Construction moves towards the residential levels at The Residences of 488 University Avenue
Photos: James Bombales
The Residences of 488 University Avenue is getting closer to illuminating Toronto’s grand University Avenue promenade and skyline. Work on the 55-storey tower started early this year when developer Amexon began dismantling the concrete facade of the existing office building on the site. The 18-storey, 1960s-era building will be integrated into the project through major structural and visual enhancements that include new steel structural bracing, renovated interiors and a striking new glass facade. The residential portion will be built above the old structure and include the addition of 37 storeys of condominium suites and an amenities space.
To see the latest construction progress, BuzzBuzzNews took a stroll down to University Avenue to snap some photos of the action.
There’s been a lot of progress since we last visited the site and the most evident change is seen on the lower portion of the building. Gone are the concrete grill cladding and Brutalist-style facade which have been replaced by an all new, jewel-like glass skin designed by CORE Architects.
The recessed footprint of the old building enabled structural engineers to add vertical steel columns, horizontal perimeter steel beams, and cross bracing which can be seen through the windows. All of the extra structural work will help support the additional floors independently of the old office tower. With most of the lower section and office tower now behind its new glass skin, crews have moved onto upper part of the structure where the new residential floors will soon rise.
When completed in late 2017, the project will have a total of 453 residential units, hotel-like amenities, retail space and a signature restaurant in the podium. The renovated office building will continue to house office and commercial space and have a separate entryway from the residential entrance.
Inside, the development boasts luxuriously appointed interiors by renowned design firm II by IV Design, including over 30,000 square feet of amenities. That includes the two storey Sky Club with a resort-style spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a squash court, yoga studio, screening room and sun deck.
Located at the intersection of University Avenue and Dundas Street West, residents will be steps from a world of local amenities and entertainment venues at every direction. To the west sits Chinatown and the Art Gallery of Ontario, and to the east is the Eaton Centre. Travel northward and you’ll soon see the trendy shops of Yorkville or south to catch a show at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. In addition, getting to all of these places couldn’t be easier with nearby walking paths and public transportation options including direct access to the St. Patrick subway station and TTC streetcar.
To learn more about The Residences of 488 University Avenue, be sure to register online, and visit the presentation gallery located at 393 University Avenue, open seven days a week from 10am to 8pm.
