Judy Lamelza
Special to Ontario Construction News
Toronto’s Port Lands is poised for a major transformation with a proposed mixed-use development at 115 Saulter St. S.
Led by Castlepoint Numa and designed by COBE Architects, this ambitious project will feature dual high-rise residential towers and cutting-edge production studio spaces.
Project overview
- Location: 115 Saulter St. S., Port Lands, Toronto
- Developer: Castlepoint Numa
- Architect: COBE Architects
- Scope: Mixed-use development with residential units, retail spaces, and production studios
- Total Area: 79,060 sq. m. (Residential: 73,650 sq. m., Non-residential: 5,410m²)
- Residential Units: 1,300 new units
The project includes clearing the existing warehouse on-site, likely involving demolition and excavation. This initial phase will require skilled labor for demolition, excavation, and laying a solid foundation for the high-rise towers.
Superstructure construction
According to Urban Toronto, the project will feature two towers, one reaching 40 stories (125 meters) and the other 45 stories (140 meters), both rising from a shared seven-story podium. This phase will involve extensive steel and concrete work, focusing on high-rise construction techniques. Construction tasks will include assembling steel frameworks, pouring concrete for floors and walls, and installing major building systems.
A notable aspect of this project is the 3,330 sq. m. allocated to Production, Interactive, and Creative (PIC) uses. These flexible “black box” studios will support Toronto’s booming film industry. Building these studios will require expertise in creating acoustically optimized environments, advanced lighting setups, and versatile interior layouts.
The development will include 2,080 sq. m. of street-level retail space within the podium, designed to engage the community and provide amenities and services to residents and visitors. Construction workers will focus on creating inviting, accessible retail environments with high-quality finishes.
The development will feature a two-level underground garage with 175 spaces for residents, 15 for visitors, and 26 for PIC uses. Additionally, extensive bicycle parking facilities will be provided, with 1,170 long-term and 286 short-term spaces. This phase will involve complex underground construction, ensuring safety and accessibility.
Architectural design
The buildings will have a modern aesthetic with sleek lines and large glass surfaces. The seven-story podium will unify the towers, housing retail and community spaces. The design aims to create a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, and creative spaces, fostering a vibrant urban environment.
Economic and community impact
The construction of this development is expected to create numerous jobs, providing significant economic benefits. From initial site preparation to final interior finishes, the project will require a diverse workforce, including general laborers, skilled tradespeople, project managers, and specialized technicians.
Beyond immediate job creation, the project will contribute to the long-term revitalization of the Port Lands. The new residential units will help address housing shortages, while the retail and production spaces will stimulate economic activity and community engagement.
The mixed-use development represents a significant opportunity for construction workers in Toronto. With its blend of residential units, retail spaces, and production studios, the project promises to transform the Port Lands into a vibrant urban hub.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project: 115 Saulter Street South Mixed Use Development Central Waterfront – Toronto (0030052424).
Judy Lamelza writes the DataBid.com blog.