Work on a modestly sized yet strikingly designed mid-rise condominium development got under way earlier this month as a two-storey brick building at 202-204 Bathurst Street—a short distance north of Queen Street—was taken down to make way for Symmetry Developments' Origami. The 7-storey condominium project boasts an innovative design by Teeple Architects, marked by complex geometries expressed through a playful zinc facade.

Rendering of Origami, image courtesy of Symmetry Developments

Comparing the market rendering above with a similar angle showing the state of the site as it appears today, we can see that the two-storey building which occupied the site until recently has been almost entirely demolished. The next step in Origami's construction will be the shoring and excavation phases, after which the new mid-rise will begin its ascent back to street level.

West facing view of the site of Origami Condos, image by Vik Pahwa

Origami site (right) as it appeared prior to demolition activity, image from Google Street View

The completed development will offer 24 residential units atop ground floor retail space, keeping with the commercial character of this portion of Bathurst Street. A modestly sized amenity space will give Origami residents space to gather and relax while still keeping maintenance fees low. The real amenity in boutique developments like Origami is the neighbourhood, and here, residents will find themselves in a highly walkable area offering everything fun, and all the necessities too.