Proposed Office Retrofit Would Bring 15-Storey Rental To Flemingdon Park

A 14-storey office building at 250 Ferrand Drive in Toronto's Flemingdon Park neighborhood is set for a major transformation. Amexon Development Corporation has proposed converting the largely vacant office space into a 15-storey residential rental building, offering over 300 eco-friendly loft-style units. This adaptive reuse project aims to address the area's housing needs while promoting sustainable development.

Located near the intersection of Eglinton Avenue East and Don Mills Road, the site is strategically positioned within the Aga Khan Park and Museum Major Transit Station Area. It's close to the upcoming Aga Khan Park & Museum LRT station and the planned Flemingdon Park station on the Ontario Line, providing future residents with excellent transit options.

The existing office building has faced high vacancy rates, currently at 83% and expected to reach full vacancy by fall. Amexon cites the declining demand for suburban office spaces as a key reason for the building's underutilization. By repurposing the structure for residential use, the developer aims to revitalize the property and contribute to the city's housing supply.

The proposed "e-lofts" will feature energy-efficient designs, including new façades with integrated solar panels to reduce overall energy consumption. The construction will utilize environmentally responsible materials, aligning with the project's eco-friendly objectives. By retaining the existing structure, the development minimizes construction waste and lowers its carbon footprint compared to a complete demolition and rebuild.

In addition to providing much-needed rental housing, the project plans to enhance the surrounding area. The site currently includes a six-storey unused parking structure and a large surface parking lot, both of which are underutilized. The redevelopment will transform these spaces into more functional and community-oriented areas, improving the neighborhood's overall appeal.

If approved, this project will be a significant step toward sustainable urban development in Toronto. By converting an obsolete office building into modern, eco-friendly housing, Amexon aims to meet the growing demand for residential units while promoting environmental responsibility. The proposal is currently under review by the City of Toronto.