The intensification of Toronto’s Waterfront Communities neighbourhood is well underway, with the latest proposed addition promising to not only bring an influx of new residents but also contribute a significant impact to the skyline. Tridel has been pushing forward its ambitious Ten York Street Condos development following extensive public consultations and design modifications. We’ve received brand new renderings for the unique project, as well as specifics regarding changes made since the public consultation in September.

Rendering of Ten York from the southwest, image courtesy of Tridel

The tower is slated to rise on a unique triangular lot that runs along the south side of the Gardiner Expressway fronting York Street. The project can be seen in some degree as urban infill — while not occupying a space between existing buildings as the term usually implies, it nonetheless maximizes a lot that is quite literally wedged between existing infrastructures (the elevated highway and the major arterial road Lake Shore Boulevard). The Wallman Architects-designed tower recalls the Flatiron Building at Front and Wellington due to its triangular podium or, more recently, 33 Mill Street / Pure Spirit condominium in the Distillery District, designed by architectsAlliance.

Location of Ten York (early design) between Gardiner Expressway, off-ramp and Lakeshore Blvd., image courtesy of Tridel

Of particular note are the number of floors that Tridel has been permitted to construct. What started as 75 earlier this year and was subsequently downsized to 68 in September has now settled at 65 storeys, reaching 735 feet at its tip. The number of units has changed as well following the public consultation, having been bumped up from 726 to 728 units. Similarly, the number of parking spots has increased from 280 to 334, less than one spot for every two units.

Toronto skyline with the addition of Ten York, image courtesy of Tridel

The design of the project has seen substantial changes from its original incarnation. The tower component is now significantly stepped back from the podium on the east and west sides, creating an expansive podium terrace on the west side of the building. Forum members have been rallying against the extensive use of spandrel on the exterior, a design feature that has been gaining traction lately as it conceals structural elements, and can be used to insulate units as opposed to the aesthetically pleasing yet dubiously-sustainable all-glass curtain walls.

Top of Ten York Condos from the northeast, image courtesy of Tridel

Comparatively, the tower will better integrate in regards to its height with its surrounding neighbours. Ice Condos, directly north of Ten York, are currently under construction and climbing up to 57 and 67 storeys. Directly across from Ten York Menkes is developing Harbour Plaza Residences / 1 York Street. The office tower (1 York) is currently seeking 570 feet, while the two residential towers are asking for 765 and 735 feet, or 66 and 62 storeys.

What do you think of the design for Ten York and the changes coming to the area? Let us know below, and be sure to check out the dataBase page for more project renderings.