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The impending arrival of the Crosstown LRT is having impacts beyond Eglinton Avenue itself and onto streets near the future stations of the rapid transit line, and a growing number of development proposals promise to quickly transform some of Toronto's midtown avenues. Leaside is experiencing a high demand from buyers wishing to move into the area, while some longtime residents are looking to downsize but not leave the area. Indeed, at 146-150 Laird Drive across from Leaside Smart Centre, an application from V!VA LIFE proposes a retirement living residence.
Conceived by RAW Design, the project is composed of two distinct buildings. On the south side of the site where currently stands a parking lot, an 8-storey rental retirement building will bring 175 units for seniors over 15,440 square metres, as part of phase 1 of the development. A series of step-backs at the back of the building will assure a smooth transition with the houses along Randolph Road to the west. Suites will either consist of independent or assisted living, and will be placed on top of 3 levels of underground parking that will provide 183 spaces.
The second phase at the north end of the site will consist of a 7-storey high, 8,096 square-metre condominium building for seniors with 109 units, to be linked to phase 1 by a 3-storey structure. The building will retain and integrate the listed heritage facade of the brick edifice currently standing on the site, and will contrast it by featuring a highly articulated modern facade above. The first and second phase buildings will relate to each other through the use of brick.
UrbanToronto will keep an eye on this project. If you want to get involved in the discussion now, you can check out our associated Forum thread, or leave a comment in the space provided at the bottom of this page.
