The (above) article discusses biomimetic architecture. Seems a little out there, but hey, at least the building/concept looks great. (Interesting discussion of their design evolution too).
Interesting to see the similarities in design language between this and BIG's King Street West project -- both are made up of stacked cubic forms rotated 45 degrees, both vaguely organic in their massing. The wood in this project also reminds me of BIG's use of wood in the terraces on the Mountain.
So, this is going to disappoint some, but you're going to need to adjust your expectations for this site. We have just received this note from Tridel and Hines:
Toronto, March 14, 2016-- Images of the proposed new phase of Bayside Toronto released this weekend by ODA New York, and published in several online media outlets, do not reflect the intentions of the project’s developers, Hines and Tridel.
Details of the next phase of Bayside Toronto will be publicly released, by the developers, on April 13th when they are submitted for consideration by the Waterfront Toronto Design Review Panel. Any images, or design details released by any party, prior to April 13th, should not be considered official and do not accurately reflect the intention of the developers or key stakeholders.
Hines and Tridel look forward to providing their official vision for the site, including the selection of architect, images and development details to members of the Waterfront Design Review Panel, and the general public, at the April 13th meeting.
Michael Gross
Hines
Jim Ritchie
Tridel
Who knows what this phase will be like, but you'll have to wait for April 13.
Wouldn't be shocked if it's something more along the lines of what's in the background of that rendering... except with more spandrel glass (it's Tridel after all).