Why can't more of this be done in key historic neighbourhoods in the city? It's looks fairly simple to do and shouldn't be too expensive. And it avoids that ugly faux look that you get with precast concrete pseudo-historical buildings such as French Quarter. Love it!
Those images above speak volumes. Imagine how cool St. Lawrence would be today if most of the original buildings would have been retained? God, I despise the urban renewal of the modern era. Thankfully, a lot of those dreadful errors are being corrected.
Will there be any of the old church elements in the interior? If not, what a waste. Look at Abbey Lofts to see how it should be done.
http://www.torontolofts.ca/toronto_lofts_press_4.html
You're not alone or a freak. There's not only the historical significance, but it's important to remember the most vibrant streets in cities around the world are lined with old narrow lowrise buildings. This is virtually universal. We already have a bland, sterile street lined with concrete...
Nice work, wyliepoon... but I do think those images illustrate what a detriment this project would be for the street level. A bland and boring megablock. In particular, the loss of the 1915 Anderson building is worth mourning.
Thumbs down to this thing. We're losing a very pleasant urban block with a nice streetwall for a jumbled, but trendy, mess. Build it on a parking lot, but don't sacrifice this block for that.
This is the first I'm hearing of this restoration and I'm thrilled. I've admired this neglected little beauty for years and was convinced that it would be facing the wrecking ball soon due to neglect or "progress".
Toronto Trump Tower’s design is controlled but sexy
http://www.yourhome.ca/homes/decor/article/1148655--toronto-trump-tower-s-design-is-controlled-but-sexy
Oooh, this is exciting. A big tower along Toronto's main drag and restoration of at least one of those two neglected historic beauties. The tower itself looks great, and the glassy portion between the two heritage buildings is a very appropriate way to treat that space. Hopefully the quality...