Frank Gehry reveals new photos of his first residential tower in Canada
Great Gulf Group, Dream and Westdale Properties have revealed bids for Frank Gehry’s latest architecture in Toronto, Canada. Set to leave a mark on the city skyline, formThe architect’s first residential tower in Canada and its tallest building to date rises to 73 floors and features a thoughtfully designed lobby by Gehry along with a stunning custom art installation that reflects his visual approach, Plus interiors by international design studio Paolo Ferrari.
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Forma’s design will define the urban space along King Street and Duncan Street in Toronto, creating a new visual dynamism and movement on the horizon. The relationship between the volumes of the surrounding buildings, as well as the space between the towers, as spectators move around the site changes, creating an effect that is further amplified by the choice of materials and the geometry of the facade. The resulting visible fluidity becomes more dynamic throughout the day due to the sun’s reflection on the metal.
Since the architect was born in Toronto, it has been important for Forma’s design to honor some of the buildings that were important to him while growing up, such as Old City Hall, where the architectural definition and texture of the sandstone helped create an air of appeal. This has inspired the design of the facade as well as the lobby, which is inspired by the Group of Seven and the relationships between the landscape and the identity of Canada.
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I’m traditional in Toronto, because I remember Osgoode Hall, University Avenue, Parliament Buildings, and the Royal York Hotel. There’s a sense of Toronto that I had as a kid, and I wanted that to be in the DNA of our design. Every city in the world has its own light and the light is modified by the buildings in the city. I wanted this building to capture the essence of Toronto. Not like anywhere else. The light is different. Heritage is different. It’s a different place. I hope this is what people see when they search. – Frank Gehry, Gehry Partners LLP
The choice of materials for the East Tower lobby provides a counterpoint to the tower’s stainless steel with curved wood furniture and details, complete with limestone cladding on the walls and floors. The ceiling is dominated by a sculptural installation designed by Gehry’s design team, and presents a shimmering motif of maple leaves that can be seen from the street. Following the same vocabulary for the facade, alternating metal and glass blinds wrap the corners of both towers at street level, maximizing the public realm with an active street facade by providing coverage for potential future commercial tenants.
The rest of the interior was designed by Studio Paolo Ferrari, who provided designs that served as a metaphor for the city. The interiors strike a balance between the spaces that feel lively with the serene others. Amenity spaces throughout the tower highlight the importance of a user-centric approach, reflecting how future residents will live in and use the spaces. Rather than focusing on amenities in one area of the building, spaces are grouped by theme and strategically located throughout, providing more intimate and accessible spaces. Hospitality and leisure facilities are grouped into the Grand Suite on 73research and development ground floor, taking advantage of panoramic views. The large suite features a chef’s kitchen, connecting entertainment rooms and an intimate theatre.
Creator’s Club features a multifunctional co-working space, which transforms from private and semi-private spaces to more open spaces for work and collaboration. The adjacent Maker’s Studio provides space for hands-on tasks, crafts and hobbies, while the soundproofed recording studio allows content creators to record podcasts or work on social media videos and other creations. The Health and Wellness Retreat features a spa, warm gray stone whirlpool, and sauna, which complement a warm and lively fitness studio complete with the latest equipment, including a dedicated spin room.