BNKC Newsletter – November 2024

 

 

Happy updates from BNKC.

Project Update
Our Bold Vision for Toronto’s Golden Mile

BNKC render of 1911-1921 Eglinton Avenue East Master Plan

8 Buildings | 10-53 Storeys | 2.3 Million sq ft | ~2,775 Units | ~10,640 Residents

We are thrilled to share that our community plan for Eglinton Avenue’s Golden Mile has been officially submitted for OPA and ZBA approvals, offering the public its first look at this transformative project. BNKC’s ambitious vision for this 9-acre site, blends high-rise and mid-rise buildings with vibrant public spaces. The plan integrates residential, commercial, and community amenities with a focus on green infrastructure, active transportation, and pedestrian-friendly environments.

BNKC render of 1911-1921 Eglinton Avenue East Master Plan

As the project progresses through municipal review, we’re excited to shape this forward-looking and connected community. Stay tuned for more updates as this dynamic project moves forward!

BNKC render of 1911-1921 Eglinton Avenue East Master Plan
BNKC render of 1911-1921 Eglinton Avenue East Master Plan
BNKC render of 1911-1921 Eglinton Avenue East Master Plan
BNKC render of 1911-1921 Eglinton Avenue East Master Plan

Project Update
Clockwork: Building One at the Finish Line

Photo of Clockwork at Upper Joshua Creek under construction.

We are excited to announce that Building One of Clockwork at Joshua Creek (left) is nearing completion, with partial occupancy expected to begin this month. Building Two (right) is close to completing building envelope and will occupy next year. This mixed-use community plan development by BNKC in North Oakville, will eventually feature six mid-rise residential buildings designed to foster a walkable, vibrant community.

Photo of Clockwork at Upper Joshua Creek under construction.

The first phase, designed by our team and offering 329 units in two buildings, integrates a network of green spaces, community plazas, and retail amenities. Environmental initiatives like geothermal technology and high efficiency building designs ensure sustainability at the forefront.

Read more about Clockwork here.

Community Activation
Reflecting on Parking Day

Image of BNKC's Park(ing) Day activation.

On September 20, we transformed our parking lot at 672 Dupont Street for Park(ing) Day, a playful commentary on urban transformation. Staffer, Junho Yim set the mood with live guitar melodies, while Sara D’Amato’s contemporary dance added an artistic layer. Shengjie Qiu stepped up to lead the construction and assembly of our installation and took all these lovely photos. A “Free Advice” Booth featured an anonymous principal (in a cow mask!), humorously capturing the day with one visitor’s quip, “You get what you pay for, I guess.”

See some highlights below and check out the videos on our Instragram page.

Image of BNKC's Park(ing) Day activation.
Image of BNKC's Park(ing) Day activation.
Image of BNKC's Park(ing) Day activation.
Image of BNKC's Park(ing) Day activation.

Park(ing) Day is a global, participatory art project and is coordinated locally by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design. Citizens and designers temporarily transform parking spaces into mini-parks and public places to inspire conversations about urban design and the need for more open, accessible spaces. Thank you for engaging with us!

Learn more at parkingdaytoronto.ca

Project Update
East City Condos: Now Occupied

Photograph of the newly completed East City Condos.

East City Condos has officially completed construction and welcomed its first residents! Rising to nine storeys on the former St. Joseph’s Hospital site, this development blends seamlessly into its surroundings. As the tallest residential building in Peterborough, East City Condos offers 93 units with ample outdoor amenities. Early in its conception, the project earned a Brownie Award for its excellence as an infill development.

Learn more about East City on our website and stayed tuned for more photos coming soon!

Photograph of the newly completed East City Condos.
Photograph of the newly completed East City Condos.

Photos by Rémi Carreiro

Promotions

Exciting Announcement: Two New Associates at BNKC

Photo of Miriam (L) and Mehreen (R).

We are delighted to announce the promotion of Miriam Altamiranda and Mehreen Mujib to Associates! Miriam, as a Project Architect and Contract Administrator, ensures projects align with design intent and meet financial and quality goals. Mehreen, as a Project Manager, leads projects from initiation to completion, managing client relations and strategic goals.

“Miriam and Mehreen have shown exceptional dedication to the growth of the firm. Their leadership and ability to inspire others make them key to our future success. We are excited to see them flourish in their new roles as Associates.” 
– Vaughn Miller, Principal

Photo of Miriam (L) and Mehreen (R).

Both Miriam and Mehreen bring dedication, leadership, and a collaborative spirit to BNKC, reinforcing our commitment to delivering thoughtful, impactful designs. Congratulations to our new Associates!

Read the full announcement here.

Project Update

Construction Begins on NinetySeven Victoria: A New Chapter in Community Support

NinetySeven Victoria under construction.

We’re excited to announce that construction is now underway at NinetySeven Victoria Street North in downtown Kitchener. This pivotal phase focuses on the adaptive reuse and expansion of the existing warehouse, transforming it into a vibrant community hub. Part of The Working Centre’s “Making Home” initiative, the project will feature 44 affordable housing units, essential support services, and a new facility for St. John’s Kitchen.

NinetySeven Victoria under construction.
NinetySeven Victoria under construction.

Designed by BNKC with a focus on sustainability and community connection, the project blends modern additions with the historical character of the site. The adaptive reuse of the warehouse, combined with mass timber construction and energy-efficient systems, underscores our commitment to thoughtful and sustainable urban development. Stay tuned as this vital community resource takes shape!

See more photos on our website.

Events

BNKC Summer Social: A Great Gatsby Affair

BNKC Team photo from our Great Gatsby event.

This summer, we embraced a Great Gatsby-themed celebration at Lawrence Park Lawn Bowling & Croquet Club. The day was filled with lawn games, vintage fashion, and plenty of witty banter. From croquet matches to toasting camaraderie, it was a perfect blend of charm and fun. Check out the highlights on our Instagram reel. Cheers to more memorable moments! 🥂

BNKC Team photo from our Great Gatsby event.
BNKC Team photo from our Great Gatsby event.

Project Update

Cornell Community Vision Takes Shape

Render of Cornell Master Plan.

The Cornell Community Plan, designed by BNKC, has achieved full Council approval for OPA, ZBA, and DPOS and is moving forward with detailed engineering design. BNKC played a central role in shaping the vision for this integrated community, providing urban design and architectural services for the Community Plan and Phase 1.

Render of Cornell Master Plan.
Render of Cornell Master Plan.

Positioned between Markham Stouffville Hospital and the new Cornell Bus Terminal, the community will feature over 2,000 units across 11 buildings, ranging from 4 to 28 storeys. Our team’s work emphasizes connectivity and pedestrian-friendly spaces to shape a vibrant, sustainable neighborhood.

You can find more renders of Cornell on our Website.

Project Update

Northmount School Phased Transformation Underway

Project team photo at Northmount.

BNKC is leading the phased renovation and expansion of Northmount School, ensuring a renewed learning environment while maintaining the school’s character. The project includes 793 sq.m of new construction and 1,680 sq.m of renovations, such as a new second floor addition, redesigned agora, and expanded classrooms. Phase A is now complete, allowing the school to remain operational throughout the process.

People

Thanking Our Summer Interns

As we transition into fall, we want to recognize the contributions of our talented interns, Olivia Pires and Leyla Godfrey, both from the U of T Architecture program. Olivia, now pursuing her Master’s degree, played a key role in a Kingston Road condo project and will continue with us part-time. Leyla, a Master’s student with a background in photography, embraced the challenges of façade design and mastering new technical skills like Revit and coding.

Photo of Leyla (R) and Olivia (R).

Their passion for architecture’s blend of creativity and problem-solving was evident throughout their time with us. We’re excited to see their continued growth and wish them the best in their studies and future careers!

Hear what it’s like to intern at BNKC straight from Olivia and Leyla.

People

Welcoming Devrim Alan: Leading Digital Innovation at BNKC

We are thrilled to welcome Devrim Alan as BNKC’s new Digital Delivery Manager! With extensive experience in architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, Devrim integrates technology and design to enhance project delivery. His role focuses on streamlining workflows, troubleshooting technical issues, and fostering collaboration.

Photo of Devrim.

Devrim’s approach ensures that our projects run efficiently while maintaining creativity and quality. We’re excited to have him lead our digital initiatives and keep BNKC at the forefront of innovation. Welcome, Devrim!

Read more about Devrim’s role on our BNKC Blog.