In Toronto's hot condo market, rising prices have driven some would-be homeowners out of the market as affordable options are often not available. Neighbourhood Concepts Non-Profit Corporation (NCNC) are addressing this market by introducing and building affordable housing in Toronto. By reducing the number of costly amenities, marketing schemes, flashy model suites, and profit margins, NCNC is able to offer lower housing prices and provide homeownership to a greater number of people.

The East Yorker by HCA Architecture for Neighbourhood Concepts Non-Profit Corporation

NCNC work exclusively with HCA Architecture and Lomax Realty Development Group to design and market projects. Their intention is to offer not just great exterior aesthetics and interior design, but also sustainability. By incorporating green features like solar water heaters, green roofs and geothermal systems, NCNC and HCA Architecture are able to deliver projects with social and environmental benefits.

Cladding goes up at The East Yorker, image by Forum member downlingm

Two NCNC projects are currently underway in Toronto. The East Yorker at Cosburn Ave and Donlands Ave is a 12-storey mid-rise condo project with 105 units and a variety of layouts. Currently under construction, the project is due to be completed this year. With the building topped out, and precast cladding and glazing work well under way, residents can expect to see interior finishes being installed soon.

Rooftop patio at The East Yorker, image by HCA Architecture

Starting at 626 square feet, each unit offers large spaces for residents to call home. Solar heating systems decrease the environmental footprint of the building and decrease operating and maintaience costs. Residents will also enjoy outdoor patios, rooftop gardens and a library/lounge area. The building will also provide 6,000 square feet of space for the WoodGreen Community Services. Standing minutes away from Danforth Avenue's shops, restaurants, and the TTC Subway, any units here are a compelling buy.

Meanwhile, in Toronto's west end, NCNC's The Riverstone is introducing new condos into one of the city's most diverse neighbourhoods and one of its most scenic locales on the banks of the Humber River.

The Riverstone by HCA Architecture for Neighbourhood Concepts Non-Profit Corporation

Located near Weston Road and Lawrence Avenue West, the 10-storey Riverstone will bring 131 new affordable units to the area. HCA's design pays direct tribute to Frank Lloyd Wright's world famous Fallingwater. Builders will face a tall order to realize a worthy adaptation of the Pennsylvania masterpiece, characterized by the combination of the striking vertical stone pier and window, and cantilevered concrete balconies, all on a wooded river side setting.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater, image by Craig White

It's both a bit odd considering Fallingwater as a condominium while also somewhat exciting to see such a task being undertaken. With the architectural vision, a geothermal heating system, yoga room, a rooftop terrace and clubhouse, buyers interest should definitely be piqued by this ambitious project.

Rooftop patio at The Riverstone, image courtesy of Neighbourhood Concepts Non-Profit Corporation

The Riverstone fits seemlessly into its riverside surroundings. Steps away from the Humber River and its extensive park and trail network, homeowners will be able to escape the fast-paced life of the city and find peace along the river valley. Currently in the sales phase, the targeted completion date for Riverstone is unconfirmed.

The Riverstone on the banks of the Humber river, image courtesy of Neighbourhood Concepts Non-Profit Corporation

As new developments come forward and NCNC launches new projects, UrbanToronto will keep you up to date. Check out our dataBase pages for the projects, linked below, or the associated Forum threads to get in on the discussion, or you may leave a comment in the space provided on this page to make your voice heard.