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With the soaring downtown real-estate market attracting scores of young professionals to a thriving urban setting, the ongoing densification of the city centre has created an interesting side-effect: their parents are now empty-nesters who are often looking to downsize and enter the condominium market as well. Mid-size condominium projects located close to traditional neighbourhoods have proven quite popular among this market of home buyers, offering the vehicular access common to single family homes as well as the ample amenities seen in new condominiums.
In 2010, construction commenced on the first phase of Aspen Ridge Homes’ Scenic on Eglinton, the first two buildings in a three-tower mid-size development located at the northeastern edge of Leaside. The aptly named Scenic takes its moniker from the remarkable views offered from its advantageous location atop the verdant West Don Valley. We stopped by the nearly complete first phase, now beginning to occupy, to see how the Page + Steele / IBI Group Architects-designed project was coming along.
In the spirit of the townhouses across the street from it, the southern frontage of Scenic’s ground floors contain spacious 2-storey townhomes fronting onto Brian Peck Crescent. When inside these towns, it is virtually impossible to perceive that you are standing on the ground floor of a 14-storey building. In the photos posted below, we take a detailed look at one of the 2-storey townhomes, which include similar features and finishes as the units found throughout the tower suites above.
Besides the nicely finished suites, Scenic also contains stylish common areas and amenity spaces oufitted by Mike Niven Interior Design. These rooms unite retro and modern aesthetics to create striking environments for Scenic residents and guests to interact in. While the final touches that will personalize the rooms are still to come, we saw very welcoming amenities in the making.
The naturally lit, multi-storey lobby which serves both towers is finished with warm wood and stone accents and contains generous seating – a touch sure to be appreciated by residents waiting for guests, taxis etc.,.
In addition, a living-greenwall is being constructed within the lobby, adding a natural element which ties the building in with its nearby nature enclaves.
Living in an age where health is on everyone’s minds, Scenic’s residents will have access to a fully equipped exercise room, as well as a lap pool and sauna.
Kids in the complex will love the playspace set up for them, with lots of things to climb on like built-in plush benches.
Party facilities look nice too…
The retro-chic is especially apparent in the building's lounge where a Space Age look predominates. We particularly loved the tree bar stools seen above!
Work on the building’s outdoor amenity space just outside the lounge is ongoing, and is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Once done, residents will have an intimate setting to barbecue or just enjoy the outdoors.
Back inside and further up in the Scenic 2 tower, interior work continues in suites on the upper floors. Though these units are a good ways from completion, they are on track for scheduled occupancy later this year.
There is much more to see at Scenic on Eglinton, so make sure to check back for the conclusion of our tour tomorrow. In the meantime, additional information including building facts, renderings and floorplans can be found at the associated dataBase page, linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the related forum threads, or voice your opinion in the comments section provided below.
