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At UrbanToronto, we have been closely following ongoing foundation construction for Great Gulf Homes' much anticipated One Bloor East. A project as long-awaited as this is stirring up a lot of excitement as every stage of construction has been put under the microscope. With excavation completed, and both tower cranes in place, work is now well underway on foundations and the central elevator core is beginning to take shape.
Unlike the traditional exterior construction hoists seen throughout Toronto, Tucker Hi-Rise Construction will be using KONE JumpLift elevators. The JumpLift is unlike other hoists in that it is housed inside the main elevator core, shielded from the elements by the surrounding structure; improving speed, safety and efficiency on-site. This will be the first project in North America to incorporate this innovative technology.
Surrounding the base of the elevator core is a vast expanse of rebar, occupying just over half of the bottom of the pit. The rebar forms a lattice of steel, expected to be filled with concrete in the coming weeks. This “big pour” will be a massive undertaking, involving a convoy of cement trucks pouring into the pit continuously for many hours. The resulting reinforced concrete pad will form a sturdy base from which the 75-storey tower will rise.
Designed by Hariri-Pontarini Architects, One Bloor East’s sensuous design will incorporate swept curving balconies with gradually shifting balconies, creating an overall sculptural effect. The sculptural theme of the building will also be reflected in the interiors, by veteran Toronto design firm, Cecconi Simone.
The building will house more than enough amenities (easily enough for their own article), but the greatest selling point is its location. Residents of One Bloor East will have direct access to Bloor-Yonge TTC station, the busiest subway interchange in Toronto. Aside from being a transit hub, Yonge and Bloor is a major destination for high end shopping and with nearby attractions such as the ROM and the Bata Shoe Museum.
Construction on Great Gulf Homes’ One Bloor East is scheduled to be completed in late 2014. For additional information and renderings, click on the dataBase link provided below. To get involved in the discussion about the project, you can check out the related thread here.
