Condo Pro: Condos A Showpiece For Art And Science

By Barbara Lawlor

The breadth and beauty of the condominiums offered across the Greater Toronto Area is astounding. We are seeing dramatic silhouettes on our skylines, some modern, others contemporary with heritage aspects of existing buildings being preserved, and yet others designed with traditional architecture. In addition, we are privileged to have some of the world’s most gifted architects and developers working on these residences, and the results are phenomenal.

I am even more amazed at the complexity of the design and construction of these remarkable buildings. The general public sees the results in renderings, models and eventually the condominiums themselves as they rise. But few consumers understand the levels of collaboration that occur in order for condo designs to go forward. In addition to architectural and engineering realities to deal with, there are municipal regulations and approvals.

Condominium creation is as much a science as an art, and the “look” of the exteriors is, in my experience, what drives 25 per cent of their sales. In fact, studies have shown that statistic as 29 per cent! Condo shoppers want their home to reflect their personality, and that is what architecture does. People actually have an emotional response to the exteriors of buildings. And frankly, purchasers look for an exterior that will enhance the value of their suites – one that has timeless architecture that will still look good decades into the future. Our architects and developers are creating breathtaking condominiums that attract the appropriate target markets and will age beautifully.

It is no understatement at all that the variety of styles available today offers something for everyone. Choices range from boutique to mid-rise and high-rise buildings that elevate streetscapes and neighbourhoods. We see point towers, groupings of lower buildings clustered around a courtyard, condos with townhomes and/or commercial and retail venues at the base, residences that are stepped back from the street to allow for a more intimate relationship with pedestrians … the scope is incredible. And all of these condominiums contribute to Toronto and the 905 areas taking their places in the world as desirable places to live on an international scale.

Several years ago, I visited Portugal, and I remember standing in the lobby of a hotel where a coffee-table book on urban skylines from around the world was on display. Inside, I found a photo of Toronto, and I was taken by how beautiful it was in comparison. Certainly, Toronto holds its own with the striking skylines of other cosmopolitan cities around the globe, and our growing 905 areas are following suit.

When you consider height restrictions, shadow studies, setbacks, zoning, public art, landscaping, structural loads, cantilevers, parking facilities, suite configurations, elevators, lobby, amenities … the number and diversity of practical components our developers and architects have to consider is awesome. It is a tribute to their ingenuity, creativity and advanced knowledge that in the face of this complexity, they still manage to create fabulous exteriors for these vertical communities. At end of the day, these beautiful buildings have a real impact on their residents, their surroundings and our extraordinary skyline.

Barbara Lawlor is president of Baker Real Estate Incorporated and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com