Highland Commons – new Altree project immersed in nature and steps from the University of Toronto

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Highland Commons marks Altree Developments’ first residential project in Toronto’s east end. These two well-proportioned midrise buildings sit at the centre point of the enriched community of Highland Creek. Residential suites range from studios to three-bedroom units, with variations of accessible layouts that will accommodate a range of buyers. Additionally, private balconies are of a scale comparable to suite interiors. But there’s more to Highland Commons than its approachable design – Highland Commons offers a lifestyle of urban living immersed in nature.

The area surrounding Highland Commons is known for its lush greenspaces and robust academic offerings. In addition to having some of Toronto’s largest parks, the Highland Creek neighbourhood is home to leading academic institutions. The University of Toronto, known for its academia, established its historic Scarborough campus back in the 1960s, and consistently attracts students, young professionals and researchers pioneering the latest innovations.

The U of T – Scarborough campus, connected by tree-lined streets to Highland Commons, is currently undergoing rapid growth. By 2023, three new facilities will be added. First, the neo-futurist designed indigenous house, which has already broken ground and will be a high-design and inclusive space. A new student residence building is also being constructed to accommodate students’ overwhelming demand to live close to campus. Lastly, a new technology centre is slated to accelerate student enrollment. As the university grows, the convenient location of Highland Commons indicates incredible opportunities in an established and thriving community.

A growing community

Due in large part to capital investments and institutional expansions, it can be expected that the eastern portion of Toronto will become one of the city’s most livable areas. The federal and provincial governments have recognized the Scarborough subway extension as a shovel-ready project. The Eglinton Crosstown LRT terminates in Scarborough and is expected to be completed in fall of 2022. Municipal leaders have also suggested extending the LRT line further east in the coming years. These core infrastructure projects indicate a direct connection from Highland Commons to the broader Toronto urban network.

“When we first started working on Highland Commons, we knew that this pocket of Toronto had something special that set it apart from anywhere else in the city,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder of Altree Developments. “From its historic charm and growing facilities, the neighbourhood is truly unique.”

The details in the design

Highland Commons will consist of two eight-storey residential developments, positioned at the corner of Military Trail and Kingston Road – Hwy. 2A. The buildings will sit side-by-side and back onto a ravine and trail network. The natural tranquility of the surroundings adds a distinct and relaxing effect to modern condominium living.
Kohn Architects took a balanced approach when crafting the architectural facades and features. Variations of tones and textures define the panel cladded facade to create distinction and movement. The majority of units offer floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light. Exterior masonry details are also partially carried into the interior, welcoming in more earthy tones. Expansive balconies protrude outwards from the face of the building, and are of a scale comparable to interior living spaces to comfortably accommodate private outdoor living.

Wellness-oriented amenities

The benefit of a resort-inspired amenity package is that everything to support an active lifestyle is conveniently available. With more than 13 different offerings, Highland Commons pushes the needle forward on wellness-oriented amenities, both inside and out.

Inside Highland Commons is an array of fitness spaces. A double-height fitness centre overlooks the neighbouring ravine, breathing fresh energy into your strength and aerobic workouts. The space features change rooms, a spin studio, state-of-the-art cardio equipment and free weights. Additionally, the indoor squash court presents opportunities to work up a sweat with friends and neighbours alike.

Altree Developments elevates social spaces beyond traditional party rooms. Highland Commons has a ping-pong area and a billiards room, affording leisure opportunities and a two-level social space.

A children’s playroom was designed with interactive play and childhood development in mind. A variety of textures, colours and play apparatuses creates countless opportunities for children to connect, learn and grow. Parents and caregivers also have the pleasure of supervising in comfort with a lounge area.

Ahead of growing demands for flexible work or study spaces, Highland Commons has a co-working lounge with concentrated areas where residents can focus. Students, entrepreneurs, those working from home, or empty nesters can advance their personal and professional goals from the convenience of a communal work space. The curtain wall illuminates the lounge area with warming sunlight infiltrating private work areas that are outfitted with the technology to run a smooth meeting. Other areas of the co-working lounge encourage collaboration or concentrated study.

A rooftop lounge fitted with fire pits features an awe-inspiring view out towards one of Toronto’s largest parks. Some other luxurious outdoor facilities are part of the project’s offerings to continue the themes of wellness-oriented amenities. Highland Commons will offer a full-sized basketball court and life-sized chess and barbecue lounge area for socializing in the summer months. Additionally, the outdoor swimming pool will offer a place to cool off with sizeable lounge chairs, and outdoor restrooms to position yourself all day long.

“The amenities at Highland Commons are our interpretation of a wellness-oriented lifestyle,” says Jordan DeBrincat Mintzas, vice-president of Altree Developments. “The community surrounding this project is rich in natural beauty, and it was important that we maximize those views, not just in the units, but also in the shared amenity spaces.”

What really sets this urban project apart is its connection to nature. The vast parks and greenspaces are key landmarks in the area, and are set to be preserved over time. Nestled behind Highland Commons is Toronto’s natural preserved ravine systems and trails which is home to a vast range of wildlife, such as salmon and deer. From the rooftop of Highland Commons, you look out to the broader natural ecosystem of Toronto’s east end and just a short distance away, you will find yourself perched amongst The Scarborough Bluffs and Lake Ontario, which are some of the city’s natural wonders. At Highland Commons, not only are you connected to Toronto’s urban environment, but you’re completely surrounded by natural ravines, trails and waterways – a perfect place to Live. Connect. Escape.

Register now, and learn more at thehighlandcommons.com