Park Place Offers a Smart Investment in SmartVMC

Source: UrbanToronto

The GTA is growing at an incredibly rapid pace, representing one of the hottest job and real estate markets in the country. Emerging from a global pandemic, the GTA is poised to continue its current boom, as job creation picks up pace and cranes dot the sky in response to the huge demand for housing. One of the more noteworthy development nodes in the region is Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, where a new transit-oriented city centre has been established at the heart of Vaughan, bringing a new urban downtown to the quiet suburb. At the centre of this district is the SmartVMC master plan, a new mixed-use complete community led by SmartCentres REIT’s residential sub-brand, SmartLiving, that is designed with sustainability, livability, and prosperity in mind.

With several towers already completed or currently under construction, SmartLiving is introducing its next phase to the neighbourhood with Park Place. Located at the corner of Highway 7 and Commerce Street, Park Place features two towers of 48 and 56 storeys containing a total of 1,100 residential units and more than 10,000 ft² of retail space. The building, including the interiors, is designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering looking east toward Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving

There are several reasons why Park Place represents a smart investment for purchasers, and perhaps most significant among those reasons is its transit connectivity. SmartVMC is a transit-oriented community, with the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre subway station and the SmartVMC Bus Terminal situated at the heart of the neighbourhood, offering local and regional connections between TTC, VIVA, YRT, and ZUM services. VIVA’s Highway 7 bus rapid transit line also cuts through the area, with the BRT stop at Commerce Street located right next to Park Place. The rapid transit infrastructure ensures that the rest of the GTA will always be easily accessible from SmartVMC, which makes it an attractive place for businesses and new residents to call home.

Vaughan Metropolitan Centre subway station, image courtesy of SmartLiving




Park Place is joining a mixed-use community that contains everything one would need within walking distance, ensuring a diverse built form, a vibrant urban atmosphere, and convenience for residents and workers far into the future. The SmartVMC master plan is an ambitious vision to create a new city centre in Vaughan that, once complete, will encompass more than 100 acres and will contain over 20 million ft² of residential, retail, commercial, and cultural spaces. A total of 45,000 residents are projected to live in SmartVMC, creating a vibrant urban environment of its own.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITSmartVMC master plan, image courtesy of SmartLiving

Several key components of SmartVMC have already been completed, including a new 10,000 ft² public library branch; a brand new 70,000+ ft² YMCA; the 15-storey KPMG office tower; and the 9-storey PwC office tower, which together are home to more than 105,000 ft² of Class A office space with major tenants including PwC, KPMG, TD Bank, BMO, and Scotiabank. There is plenty of retail nearby, including both large-format retailers like IKEA and Walmart, as well as smaller boutique shops and restaurants like Buca and Balzac’s, with a further 500,000 ft² of retail spaces and restaurants planned for the neighbourhood. Several residential towers are also already gracing the SmartVMC skyline, welcoming thousands of new residents to the community.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITView of the PwC and YMCA Tower, image courtesy of SmartLiving

The future central park of the SmartVMC master plan is another reason to get excited about the community, which will be a significant green space designed by renowned landscape architect Claude Cormier. The park will contain a host of amenities for residents to enjoy and will become the new focal point and leisure space of the neighbourhood. Park Place is conveniently located directly adjacent to the central portion of the new park, offering sweeping views and easy access to this significant green space.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITClose-up rendering of Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving

SmartVMC also has the future in mind, as all of its buildings, including Park Place, are designed with a focus on environmental sustainability and resiliency. Each building meets high environmental standards, and each has been conceived with the goal of efficient and minimal energy use. The neighbourhood is planned in a way that makes it very walkable and bikeable, with a focus on transit, high-quality public realm design, and pedestrian comfort. By integrating a diverse mix of uses and providing access to higher-order rapid transit, the master plan is designed to minimize local car trips, which reduces the overall carbon footprint of the community.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITClose-up rendering of Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving

Beyond SmartVMC, the City of Vaughan also offers attractive reasons to live and work there and an optimistic future of growth and prosperity. Already home to over 320,000 residents and nearly 230,000 jobs, Vaughan has several major projects on the go that are poised to attract thousands more residents and jobs over the coming decades. Vaughan Metropolitan Centre is one such major node of development, as well as the nearby Vaughan Enterprise Zone, a major employment hub at the western border of the city that is home to nearly 17,000 jobs and major employers such as Canadian Pacific Rail, FedEx, Home Depot, Sobey’s, and Adidas Canada, with plans to expand to 60,000 jobs and 5.3 million ft² of employment space upon full build-out.

At the north end of the city, Mackenzie Health recently opened in 2021, and aside from being a major employer in the city, it is also Vaughan’s first hospital and Canada’s first smart technology hospital. Planned major transportation investments will also facilitate the sustained success and growth of Vaughan, including the proposed extension of the TTC’s Yonge subway line into Richmond Hill providing subway access to the east end of Vaughan, and the recently completed extension of Highway 427 in the west end of the city that benefits the expansion of the Vaughan Enterprise Zone.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITView of several completed SmartVMC buildings, image courtesy of SmartLiving

Park Place is poised to benefit from the continued growth and success of Vaughan, and is well-located at the heart of the largest development node in the city. With a high-quality design, a convenient location, and an established and growing vibrant community, Park Place represents a smart investment choice for purchasers. With many more phases to come at SmartVMC that will bring plenty of new office space, restaurants, retail, community spaces, and public spaces within arm’s reach, Park Place will be a convenient and dynamic place to call home for many years to come.

Quality Design One of Many Highlights of Park Place at SmartVMC

Source: UrbanToronto

Two new towers are set to rise in Vaughan Metropolitan Centre with Park Place Condos, representing the next phase of SmartVMC’s master plan by SmartLiving, SmartCentres REIT’s residential sub-brand. The pair of 48- and 56-storey towers are designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects and will add to a growing skyline around the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre transit hub. The development includes a total of 1,100 residential units along with more than 10,000 ft² of urban retail space at ground level.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering looking east toward Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The towers sport a curvy, elegant design from Hariri Pontarini, with horizontal fins wrapping the podium that create a linear motif which continues up the tower as fritted glass. This attention to detail is not just limited to the exterior, however, with Hariri Pontarini also designing the building interiors with the same elevated, contemporary aesthetic.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITClose-up rendering of Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The suites come in a variety of types and sizes, ranging from 480 to over 1,100 ft² and from one to three bedrooms. Along with the range of options, each suite features 9-foot-high smooth ceilings; floor-to-ceiling windows with roller blinds included; a balcony; and windows in each bedroom. The layouts are efficiently organized to maximize the usable interior space, with an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living room that allows for plenty of natural light and flexibility.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITFloor plan of typical south tower floor plate, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

Suite interiors feature high-quality finishes that are durable, comfortable, and offer a luxurious feel to the space. The bathrooms in particular are meticulously designed with modern finishes, including porcelain tile floors and floor-to-ceiling tiled walls in the wet areas. The showers and tubs are glass-enclosed and come with a rain showerhead, features that are not typically standard in most condos. The toilet is water-efficient, and a modern sink with stone countertop complements the aesthetic of the space.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of a typical bathroom, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The main living area and bedrooms feature resilient LVP flooring for a warm, inviting look that is comfortable on the feet and also highly durable and scratch-resistant. The kitchen includes solid surface countertops which accent the living space and a full-slab backsplash, synonymous with luxury interior design, that offers a clean look free of grout lines, making it easy to maintain. Integrated appliances offer a streamlined look, seamlessly blending in with the cabinetry for an aesthetically-pleasing appearance that is also efficient and space-saving.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of a condo unit at Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

Residents can choose from two standard designer-chosen colour palettes for the interior finishes, offering customization without having to hire an interior designer. Fixtures come in either black and gold to complement the elevated design of the interiors.

Units are also equipped with smart capabilities such as touch-free entry and smart thermostats, all of which can be accessed through app integration.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of a condo unit at Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The building also features a host of new amenities located on the second and third floors of the podium. These include a fitness area with yoga and wellness spaces and a cycle lab; a lounge and games room; and a large outdoor terrace, complete with landscaping, seating areas, and an outdoor cooking area. WiFi will also be available in all common areas.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of the fitness room, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

SmartVMC’s much-awaited luxurious condos just launched & here’s a first-look

Source: Curiocity

One of Vaughan Metropolitan Centre’s (VMC) largest developers, SmartCentres, just announced the launch of their newest offering- the much-awaited, luxury condos, Park Place. And registrations for bookings are now open. YAY, indeed!

The project featuring two high-rises will tower over the Highway 7-Jane Street intersection. It’s part of SmartCentres’ pedestrian-focused, transit-connected and master-planned community, SmartVMC. The 100-acre community at the core of DT Vaughan is now an urban cultural hub, commerce centre and recreational hotspot brimming with modern conveniences.

Park Place
Photo via SmartVMC

SmartVMC quite literally brings the best of both worlds together. On the one hand, you have the downtown lifestyle with everything you need for a quality life- live, work and play- within walking distance. On the other hand, you have the suburban luxury of green spaces and a community vibe.

The community boasts of a retail centre, a YMCA, a library, daycare, new office spaces and top employers like KPMG, PwC, Miller Thomson, GFL, etc. Plus, it’s centrally located and well-connected with the VMC Subway station and the VIVA station a 5-minute walk away. And of course, you have highways 401 and 407 a quick drive away.

The 9-acre Central Park-style park that runs through the middle is a highlight of the community. And Park Place is adjacent to this green beauty. Meaning, all 1,100 residences here will have a massive manicured greenscape for a backyard.

Park Place
Photo via SmartVMC

Now, here’s the thing— Park Place doesn’t piggyback on the community’s conveniences alone. Of course, the highly urban lifestyle is what’s piquing the interest of the whole of GTA. But the skyscraper comes with its own merits that promise a refined luxury experience.

The building has a classy modern vibe with lush interiors,  upscale finishes, custom cabinetry, modern appliances, floor-to-ceiling windows and large balconies. And it has all the amenities you’d expect- a world-class fitness centre with a yoga room and wellness spa, an outdoor kitchen, party room and co-working spaces among others.

Then there are the smart features like smart building controls, smart thermostats, keyless door entry, a building app and WiFi in all common areas. 

TBH, we get now what the whole buzz was about and why everyone we know seems to be flocking to VMC. C’mon, who can resist that urban DT lifestyle minus the compromises?

Anyway, here’s the Park Place website in case you need more deets on the project.

Introducing Park Place: The Newest Opportunity to Own Luxury Living by the Park

Launching this month, Park Place Condominiums exemplifies refined luxury right in the heart of the SmartVMC, one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities.

Source: YorkRegion.com

Park Place, two highly anticipated residential towers situated at the intersection of highways 7 and 400, is the latest project and the next phase of SmartVMC development by SmartLiving, SmartCentres’ residential arm. This exciting 100+ acre master-planned community anchored by a central park is an excellent opportunity for couples, families and young business professionals to live in style, with well-appointed units and unparalleled amenities in a great location.

What sets this development apart? For one thing, it’s a uniquely connected transit hub, with the SmartVMC bus terminal, connecting residents and visitors to other parts of York Region. SmartVMC is also home to the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre TTC subway, taking residents to downtown Toronto’s Union Station in under 45 minutes. By transit, residents can be at York University in about five minutes, and Yorkdale in 15 minutes. Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre and Canada’s Wonderland are also minutes away. No matter where you’re going, it’s easy to get there by transit — or by car, due to its proximity to highway 7 and the 400-series highways.

Ground Level

Park Place is within walking distance of world-class employers in SmartVMC such as KMPG, PwC, Miller Thomson, GFL and more. Also close by for residents are community offerings including a brand new, state-of-the-art YMCA recreational facility, the Vaughan Public Library, a local daycare centre, major banks and popular retailers.

Directly adjacent to Park Place and at the heart of SmartVMC will be a nine-acre central park, that will provide an abundance of walking and cycling trails, a sunken lawn for picnics and play, an off-leash dog park and a children’s play zone. Planned as a landmark destination for residents and visitors, the park will be designed by Claude Cormier + Associés, award-winning designers of well-known Toronto destinations like Sugar Beach, Berczy Park, Love Park and the Leslie Slip Lookout Park.

Interiors and exteriors by award-winning architectural firm Hariri Pontarini have been thoughtfully designed focusing on preserving principal views and maximizing access to sunlight and sky views.

Exterior

The buildings themselves are rich in amenities and appointments. Park Place is comprised of two prestigious towers, 48 and 56 storeys, housing 1,100 residential suites, that are connected by a three-storey podium. Over 40,000 square feet of shared amenities include curated retail space on the ground level, a fitness centre with yoga, a cycle lab and wellness spaces, and a lounge with a games room that spills out to a generous outdoor living room. There is also an outdoor kitchen, co-working space, a bike repair workshop, a kid’s playroom and party room.

Smart capabilities include Wi-Fi connections in all common areas, smart thermostats and building controls, keyless door entry, and a building app for booking amenities and common areas. The buildings have a strong health focus, with secure touch-free building and suite access and other touchless points designed to reduce virus and bacteria transfer. There is also 24-hour concierge and security.

Interior

In-suite details include smooth finished ceilings, approximately nine feet high in principal rooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Kitchens feature contemporary custom cabinetry, under-cabinet lighting, single-slab porcelain backsplash options, wall-mounted appliances and in select suites, a kitchen island. Bathrooms have porcelain floor tiles, custom vanities with undermount white porcelain sinks, wall-mounted mirrors, and brushed gold or black fixtures and finishes. Spacious balconies are perfect for entertaining.

Backed by more than 30 years of experience, SmartLiving leverages an in-house team of land development experts to drive all residential initiatives across SmartCentres’ communities coast to coast. Park Place Condominiums launches this month, so register now at theparkplacecondos.ca.

These soaring condos in Vaughan’s trendy downtown area are coming to market

Source: BlogTO

Always fancied the high-flying skyscraper life and thinking about investing in that dream home soon? Then you’re in luck because Park Place Condos, the highly-anticipated towers in the burgeoning SmartVMC, are available now.

SmartLiving, SmartCentres’ residential brand, is responsible for the new development which has a lot to get excited about. Park Place Condos blends urban luxury and natural beauty perfectly.

place park condos

After all, it’s located in SmartVMC, SmartCentres’ master-planned 100+ acre community located in the heart of Vaughan’s emerging downtown area. Which means that nearby amenities include a brand new state-of-the-art YMCA recreational facility and Vaughan Public Library, trendy urban restaurants and many more everyday conveniences.

At the same time, residents will enjoy a prime location overlooking SmartVMC’s future nine-acre central park (which is what influenced the property’s Park Place name).

park place condosThis sprawling green space has been designed by award-winning landscape designers Claude Cormier + Associés – and features everything from cycling trails and a sunken lawn to an off-leash dog park and children’s play zone.

Designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects, Park Place features two towers –48 and 56 storeys – connected by a three-storey podium. 

It looks posh and modern, with the towers designed to maximize access to natural light. Some cool high-tech elements include Wi-Fi in the common areas, touch-free entry, smart thermostats, and even a building app.

Inside, the apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies for residents to enjoy the views. Efficient kitchens include built-in refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, ovens, and a kitchen island in select suites. 

park place condosYou can even expect some swanky elements in the washroom – we’re talking porcelain floor-tiles, a custom designed vanity and brushed gold or black fixtures.

Meanwhile, the 40,000+ square feet of amenities within the building are everything you’d expect and more: a fitness centre with yoga, a cycle lab and wellness spaces; lounge with a games room; an outdoor kitchen; co-working space; a bike repair workshop; kids’ playroom; a party room; and over 10,000 square feet of retail space. Chances are you wouldn’t need to step outside the building if you really didn’t want to.

But when you do head outside, you can be rest assured that you’re well connected to Toronto and the GTA. The property is just steps away from Vaughan Metropolitan Centre TTC as well as the SmartVMC Bus Terminal and VIVA – Commerce Street station. You can get to Union Station via the subway in under 45 minutes!

park place condosThere are currently one-bedroom, one-bedroom-plus-den, two-bedroom and premium two-bedroom apartments on sale. But word is that the suites will be swept up pretty quickly, so you should book a viewing of Park Place sooner rather than later if you’re looking to secure a spot.

Here’s why Park Place Condos is the community of the future

The SmartLiving community keeps you connected in more ways than one

Source: Toronto Life

In a fast-paced world like ours, today’s best communities exist at the nexus of innovation and accessibility. Located along Jane Street at Highway 7 in bustling downtown Vaughan, SmartVMC’s luxury Park Place Condos is the latest community to bring state-of-the-art technology with incredible design thanks to SmartLiving—the commercial giant SmartCentres’ wholly-owned residential brand. Standing at 48 and 56 storeys, two towers will boast 1100 residential suites overlooking the newly-planned SmartVMC Central Park. 

In a world that saw a growing need for community spaces, SmartLiving focuses on creative living around public squares, parks and green spaces that prioritize walkability and transit access. Combining the best of retail and residential planning, Park Place offers access to curated amenities like a fully-equipped fitness centre, a bike lab, an outdoor BBQ and more. Beyond that, masterplan features include convenient access to a state-of-the-art YMCA recreational facility, local daycares, the Vaughan Public Library and a newly planned nine-acre park and over 10,000 square feet of curated retail space. Located in one of the city’s fastest grown areas, here’s why Park Place Condos places residents squarely in the future.

Get There Faster

Located across from the SmartVMC regional bus station and only 450m west of Vaughan Metropolitan Centre TTC Subway station, residents have prime access to not only connections to Markham, Richmond Hill and Newmarket but also to the city’s downtown core, Toronto Pearson International Airport and multiple major intersections; with most commutes clocking in at under an hour. By car, residents are only minutes away from Highway 7 and the 400-series highways.

Bring the outside in

Another of the community’s key features is its focus on communal outdoor spaces for all residents to enjoy. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities for new families and young business professionals, the future nine-acre park will feature cycling trails, a sunken lawn for picnics, a children’s play zone and an off-leash dog park. Directly adjacent, Park Place will have breathtaking views overlooking SmartVMC’s Central Park, epitomizing the notion of Luxury by the Park.

Modern Design

Envisioned by Toronto-based Hariri Pontarini Architects, Park Place Condos are thoughtfully designed with luxury finishes for maximum comfort while keeping optimal skyline views and sunlight in mind. Ranging from 477 to 1100 square feet, units are available in one, two and three-bedroom varieties. 

Each unit features smooth finished nine-foot ceilings, bright floor-to-ceiling windows, modern kitchen finishes like single slab porcelain backsplash, a gorgeous island for extra counter space in select suites, black or brushed gold fixtures in the bathroom and spacious, family-friendly balconies perfect for entertaining.

Smart controls

The standout feature of this community is the smart controls throughout the community, allowing residents to stay connected in more ways than one. The best of the community is at your fingertips, from keyless entry for added security, smart thermostats inside suites, and a mobile app to book amenities like co-working spaces, outdoor kitchens, and party rooms. Common areas around the building also boast hi-speed WiFi access, so you can work and play no matter where within the community you happen to be.

Health-Focused Building

If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s the importance of building and curating healthier spaces and homes. At Park Place, residents can enjoy a secure, touch-free main entrance and suite access designed to reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses and enjoy amenities that promote a healthier lifestyle.

With three decades of experience under their belt, SmartLiving’s team of experts has worked to ensure the SmartVMC community brings work, play, and innovative design together in one place. 

SmartLiving Launching Newest Phase of SmartVMC: Park Place Condos

Source: UrbanToronto

Just east of Highway 400, a new cluster of towers is quickly rising as the SmartVMC neighbourhood takes shape, marking a more urban future for the city of Vaughan.  The new 100+ acre city centre is continuing to evolve with SmartLiving, SmartCentres REIT’s residential sub brand, launching sales for the next phase of SmartVMC, Park Place Condos. The two-tower development, named for its prime location overlooking SmartVMC’s 9-acre central park, is located at the northeast corner of Highway 7 and Commerce Street, and will rise to heights of 48 and 56 storeys with 1,100 residential units.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REIT
Rendering looking east toward Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving 

The gently curving towers are designed by award-winning firm Hariri Pontarini Architects and will create a new gateway to the SmartVMC community. The building also includes over 10,000 square feet of retail and a new public plaza at ground level.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of the plaza and retail at ground level, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The towers join a bourgeoning SmartVMC community that has established itself as the urban heart of Vaughan. Park Place will be directly adjacent to the new 9-acre central park, designed by renowned landscape architects Claude Cormier + Associés, which is the centrepiece of the neighbourhood that will become a big backyard for all residents to enjoy. The first phase of the park begins construction later this year. Park Place also boasts excellent transit connectivity, as it is located directly adjacent to the Commerce Street stop on the Highway 7 BRT line, and is a short walk away from the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre TTC subway station and regional bus terminal. Within walking distance in the transit-oriented VMC community, there is also new office space, retail, and a brand new state-of-the-art YMCA that opened its doors to the public last week.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of Park Place from the VMC central park, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

SmartLiving considers Park Place to be their highest level of refined living in SmartVMC to date, offering elevated design and high-quality finishes in their residences. Condo units in the building come in a wide variety of sizes and configurations, ranging from 470 square feet to more than 1,100 square feet, and from one to three bedrooms. Residents can choose from different options for finishes and layouts to select the home that is right for them. Every unit comes with a balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows, smooth 9-foot ceilings, and windows in every bedroom.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of a condo unit at Park Place, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The building also comes with a host of new amenities located on the second and third floors of the podium. These include a fitness area with yoga and wellness spaces and a cycle lab; a lounge and games room; and a large outdoor terrace, complete with landscaping, seating areas, and an outdoor cooking area. The building is also being designed as a smart building, with Wi-Fi available in all common areas, and features such as touch-free entry, smart thermostats, and app integration.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITRendering of the fitness room, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The design of Park Place is also unique, with Hariri Pontarini Architects crafting both the exterior and interior design of the building. Fins wrap the podium of the towers, creating a linear motif that is carried through a trellis that wraps around the ground level plaza and up the towers themselves using fritted glass. The final result is a unique aesthetic that stands out among the SmartVMC skyline.

Park Place Condos, SmartVMC, Hariri Pontarini Architects, Vaughan, SmartLiving, SmartCentres REITClose-up rendering of the exterior facade, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

Refined luxury condos in burgeoning Vaughan Metropolitan Centre

SmartVMC, one of Canada’s fastest growing communities for couples, families and young business professionals, introduces Park Place Condominiums.

Source: Thestar

In the centre of the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) at Jane Street and Highway 7 is the SmartVMC, a mixed-use development of residential living combined with such amenities as a state-of-the-art YMCA recreational facility, the Vaughan Public Library, world-class employment and outstanding greenspaces. In the heart of the development, SmartVMC will feature two highly anticipated new residential towers situated next to a newly planned nine-acre park, which will be the new downtown centre of Vaughan.

Park Place is a residential condominium project and the next phase of SmartVMC development by SmartLiving, SmartCentres REIT’s residential development arm. “No other development in York Region is quite like SmartVMC because it is a transit hub,” explains Director of Sales Alan Law. “We have one of only two TTC subway stops in the 905 area in the heart of the development. We also have the SmartVMC regional bus terminal that connects most of York Region, from Brampton to Markham and from Aurora and Newmarket to downtown. Whether you’re heading to a smaller community beyond the business district or downtown Toronto, there’s an easy way to get there by transit, or by car because you’re minutes away from Highway 7 and the 400-series highways.”

The development is also five minutes from York University, 15 minutes from Yorkdale, 35 minutes from University of Toronto and under 45 minutes to Union Station. “There are several triple A employers with offices on site at SmartVMC — KPMG, PwC, SmartCentres’ Home Office, Harley Davidson and all the major banks, to name a few,” adds Law. Canada’s first smart hospital, Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre and Canada’s Wonderland are also nearby.

SmartVMC’s centrepiece will be the spectacular nine-acre park, designed by award-winning Claude Cormier + Associés. “The park will be a landmark destination, designed for the benefit of residents and visitors,” says Law. Park amenities include cycling trails, a sunken lawn for picnics and play, an off-leash dog park and a children’s play zone.

Located at the northeast corner of Highway 7 and the newly constructed Commerce Street, Park Place will be defined by refined luxury and world-class architecture. Two exquisite towers, 48 and 56 storeys, will be connected by a three-storey podium, with 1,100 residential suites overlooking the SmartVMC park. Award-winning architectural firm Hariri Pontarini has designed the exterior to be visually exceptional, “sculpting each tower by using distinctive ‘fins’ that create a stepped silhouette,” says Law. The towers are oriented to preserve views and maximize access to light.

The ground floor will be a retail plaza and public promenade. The second and third floors of the podium will include a fitness area with a gym, yoga and wellness spaces, a children’s play area, co-working space, a lounge, games room, cycle lab, and indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Individual units will range from 477 to 1,100 square feet, in a variety of one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts. Each suite has floor-to-ceiling windows, smooth nine-foot ceilings, luxury vinyl flooring and a balcony off the living room. Kitchens will feature full-slab backsplashes and wall-mounted appliances; kitchens and baths have Corian countertops and a selection of designer features. Several designs include kitchen islands and walk-in closets. “There is a wide variety of suite designs to provide something to suit every buyer,” says Law. Smart capabilities include Wi-Fi connections in all common areas, smart thermostats, keyless door entry, secure touch-free building and suite access and other touch-free points designed to reduce virus and bacteria transfer.

Backed by more than 30 years of experience, SmartLiving leverages an in-house team of land development experts to drive all residential initiatives across SmartCentres’ communities coast-to-coast. Their flagship SmartVMC is a 100-acre+ master-planned community that incorporates connectivity, convenience, open-space, art and culture, and world-class architecture. Park Place Condominiums launches in spring 2022.

SmartCentres’ mixed use art district in the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre

Source: World Architecture News

The first phase of ArtWalk includes three residential buildings within walking distance of transit, urban amenities and a 9 acre park, with Hariri Pontarini Architects behind the architecture and interiors

Plans for the next block of SmartCentres’ 100 acre, 20 million sq ft SmartVMC city centre have been revealed. The ArtWalk district will include a block of mixed use developments, by SmartLiving, SmartCentres’ residential development brand. 

Bordered by Portage Parkway to the north and Apple Mill Road to the south, ArtWalk will be developed in four phases, the first with 38 storey and 18 storey towers on top of a shared podium, alongside a six storey mixed use residence building with retail at grade. 

Hariri Pontarini Architects’ plan calls for a variety of heights, floorplates, and suite sizes to accommodate the residents anticipated for the community. The architecture utilises natural materials and colour palettes, creating variation between the buildings, while crafting a striking skyline.

The project’s amenity rich programming offers residents outdoor terraces with gardens, an outdoor movie area, intimate lounge seating with firepits, as well as outdoor dining space with BBQs. An indoor outdoor childrens’ play area will be offered, as well as a 2,500 sq ft co-working space facing the courtyard.

The double height co-working space features neutral tones and a community café. A spiral staircase leads to a reading lounge with a range of spaces that can be used for quiet time or chatting up with friends.

A shared courtyard is framed by common areas and amenities to encourage activity along the ground floor and build a sense of community. All residents will have access to the amenities in the development, offered across the three buildings.

Designed as a future ready building, WiFi will be offered in all common areas, amenities can be booked via a mobile app and suites will include smart thermostats and keyless entry. 

ArtWalk is located across the street from TTC subway access, the SmartVMC Bus Terminal, and provides access to Highways 400 and 7 within minutes.

SmartCentres Proposes Landmark High Rise at Yonge and Wellington

Source: UrbanToronto

A new tower is set to rise at Yonge and Wellington that will grace the skyline of Toronto’s growing Financial District. SmartLiving, the residential sub brand of SmartCentres REIT, is proposing a redevelopment at 49-51 Yonge Street. Currently home to a restaurant and offices, the pair of heritage buildings will be preserved and transformed into the base of a new 60-storey mixed-use tower designed by architects–Alliance.

49-51 Yonge Street, SmartCentres REIT, architects–Alliance, SmartLiving, GBCA Architects, Toronto
Close-up of the base of the tower, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The proposed building will contain over 1,700m² of commercial office space located on Levels 2 through 5, a slight increase from the existing commercial space currently on the site. The residential portion of the tower above will contain 258 condominium units in a variety of sizes, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Amenity spaces are proposed for the 6th, 21st, and 22nd floors, including a pair of outdoor terraces on the 22nd level. Given the site’s transit connectivity — situated between King and Union TTC subway stations and close to GO transit lines — and its Yonge Street location, there are no vehicular parking spaces proposed in the development; however, 284 bicycle spaces will be provided on two below-grade levels, promoting a more sustainable mode of transit for residents.

Heritage plays a prominent role in the proposal with an emphasis on the relationship between the new tower and its heritage base. Currently existing on the site are two heritage buildings: 49 Yonge, a 4-storey office building with a ground-floor restaurant constructed in 1875; and 51 Yonge, a 4-storey office building constructed in 1847. Focusing first and foremost on preservation, protection, and enhancement of the heritage, the team is committed to redefining a landmark property that is recognizable both on the ground and in the skyline. Both buildings’ exterior elements will be retained as part of the development, and both have informed the design of the new tower rising above.

49-51 Yonge Street, SmartCentres REIT, architects–Alliance, SmartLiving, GBCA Architects, Toronto
Context map, image courtesy of SmartLiving (Mapview data from Google LLC).

Working with heritage specialist GBCA Architects, the heritage exteriors will be carefully restored in situ, with the limestone cladding, decorative metal, and intricate woodwork cleaned, repaired, and replicated where necessary. The mansard roofs will be preserved, with the existing asphalt shingles replaced with more historically accurate slate shingles. Minor alterations are proposed to increase accessibility at the building entrances, and most notably on the east facade, where a one-metre widening of the laneway is proposed to facilitate safe access for loading and garbage. On the interiors, though, it is still early in the design process, SmartLiving has indicated their intent to restore and preserve the remaining heritage features, including the pressed tin ceilings, columns, and plaster and stone moldings.

architectsAlliance have taken the approach that while the design of the new tower should be contemporary and stand out, it should also be informed and influenced by the heritage structures at its base. The one proposed alteration to the heritage exterior, on the ground level along the east laneway, will be to reimagine the entrance, finished in a different material that will contrast yet complement the limestone facades. “It’s a challenge to resolve some of the complexities of a site like this one, balancing the character and beauty of the [heritage buildings] with the client’s need to achieve the occupancy of the site,” states Blair Robinson, Project Architect at architects—Alliance. “As architects, we always feel like we’re in a conversation with our predecessors.”

49-51 Yonge Street, SmartCentres REIT, architects–Alliance, SmartLiving, GBCA Architects, TorontoFrontage along Wellington Street, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

The massing and form of the proposed tower is intended to spotlight the heritage buildings. The fifth and sixth floors, just above the heritage structures’ roofs, are set back from the property line and are clad with transparent glass to allow the existing heritage exteriors to maintain their presence and character at street level. Eleven metres above that, the tower projects back out above the heritage buildings and is finished with glass and bronze-coloured panels, with the massing punctuated by setbacks at the 22nd floor where the outdoor terraces are located.

49-51 Yonge Street, SmartCentres REIT, architects–Alliance, SmartLiving, GBCA Architects, TorontoView of 49-51 Yonge looking northeast, image courtesy of SmartLiving.

49-51 Yonge is located directly next to another 60-storey tower proposal at 55 Yonge. SmartLiving has initiated discussions with the development team next door to coordinate the design of the two towers for an integrated redeveloped block that enhances the neighbourhood, preserves the heritage components at street level, and adds striking new architecture to Toronto’s maturing skyline.