BNKC Is Design Architect of 5507-5509 Dundas, a catalyst to the redevelopment of central Etobicoke by the City of Toronto to promote density through mixed-use, transit-oriented development. One of the first high-rise developments in the 427 and Dundas neighbourhood, this 21-storey purpose-built rental high-rise targets young professionals who desire easy access to Pearson Airport and Downtown Toronto, while avoiding the high cost of the downtown housing market.
Attention to detail and programming make this building unique in the rental market. Innovating on other purpose-built rental apartments, 5507-5509 Dundas will provide well-designed and generous indoor and outdoor amenities that encourage a social culture for the building’s community. Amenities include a large lobby that performs as a communal living room, a bike repair workshop, pet wash station, and exercise club.
Architecturally, the building will provide a unique identity for this important corner. One that signifies its relevance as the bridge between mid- to high-rise building in the area. The 21-storey tower rises from the corner, unbroken by the podium it emerges from. At ground level, the entrance to the building opens like a stepped back zipper.
Along Dundas, commercial spaces are delineated with large square windows. On the quieter face of the building, around the corner, a series of townhomes create a friendly street presence. Above, a layered podium house the building’s amenity spaces.
The tower’s envelope follows a patterning rule - a modular push and pull of solids and voids. These spaces also serve as sunshades, offering privacy and unique sight lines and provide opportunities for residents to socialize and connect with their neighbours. The resulting playful balcony expression looks like a secret-code, broadcasting a message from the building’s façade to the surrounding community: this is not your typical apartment building.
5507-5509 Dundas addresses a need for quality purpose-built rental accommodation. Young professionals are seeking beautiful design and serviced amenities and don’t necessarily want to buy into the condo market. This project meets those needs and is a prototype for future purpose-built mid-rise rental apartment buildings on infill sites throughout the City of Toronto.