99 Gerrard
- Location
- Toronto, Canada
- Client
- KingSett Capital Inc.
- Expertise
- Architecture
- Interior Design
- Completion
- 2020
99 Gerrard, a pioneering mixed-use development originally built in the 1970s, combines office, residential, and retail spaces in downtown Toronto. The client sought to enhance the site’s value by adding density and introducing 274 purpose-built rental units, transforming the existing property into a more modern and valuable asset.
The main challenge involved adding a 32-storey tower to the existing building within a tightly constrained site. The team first removed a two-storey retail extension and then cut through the five-storey underground parking garage to create a foundation for the new tower. Each slab was meticulously cut, using tie-backs to shore up the walls while maintaining the functionality of the parking structure. Additionally, the project leveraged the nearby Enwave District Energy plant, prompting a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade for the existing building, leading to significant energy and cost savings.
The development fosters inclusivity by providing shared access to expansive high-quality amenities, including a library, lap pool, spa and games space along with a rooftop terrace entertainment space, enhancing the living experience for all tenants. By focusing on purpose-built rental units, the project also supports the growing demand for diverse and affordable housing options in Toronto.
By optimising the use of existing real estate, the project delivers more housing in a high-demand area while incorporating energy-efficient solutions. This development sets a precedent for sustainable urban infill, promoting long-term value and offering a forward-thinking model for future high density projects in the city. Environmental sustainability for 99 Gerrard:
- Used low-emitting materials and met ASHRAE 55 thermal comfort standards
- Juliette balconies were chosen to prevent thermal bridging
- NEST thermostats in all units allow for efficient climate control
- A green roof serves as both an amenity and biophilic space for tenants
“The building conditions assessment and proximity to Enwave helped us integrate systems cost effectively, putting the building on the path to low carbon—a key goal in the climate emergency.”