The United Building evolution of University Avenue

By NextHome Staff
June 21, 2019

The United Building is coming soon, and the mixed-use development is already garnering substantial interest. Registrations are pouring in from people interested in the rare opportunity to live, as well as work, play and shop on Toronto’s University Avenue. Situated at 481 University, Davpart Inc.’s complex will feature condominium residences atop two of the existing historic commercial/office/retail buildings that were part of the Maclean Publishing Company/Maclean Hunter company operations for decades. This architectural mélange of the old and the new will be the tallest architectural heritage retention development in North America.

The United Building follows a North American trend of combining residential space on a thoroughfare that has been primarily institutional in the past. It will retain commercial office and retail space in the restored heritage structure up to the 10th floor, from which a new 44-storey residence will rise. The interiors will be removed to make space for parking and retail floors below grade.

Davpart’s design team includes B+H Architects and heritage consultant ERA Architects, which are going to extreme lengths to preserve the exteriors of the buildings constructed in 1928 and 1961. Reflecting the classic yet contemporary flair of the exterior, Tomas Pearce Interior Design Consulting Inc. has designed the residential amenities including a luxurious lobby featuring 24/7 concierge service; a pool with a fireplace; an indoor/outdoor pool deck with sun loungers; and a fitness centre, sauna and rain room overlooking the courtyard. The United Building’s sports lounge will offer billiards, a video gaming lounge, bocce court and golf simulator. Rounding out the amenities are an all-season reflecting pool with warming pavilions and seating, a tranquil Zen garden and a party room, fireplace lounge and barbecue dining on the terrace.

Residents of The United Building will live within walking distance of shops, cafes, hospitals, parks, eclectic restaurants, nightlife, Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto City Hall, Art Gallery of Ontario, Grange Park, Chinatown, Ryerson University, University of Toronto, the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, Eaton Centre and the Financial District. The United Building will also include direct access from inside to St. Patrick’s TTC station. In addition, the subway and the 505 streetcar are at the doorstep.

Purchasers will be able to select from studio to one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom designs, some with a den, flex or media room, and some two-storey plans. The open suite layouts feature large windows and spacious balconies, as well as chef-inspired kitchens and top-quality appointments.

The United Building is rare on the Toronto residential landscape. Registrations are now being taken at TheUnitedBldg.com.

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