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Shoring work continues at Cielo Condos, having made notable advancements as work commenced on the residential parking area in mid-June. The development, a project by Collecdev, is located in the Annex, one of Toronto's arts and cultural hubs. This 29-storey mixed-use development, designed by KPMB Architects, will redefine the neighbourhood's skyline with a refined architectural modernism, while retaining portions of the late-19th century Bloor Street United Church, which stands at the forefront of the future mixed-use tower.
The project has recently completed the first phase of 40-metre-deep structural caissons just north of the TTC tunnel. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the construction process, ensuring the stability of the structure and the safety of the surrounding areas, including the subway tunnels below. Images from the site offer a closer look at the equipment involved in the construction of the structural caissons. In this case, we see a long metal casing along a series of interconnected cylindrical sections. This casing will be used to create boreholes for a new caisson wall, a vital component of the project's foundation.
Following the completion of the caissons, shoring for the residential parking started in mid-June, 2023. As of now, approximately 25% of the shoring work has been completed. This process involves the construction of a temporary structure to support the surrounding soil and existing structures, allowing for safe excavation and construction of the building's underground levels. Additional images looking south showcase a shoring machine in operation.
Once shoring is complete, the project is set to move into the next phase of construction: bulk excavation. Scheduled to start in mid-September, this phase will involve the removal of large quantities of soil behind the church walls, preparing the ground for the foundation of the building. Following the excavation, the construction team will proceed with drilling and installing tiebacks, further reinforcing the shoring walls and ensuring the stability of the excavation site.
In addition to these construction milestones, the final heritage work on the site is set to restart in early September, 2023. This work involves the installation of an interior retention system at the Pidgeon House located on the northeast corner. The heritage building at 478 Huron Street highlights the architectural makeup of the Annex in the late 19th century. In addition, the excavation of a new basement will take place, following the completion of the underpinning work that has already strengthened the foundation of the existing structure.
Cielo Condos is situated just steps away from designer boutiques on Mink Mile in Yorkville, and across from University of Toronto. Situated roughly halfway between Spadina and St George stations on the TTC's Bloor Line 2, many of Central Toronto's offerings are within walking distance or a short commute.
UrbanToronto will continue to follow progress on this development, but in the meantime, you can learn more about it from our Database file, linked below. If you'd like, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum thread or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.
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