Past meets present in these iconic structures, addresses
Iconic structures often leave a lasting impact on both their surroundings and the communities they serve.
Here are some examples of such developments that have weathered the elements, the passage of time, and evolving trends globally. These residential projects offer a unique blend of historical architecture and modern living, while they continue to play a vital role in their communities.
Toy Factory Lofts
Toronto
The original building of what is known today as the Toy Factory Lofts was built in the early 20th century.
A bold building with a facade of thick brick walls, the Toy Factory Lofts stands out in Liberty Village as it exudes an industrial style, heritage-like character. It was a factory for the Irwin Toy Company before it was converted and launched in 2008 as a residential building by Lanterra Developments.
As the factories moved out of Liberty Village, condo developers moved in. Today, Liberty Village became one of Toronto’s best neighborhoods for young professionals, artists and creative types. Here, the Toy Factory Lofts remains an iconic example of warehouse-to-loft conversion. Designed by Quadrangle Architects, it retains many of the original building’s features—exposed steel ceiling beams, Douglas fir posts, and more.
Currently, Toy Factory Lofts offers impressive amenities including a 24-hour concierge and a bright indoor landscaped atrium, complete with overhead skylights, patterned floors, and matured trees.
15 Central Park West
New York City
The 15 Central Park West is a majestic pale limestone building that enhances its coveted New York City setting.
While built in 2007, this iconic residential building has a classical architectural style that exudes refinement and serenity. It perfectly melds with its surroundings, delighting not just its residents but its onlookers too.
The 15 Central Park West comprises two limestone-clad towers with 202 luxury units, ranging from one- to eight-bedroom configurations. “The House,” is a 19-story structure along Central Park West, while “The Tower” stands 35 stories high on Broadway. In addition to its main residences, there are 29 suites designed for live-in staff, guest apartments, extra storage, or home offices.
Its lavish amenities include full white-glove service with a 24-hour doorman and concierge, a private dining room and library, a 20-seat screening room, and a fitness club with a 75-foot lap pool. Many units also boast their own private wine cellars.
The Concord
Calgary, Alberta
Located in the prestigious Eau Claire neighborhood in Alberta, Canada, The Concord exemplifies luxury riverfront living. Known for its stunning architectural design and prime location along the Bow River, The Concord is a standout residential development that’s conveniently accessible to the city’s major roadways and public transit for easy commuting.
The Concord has two towers—the 17-story East Tower, which has 113 units, and the 14-story West Tower, which has 105 units. Suites range from 1,060 sq. ft. to 6,200 sq. ft.
An important amenity of The Concord is for car care. Since Alberta experiences extreme heat and cold, the development has installed an automated undercarriage and tire wash near the entrance of the parkade, along with a heated entrance ramp to keep the area slip-free. A four-cycle automated touchless warm water car wash is also available at their disposal.
Other amenities include a ballroom, fitness center, and a water garden that converts into a private ice rink during winter.
Pandan Valley
Singapore
Pandan Valley, designed by veteran architect Tan Cheng Siong, was built in 1977. It was the first condominium complex or “condo housing estate” in Singapore. It was also the first development to incorporate shops, education centers, and other amenities similar to public housing.
Pandan Valley was built in a unique way. The buildings were designed like a step-down architecture stacked within each block. The bright green roofs of some buildings add to the distinctive charm of the structures.
It boasts of amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, a koi pond, a playground for children, and sports facilities like a tennis court and a basketball court. Panda Valley is also a full community with shops, clinics, restaurants, supermarkets, and even a day care center.
Sources: jeffreyteam.com, libertyvillagetoronto.com, 15centralparkw.com, bhsusa.com, repcalgaryhomes.ca, stackedhomes.com, condocontrol.com
