Yonge + Rich, a new development at Yonge and Richmond, with the at-once awkward and unimaginative name, actually looks quite promising. Its 50 stories won't be intrusive on the landscape in that part of the downtown, since it's already all highrise. And pricing starts at $289,990, a reasonable sum for city-style "home" ownership.
At the same time, the lobby kind of looks like a jail (or a bank), and the washrooms look pretty HoJo. But then these are early renderings — the development won't be ready for occupation until sometime around summer, 2018. And even if there are dreary common areas and washrooms, this building looks like it has top points in the quality of life department. The terraces look amazing, as do the views from said terraces. Apparently I'm easily bought by outdoor space, but I really don't care. Call me what you want, but I want to breathe in the smog from the relative privacy of my own home, thanks.
SPECS
Address: 25 Richmond St. Floors: 50 Total number of units: N/A Types of units: N/A Unit sizes (in square feet): 450 to 926 Ceiling heights: 8'5" to 9'0" Starting prices for available units: $289,990 Developer: Great Gulf Amenities/building features: 24 hour concierge, rooftop deck, swimming pool, fitness centre, lounge.
The developers have one thing right: attention to the need for green space.
"Unlike many condo roof gardens, there are actually garden terraces on all sides of the building, accessed from the different lounges and gathering spaces on the amenity level," said John Hillier, the project's landscape architect. "In some cases, the glazed walls essentially fold back allowing the interiors to extend seamlessly to the roof gardens when the weather permits."
So, essentially, it's like living in the jungle. What could be more awesome?
The location is a plus here, too. If you're looking for hectic downtown living, this development is in an ideal location. It's also ideal if you're a shopaholic, as you can pretty much walk out your front door and into the glorious Eaton Centre. It's a 6 minute walk to the St. Lawrence Market, across the street from a great coffee spot, and snuggled in beside noteworthy restaurants like Richmond Station, Terroni on Adelaide, and theGabardine.
