by Oliver von Bretten 
A new lifestyle prospect is blossoming on Toronto’ east side.
Jobs, transit, shopping, food, and famous urban icons all converge in the area surrounding St. Lawrence Market and the Distillery District, merging history with contemporary and enjoying “Front Street Living” at its best.
The Whitfield, a joint venture between Menkes Developments and CORE Development Group, is slated to rise precisely among these two destinations.
The development’s location at 180 Front Street East is excellent for any urbanite wishing to genuinely nestle into the historic fringe of downtown. It scores high ratings in walkability and connectivity.
Jared Menkes, the developer’s Executive Vice President of High-Rise Residential, says that there’s a lot of buzz in this area.
Newer office projects in the region, such as the Globe & Mail building and Shift (now under construction), are increasing demand and establishing a 24/7 or “full cycle” neighbourhood. People prefer to work near home and access facilities 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Even though Menkes is not the developer of these properties, they are precisely what we look for in a beautiful neighbourhood.
Menkes believes that younger residents will leave west-side communities like Queen Street West, King Street West, and Liberty Village. However, the East Side is better suited to all age groups and types of households.
While the building’s location appeals to a wide range of people, the structure does as well. Menkes further states that the Whitfield’s design pays homage to the neighbourhood’s manufacturing past – alluding to both the historical and the contemporary at the same time.
Menkes writes that the tower, designed by Giannone Petricone Associates, spotlights terracotta-toned fins. In contrast, the building’s signature curved façade attributes masonry ‘ribbons’ on the upper podium stages that represent balconies for some units, establishing a new modern aesthetic while concurrently fitting in with the history of the place.
Keeping with the notion of catering to a wide range of tastes, Figure3’s interior design incorporates a blend of modernism and tradition inside the structure.
Dominic De Freitas, Principal at Figure3 and head for the company’s residential studio, said that the St. Lawrence neighbourhood features exquisite heritage buildings coexisting with spectacular modern projects. The Whitfield has a unique personality that Figure3 readily conveys in its designs.
The business has integrated iconic styles with colourful materials, combining the old with the contemporary for creating an ambience that is both unique and timeless, drawing influence from the neighbourhood’s past.
When you step into The Whitfield’s lobby, you’ll feel you’re in a classy old-world boutique hotel, says De Freitas.
Menkes explains that all the traditional emotions are perfectly served. With that, it also considers convenience and functionality as essential components of Figure3’s development design. Future inhabitants can expect to log on into specific work areas before unplugging in their suite’s tranquil spa. A fitness centre, a bar and gaming area, and a theatre provide additional opportunities to unwind. In addition, a pet spa pampers even the furriest members of the household.
Amenities include useful places like the Co-work Lounge and pleasant outdoor spaces like the Garden Café, ensuring that every amenity fits an urban lifestyle, adds Menkes. Every space has been carefully considered.
It boasts the aesthetics and functionality of the interior. Also, anyone considering moving into — or investing in — a new-build should think about a few other things. For example, the condo’s location is fantastic now. But, in the long run, how will the neighbourhood look?
The response, in this case, is that the place is just growing better.
In the next eight years, Menkes will build approximately 6 million square feet on Toronto’s waterfront. Residents will enjoy visits to The St. Lawrence Market’s 120+ merchants, rides along the waterfront walk, and desserts at Sugar Beach during spring while anticipating all that is to happen to their neighbourhood over the next decade.
The Whitfield presents a once-in-a-lifetime urban possibility, with a destiny that looks much greater than its already-coveted present.
Discover Front Street Living and register today.
