Skyline-Changing Front Street Proposal Revised With Heights Up To 71 Storeys

Oxford Properties has unveiled updated plans for its "Union Park" development at 315-325 Front Street West in Toronto, introducing significant changes to the project's scope and design. The revised proposal now features four towers, with the tallest reaching 71 storeys, marking a notable increase from the original plans submitted in 2019.

The development is strategically located near prominent landmarks such as the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, and the Rogers Centre. The updated design includes three residential towers of 71, 50, and 50 storeys, and one 60-storey office building. This adjustment reflects a shift in focus towards providing more residential units, nearly doubling the original count from 832 to 1,793 units. Consequently, residential space has increased from 719,352 sq. ft to 1,581,799 sq. ft.

In contrast, the office space allocation has been reduced from 2,805,182 sq. ft to 1,492,685 sq. ft, and retail space has decreased from 128,553 sq. ft to 47,113 sq. ft. These changes align with evolving market demands and the need for more housing in downtown Toronto. A spokesperson for Oxford Properties stated that the project aims to deliver much-needed purpose-built rental housing and add vibrancy to a transit-accessible downtown area.

The revised plan also emphasizes public amenities, including a daycare facility capable of accommodating 62 children, increased amenity spaces, and enhanced public areas. Notably, the "Winter Garden," an indoor glass atrium connecting two of the original towers, has been replaced with "Grand Stairs" to better suit the new design.

Public spaces are set to be improved, with plans for a 2,152-sq.-ft Privately-Owned Publicly Accessible Space (POPS) between two of the towers, offering seating and flexible programming options. Additionally, the "Shoreline Stitch," a landscaped promenade along the southern edge of the property, is designed to mimic the natural shoreline of Lake Ontario, enhancing the site's aesthetic and historical connection.

Oxford Properties has engaged Toronto-based Hariri Pontarini Architects to bring this master-planned development to life, aiming to redefine the city's skyline with a futuristic design featuring predominantly glass exteriors. The proposal is currently under review, and if approved, Union Park will significantly contribute to addressing Toronto's housing needs while revitalizing a key downtown area.