies. However, the most innovative element of this exterior is its curtain wall glass, a material most commonly used in higher-end luxury buildings. "Curtain wall glass represents a forward-looking aspect of the building," explains Mr. Jain, "Simply because it allows for a clean modern-looking expression."

Neighbours and residents will both benefit from TACT’s design of the unique 20,000 sq. ft. indoor venue/ outdoor courtyard – a space where community members are invited to program cultural activities and social events – from fashion shows to film festivals, farmer's markets to Nuit Blanche performances, cooking classes to wine tastings. You'll never have a boring moment while living in or near this architectural gem.

 

That is, of course, if anyone wants to leave. This locale is rich with character, housing a fantastic array of places to run errands, hang out with friends and enjoy life. Suite owners at The Carlaw will live within walking distance to shopping, restaurants, Jimmie Simpson Park, entertainment venues and nightlife along Queen. Imagine being able to stroll to Hooked for seafood; the Brick Street Bakery, Bobette and Belle artisanal pastries, and Ed’s Real Scoop ice cream shop for something sweet; Te Aro for a coffee; and Guff for vintage furniture. And when you feel like dining out, it’s a quick stroll to Gio Rana’s Really Really Nice Restaurant (a.k.a. The Nose) for Italian; Ceili Cottage for hip Irish pub fare; Tomi-Kro for tapas, Greek and international cuisine; and Queen Margherita Pizza, named one of the top 10 restaurants by Toronto Life. The time to become part of Toronto’s historic east end is NOW, before there’s standing room only!