D. Bowes
D. Bowes's projects
Recent Activity
Supported a comment by Cairns Deleway on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Supported a comment by Cairns Deleway on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Cairns Deleway
Note for project team: Please learn from the Mirvish village development happening in Toronto - there seems to be a great mix of cultural space, one-of-kind retail spaces and pedestrian oriented streets with neon-lit signs that look very appealing. If east harbour has this unique mix and creates streets that appeal to pedestrians through these intimate laneway connections, this will invariably become a destination.
Note for project team: Please learn from the Mirvish village development happening in Toronto - there seems to be a great mix of cultural space, one-of-kind retail spaces and pedestrian oriented streets with neon-lit signs that look very appealing. If east harbour has this unique mix and creates streets that appeal to pedestrians through these intimate laneway connections, this will invariably become a destination.
Followed Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Supported a comment by Cairns Deleway on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Cairns Deleway
Nightlife. Young people in Toronto want more options that don't close so early. A way to keep East Harbour afloat past 5pm is to bring in a wide range of bars, clubs and cultural options that go through the night. Knowing Torontonians, I know noise is going to be a concern, so look at ways venues can reduce noise through insulation or certain design elements. We have to remember we are in a large city, a noise is inevitable. We have lost over a dozen music venues because of the pandemic, it is at a dire situation for us in the music/entertainment industry. The cultural industries are the hardest hit industry and it expected to take the longest to recover. Ensure East Harbour can accommodate a large number of these types of establishments to position Toronto as a competitive place to 'have fun'. Unfortunately, Montreal is the cultural capital of Canada... but East Harbour should seek to challenge this. Retail should be unique, focusing on shops that you wouldn't normally find in other retail districts downtown. Perhaps local designers, or international designers looking to open a staple Canadian location. Please ensure Live music and live performance is engrained in East Harbour's DNA, as well as give opportunities to artists/buskers being pushed out of Toronto.
Nightlife. Young people in Toronto want more options that don't close so early. A way to keep East Harbour afloat past 5pm is to bring in a wide range of bars, clubs and cultural options that go through the night. Knowing Torontonians, I know noise is going to be a concern, so look at ways venues can reduce noise through insulation or certain design elements. We have to remember we are in a large city, a noise is inevitable. We have lost over a dozen music venues because of the pandemic, it is at a dire situation for us in the music/entertainment industry. The cultural industries are the hardest hit industry and it expected to take the longest to recover. Ensure East Harbour can accommodate a large number of these types of establishments to position Toronto as a competitive place to 'have fun'. Unfortunately, Montreal is the cultural capital of Canada... but East Harbour should seek to challenge this. Retail should be unique, focusing on shops that you wouldn't normally find in other retail districts downtown. Perhaps local designers, or international designers looking to open a staple Canadian location. Please ensure Live music and live performance is engrained in East Harbour's DNA, as well as give opportunities to artists/buskers being pushed out of Toronto.
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Partnership with the local businesses, commercial property owners, and BIA, who can help East Harbour become part of a wholistic neighbourhood, providing spaces for the unique businesses that can't or won't be viable in the brand new retail on the East Harbour site. East Harbour can't possibly be any good as a community if it becomes one with a view to being a "self-contained" neighbourhood: that would result in a bleak and soul-less place...just like Canary Wharf was for it's first decade or two of existence post-bankruptcy (I lived in London in the mid-2000's, and know first-hand how awful it was). With a bit of forward planning in collaboration with the thriving residential areas that currently surround the East Harbour site, East Harbour should be able to hit the ground running as a successful addition to the City. Don't repeat the shortsighted mistakes of the Canary Wharf developers who seemed to lack any understanding of how to develop with a view to neighbourhood planning for actual humans. They might have "won" by certain
real estate metrics, but they could have made those same wins in a way that made Canary Wharf useful to real people a decade sooner than it was. Make this neighbourhood a win-win from the start. It's an outcome that it is within your grasp.
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Community Services & Facilities
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Someone who lives close by
Supported a comment by Jason Paris on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Jason Paris
Grocery stores. Maintaining the soap factory to anchor the community to its history.
Grocery stores. Maintaining the soap factory to anchor the community to its history.
Supported a comment by Bram W on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Bram W
Prioritizing public green spaces and seamless area access.
Prioritizing public green spaces and seamless area access.
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
I offer three real-world examples of what draws our family to a destination neighbourhood, for East Harbour to copy or surpass (using nearby Corktown for this example):
1. An Indoor Attraction (the Cherry St. YMCA, with great family programming, draws us in one day a week, every single week);
2. An Outdoor Attraction (Corktown Common quickly became the trendy location for local Birthday Parties, and a regular waypoint on our family cycling route through Cherry Beach and the Leslie Spit);
3. Food (we always stop at the little restaurant area in the Canary District after our trip to the YMCA or Corktown Common).
1. An Indoor Attraction (the Cherry St. YMCA, with great family programming, draws us in one day a week, every single week);
2. An Outdoor Attraction (Corktown Common quickly became the trendy location for local Birthday Parties, and a regular waypoint on our family cycling route through Cherry Beach and the Leslie Spit);
3. Food (we always stop at the little restaurant area in the Canary District after our trip to the YMCA or Corktown Common).
Supported a comment by David V on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
David V
While I agree, a grocery store is not going to 'inject life' into this future world-class development. It will certainly be convenient and important, but it is galleries, venues, museums or lake cultural anchors, sports, shopping, bars etc that will inject life here. These social anchors will draw a crows past 5pm and inject more of a work/live balance in toronto
While I agree, a grocery store is not going to 'inject life' into this future world-class development. It will certainly be convenient and important, but it is galleries, venues, museums or lake cultural anchors, sports, shopping, bars etc that will inject life here. These social anchors will draw a crows past 5pm and inject more of a work/live balance in toronto
Supported a comment by Claire McLeod on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Claire McLeod
A mix of small locally owned businesses are key!
A mix of small locally owned businesses are key!
Supported a comment by Oliver Turner on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Oliver Turner
Parks, restaurants, cafes and a grocery store will all attract people to the area and inject life and local energy into the new development. Do not repeat city place, where uninteresting, chain stores and fast food did not create a culture people wanted to stay in (initially they all headed north to Queen/King).
Parks, restaurants, cafes and a grocery store will all attract people to the area and inject life and local energy into the new development. Do not repeat city place, where uninteresting, chain stores and fast food did not create a culture people wanted to stay in (initially they all headed north to Queen/King).
Supported a comment by David Hannah on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
David Hannah
How to prevent East Harbour from becoming another city place residential disaster.
How to prevent East Harbour from becoming another city place residential disaster.
Supported a comment by David V on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
David V
Completely agree. We need more options for artists in this amazing city, as well as DJs and venues
Completely agree. We need more options for artists in this amazing city, as well as DJs and venues
Supported a comment by Shelagh T. on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Shelagh T.
How to prevent another wall of condos being built next to the lakefront.
How to prevent another wall of condos being built next to the lakefront.
Supported a comment by B Hague on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
B Hague
Don't you think it is an odd location to have a 65 storey Residential building completely surrounded by equally sized (height) office towers giving the residents barely any views? Wouldn't that residential tower be better located on the site. I assume it was placed there to provide street activation during off peak hours, but seems like an odd location.
Don't you think it is an odd location to have a 65 storey Residential building completely surrounded by equally sized (height) office towers giving the residents barely any views? Wouldn't that residential tower be better located on the site. I assume it was placed there to provide street activation during off peak hours, but seems like an odd location.
Supported a comment by Karen M on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Karen M
What kinds of plans are proposed to ensure that this is an equitable, inclusive space, where Torontonians and visitors aren't excluded / 'priced out' (financially or otherwise), as we've seen in other spaces like Canary Wharf (called out in the consultation presentation as a "success")? Affordable housing is part of the solution, but what other commitments will you make to ensure this is a space for everyone?
What kinds of plans are proposed to ensure that this is an equitable, inclusive space, where Torontonians and visitors aren't excluded / 'priced out' (financially or otherwise), as we've seen in other spaces like Canary Wharf (called out in the consultation presentation as a "success")? Affordable housing is part of the solution, but what other commitments will you make to ensure this is a space for everyone?
Supported a comment by Eric Wright on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Eric Wright
Fully agree. Include pedestrian and cycle only street spaces, and let those spaces be vibrant and mixed-use.
Fully agree. Include pedestrian and cycle only street spaces, and let those spaces be vibrant and mixed-use.
Supported a comment by Cairns Deleway on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Cairns Deleway
I completely agree with you, Joe. Montreal has the upper hand when it comes to entertainment, culture and fun. Streets in Montreal that are mostly pedestrian scaled accommodate circus arts, performers, all types of flexible arts/culture installations. Toronto has a business flair but not really a culture flair aside from a few small districts. East Harbour is probably our last shot to reclaim this, considering it is one of the last largest undeveloped parcels of land.
If Toronto cannot compete culturally with other major players, it will not be a desirable place to live, visit or work. Being Canada's most visited destination, we have to expand on this but also remember how residents are used to venues being replaced by condos.
I am worried that any entertainment venues will appeal strictly to the working-class, wealthier office folks in a similar fashion to Canary Wharf. I hope this site will engage & attract youth, as well as the wider arts community.
I completely agree with you, Joe. Montreal has the upper hand when it comes to entertainment, culture and fun. Streets in Montreal that are mostly pedestrian scaled accommodate circus arts, performers, all types of flexible arts/culture installations. Toronto has a business flair but not really a culture flair aside from a few small districts. East Harbour is probably our last shot to reclaim this, considering it is one of the last largest undeveloped parcels of land.
If Toronto cannot compete culturally with other major players, it will not be a desirable place to live, visit or work. Being Canada's most visited destination, we have to expand on this but also remember how residents are used to venues being replaced by condos.
I am worried that any entertainment venues will appeal strictly to the working-class, wealthier office folks in a similar fashion to Canary Wharf. I hope this site will engage & attract youth, as well as the wider arts community.
Supported a comment by Rob Hatton on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Rob Hatton
If the site can accommodate an extra 5 or 6 thousand residents (without any planning), it can surely accommodate and easement to put the subway underground at Booth.
If the site can accommodate an extra 5 or 6 thousand residents (without any planning), it can surely accommodate and easement to put the subway underground at Booth.
Supported a comment by Eric Wright on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Eric Wright
Fully agree. As more and more people live downtown, green spaces can't be just the left over land. It needs to be the hub of the space.
Fully agree. As more and more people live downtown, green spaces can't be just the left over land. It needs to be the hub of the space.
Supported a comment by David V on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
David V
This is important for seniors, as well as housing affordability for artists. Wychwood barns is the only community like this I know.
This is important for seniors, as well as housing affordability for artists. Wychwood barns is the only community like this I know.
Supported a comment by Marisa B on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Marisa B
Affordability, transit connections, bike routes, public spaces
Affordability, transit connections, bike routes, public spaces
Supported a comment by Jennifer S on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Jennifer S
Environmental impact & green space. Schools & child care services.
Environmental impact & green space. Schools & child care services.
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
A thought regarding the Soap Factory...it reminds me of an artist's collective I visited in Berlin. Reclaimed industrial, cavernous interior spaces for galleries, raves (or whatever young people do these days)/concerts/grand events. Why would U2 want to play an arena if they could play the Soap Factory in Slane Castle style (I'd insert a link here, it's really worth checking out if you're too young to have seen it)? The Soap Factory as an inspiring canvas could go a long way toward addressing all of the arts and culture and affordability comments filling this feedback page. But maybe this has "already been done"? Looking forward to seeing what the team comes up with that could equal or surpass the Soap Factory!
Supported a comment by Gene B on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Gene B
The fact you don´t respond publicly is not reassuring. I´d be interested in the responses too.
The fact you don´t respond publicly is not reassuring. I´d be interested in the responses too.
Supported a comment by GERRY BROWN on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
GERRY BROWN
1. Are there any changes to the previous Street Network plan. One key part of that plan was to have some of the smaller streets be vehicle-free. Does your reference to "pedestrian-accessible open spaces" include these? There don't seem to be any cycling spaces on Streets A-D. How will you design these streets with a Vision Zero lens and safe spaces for all users? 2. With regards to the Transit Hub does Metrolinx have any estimates of future traffic, especially with regards to the idea of the hub operating as a "Union Station to the East". 3. Is there a plan to encourage transit use prior to the completion of the Ontario Line and the Broadview Streetcar extension or is the development only proceeding after those projects are in place. 4. One of the rationales offered for keeping the Soap Factory in place was the amount of material (eg. concrete and steel) that would be re-used. Do you have any plan to account for the increased GHG emissions that will be generated by building fully new buildings? 5. The Toronto Green Standards Checklist indicates the buildings will meet Tier 1. I didn't see any plan to achieve higher environmental standards beyond the minimum Toronto require, such as LEED? I'm hoping I missed that; if not, that would be very disappointing. 6. Is the only addition affordable housing your $5M contribution to offsite housing?
1. Are there any changes to the previous Street Network plan. One key part of that plan was to have some of the smaller streets be vehicle-free. Does your reference to "pedestrian-accessible open spaces" include these? There don't seem to be any cycling spaces on Streets A-D. How will you design these streets with a Vision Zero lens and safe spaces for all users? 2. With regards to the Transit Hub does Metrolinx have any estimates of future traffic, especially with regards to the idea of the hub operating as a "Union Station to the East". 3. Is there a plan to encourage transit use prior to the completion of the Ontario Line and the Broadview Streetcar extension or is the development only proceeding after those projects are in place. 4. One of the rationales offered for keeping the Soap Factory in place was the amount of material (eg. concrete and steel) that would be re-used. Do you have any plan to account for the increased GHG emissions that will be generated by building fully new buildings? 5. The Toronto Green Standards Checklist indicates the buildings will meet Tier 1. I didn't see any plan to achieve higher environmental standards beyond the minimum Toronto require, such as LEED? I'm hoping I missed that; if not, that would be very disappointing. 6. Is the only addition affordable housing your $5M contribution to offsite housing?
Supported a comment by Carol McCague on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Carol McCague
Mis of Housing - i.e. Townhomes, Semi's
Mis of Housing - i.e. Townhomes, Semi's
Supported a comment by Kay Barley on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Kay Barley
CF - Please, no more repetitive and bland retail, I don't want to see any excessive McDonalds or chain stores. That does not make a district vibrant or create life past 5pm, try to think outside of the box for retail and showcase how a large commercial district doesn't have to feel all that commercial at all. Be a leader here, where Toronto has more local fashion, culture, restaurants and experiences that make us proud and excited to live here. A way to infuse this spirit is to make commercial rents deeply affordable for creative entrepreneurs.
Also a word on the public realm. Please ensure the central square isn't the only focus. A stage and some seating does not feel exciting or world-class to me. Think of vibrant cities around the world like Times Square, shibuya crossing in Tokyo, Covent Garden or Piccadilly Circus in London, these squares have a POP element with cool lighting where people are attracted to coming at nighttime to see neon lights, vibrant screens and glowing public art. Try to make something signature for Toronto, the kind of thing that is original but imposes a signature mark on our overall urban appeal. Perhaps the alleyway retail streets can have these neon lighting in signage, or string lighting to make them feel warm and appealing to walk around at. I would like to feel inspired to come to East Harbour - Simply a few glass towers and a square is just not enough. Be bold here
CF - Please, no more repetitive and bland retail, I don't want to see any excessive McDonalds or chain stores. That does not make a district vibrant or create life past 5pm, try to think outside of the box for retail and showcase how a large commercial district doesn't have to feel all that commercial at all. Be a leader here, where Toronto has more local fashion, culture, restaurants and experiences that make us proud and excited to live here. A way to infuse this spirit is to make commercial rents deeply affordable for creative entrepreneurs.
Also a word on the public realm. Please ensure the central square isn't the only focus. A stage and some seating does not feel exciting or world-class to me. Think of vibrant cities around the world like Times Square, shibuya crossing in Tokyo, Covent Garden or Piccadilly Circus in London, these squares have a POP element with cool lighting where people are attracted to coming at nighttime to see neon lights, vibrant screens and glowing public art. Try to make something signature for Toronto, the kind of thing that is original but imposes a signature mark on our overall urban appeal. Perhaps the alleyway retail streets can have these neon lighting in signage, or string lighting to make them feel warm and appealing to walk around at. I would like to feel inspired to come to East Harbour - Simply a few glass towers and a square is just not enough. Be bold here
Supported a comment by Jason Self on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Jason Self
Ensure the built form respects the vernacular of the immediate area. Don't build generic condos with glass spandral, instead use brick and other 'home' elements. The public realm is key as is a zero carbon footprint
Ensure the built form respects the vernacular of the immediate area. Don't build generic condos with glass spandral, instead use brick and other 'home' elements. The public realm is key as is a zero carbon footprint
Supported a comment by Momola issa on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Momola issa
Heck yeah to this dude
Heck yeah to this dude
Supported a comment by mike gohl on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
mike gohl
For Project team - Kensington Market does this exceptionally well. It is on the top 5 destinations in Toronto because it has such an indie and non-commercial feel - There are record stores, vintage stores, unique arts spaces and venues, cafes, a variety of multicultural restaurants and street art. East Harbour needs to keep this similar funky and indie spirit and be a bit non-traditional. There would be a unique mix of arty-ness with these unique retail spaces as well as the contrasting entrepreneurial/suits and ties district with the large towers. This creates a district for all and would largely feel a mix of being commercial and unique.
Think about Identity — In 21st century cities, neighbourhoods say a lot about a city and what kind of city we live in. You have a chance to be funky, be arty, give young people a reason to want to create here and be part of this edginess. Your chain stores and cookie-cutter Zara’s and H&M, bix box retailers are repetitive and do not install uniqueness or a way of standing out and attracting people.
For Project team - Kensington Market does this exceptionally well. It is on the top 5 destinations in Toronto because it has such an indie and non-commercial feel - There are record stores, vintage stores, unique arts spaces and venues, cafes, a variety of multicultural restaurants and street art. East Harbour needs to keep this similar funky and indie spirit and be a bit non-traditional. There would be a unique mix of arty-ness with these unique retail spaces as well as the contrasting entrepreneurial/suits and ties district with the large towers. This creates a district for all and would largely feel a mix of being commercial and unique.
Think about Identity — In 21st century cities, neighbourhoods say a lot about a city and what kind of city we live in. You have a chance to be funky, be arty, give young people a reason to want to create here and be part of this edginess. Your chain stores and cookie-cutter Zara’s and H&M, bix box retailers are repetitive and do not install uniqueness or a way of standing out and attracting people.
Supported a comment by Momola issa on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Momola issa
I'd like to see more 'offbeat' shops and eccentricity in East Harbour too.
I'm genuinely so tired and fed up with the cookie-cutter Rexall pharmacies, weed stores and overall dreariness all over Downtown Toronto! Liberty village, City place, Yonge Street...it's all too generic with the same boring chain restaurants and the same soul sucking architecture.
I don't want to see steakhouses and boston pizza's in East Harbour, a truly 'world-class' neighbourhood has a wow-factor where retail and vibes are hip and different.
I'd like to see more 'offbeat' shops and eccentricity in East Harbour too.
I'm genuinely so tired and fed up with the cookie-cutter Rexall pharmacies, weed stores and overall dreariness all over Downtown Toronto! Liberty village, City place, Yonge Street...it's all too generic with the same boring chain restaurants and the same soul sucking architecture.
I don't want to see steakhouses and boston pizza's in East Harbour, a truly 'world-class' neighbourhood has a wow-factor where retail and vibes are hip and different.
Supported a comment by Florence Dandry on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Florence Dandry
coming from London, Uk and echoing the comments below I would care to see more support for arts. I feel like there aren't enough quirky districts in this city that celebrate and promote the creative community. Everything is too bland and polished. A few art exhibits or murals in a neighbourhood doesn't make a district arty. We need communes and retail spaces carved out for these artists, a place post-pandemic that culturally thrives and is in line with Toronto's nightlife action plan as well as other local cultural initiatives. In my hometown a neighbourhood called Shoreditch and spitalfields does this mix of art/cultural district and business/finance very well. Shoreditch has studio spaces and quirky art spaces but has nearby city of London workers (Our version of financial district) coming to these spaces as well as tourists and locals too. Please tell the project team to also take inspiration from Soho in London. It truly is a fun and dynamic place.
coming from London, Uk and echoing the comments below I would care to see more support for arts. I feel like there aren't enough quirky districts in this city that celebrate and promote the creative community. Everything is too bland and polished. A few art exhibits or murals in a neighbourhood doesn't make a district arty. We need communes and retail spaces carved out for these artists, a place post-pandemic that culturally thrives and is in line with Toronto's nightlife action plan as well as other local cultural initiatives. In my hometown a neighbourhood called Shoreditch and spitalfields does this mix of art/cultural district and business/finance very well. Shoreditch has studio spaces and quirky art spaces but has nearby city of London workers (Our version of financial district) coming to these spaces as well as tourists and locals too. Please tell the project team to also take inspiration from Soho in London. It truly is a fun and dynamic place.
Supported a comment by Momola issa on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Momola issa
How to focus on culture, entertainment and 'eye-candy' design and built form as a way of building city identity and enhancing liveability.
How to focus on culture, entertainment and 'eye-candy' design and built form as a way of building city identity and enhancing liveability.
Supported a comment by Parker Loche on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Parker Loche
I'd also like to see TO break out of this distinct business flair and be more cultural and artistic. This is what fascinates people and makes people excited about cities. Not buildings and fast food joints...
I'd also like to see TO break out of this distinct business flair and be more cultural and artistic. This is what fascinates people and makes people excited about cities. Not buildings and fast food joints...
Supported a comment by Momola issa on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Momola issa
This is going to be a major district where people will live work and travel through. Think of how you can think of East Harbour as a destination worth visiting rather than just an interchange or junction. I can tell you right now that people in my age group (late teens - early 20s) will be bored out of our minds if this is a district that shuts down past midnight. People my age want to take cool photos for instagram at cool art exhibits and cool buildings. Yonge-Dundas square is okay but you guys can do better, aim to make a 'cooler times square' if that is even possible. If East Harbour isn't a cultural destination and is appealing enough, there isn't another site in Toronto that has a chance to really showcase what Toronto's true identity is. I mean for example is incorporating unique restaurants in spaces like buildings with downtown views, or on rooftops even. After this covid bullshit ends (pardon my French) I want a place where I can let myself go, walking around Yonge Street or Bloor west and sitting on a patio can get repetitive...We have so many talented artists, musicians, designers etc. who have left Toronto because they are young artist who cannot afford rents. All of these shiny new condos are replacing all of the amazing arts collectives. Be the district that proves me wrong about staying here.
This is going to be a major district where people will live work and travel through. Think of how you can think of East Harbour as a destination worth visiting rather than just an interchange or junction. I can tell you right now that people in my age group (late teens - early 20s) will be bored out of our minds if this is a district that shuts down past midnight. People my age want to take cool photos for instagram at cool art exhibits and cool buildings. Yonge-Dundas square is okay but you guys can do better, aim to make a 'cooler times square' if that is even possible. If East Harbour isn't a cultural destination and is appealing enough, there isn't another site in Toronto that has a chance to really showcase what Toronto's true identity is. I mean for example is incorporating unique restaurants in spaces like buildings with downtown views, or on rooftops even. After this covid bullshit ends (pardon my French) I want a place where I can let myself go, walking around Yonge Street or Bloor west and sitting on a patio can get repetitive...We have so many talented artists, musicians, designers etc. who have left Toronto because they are young artist who cannot afford rents. All of these shiny new condos are replacing all of the amazing arts collectives. Be the district that proves me wrong about staying here.
Supported a comment by Phil P on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Phil P
Need more parks and other amenities
Need more parks and other amenities
Supported a comment by Tony Whitaker on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Tony Whitaker
65 storey residential towers exist at Yonge and Bloor and close to Scotiabank Arena etc. Not appropriate for East Harbour. If residential is approved, a maximum height of 25 storeys should be the number. This would be consistent with the surrounding area (West Don Lands condos) and even lower heights on Broadview Avenue up to Queen St.
65 storey residential towers exist at Yonge and Bloor and close to Scotiabank Arena etc. Not appropriate for East Harbour. If residential is approved, a maximum height of 25 storeys should be the number. This would be consistent with the surrounding area (West Don Lands condos) and even lower heights on Broadview Avenue up to Queen St.
Supported a comment by Cole J on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Cole J
Build people-focused streets, take away North American car mentality it brings congestion and takes away liveability. The distillery district in Toronto is a good example. Also think of design and Architecture as important to citizens, not something that comes last. It's what makes a district feel inviting and inspiring.
Build people-focused streets, take away North American car mentality it brings congestion and takes away liveability. The distillery district in Toronto is a good example. Also think of design and Architecture as important to citizens, not something that comes last. It's what makes a district feel inviting and inspiring.
Supported a comment by Lisa T. on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Lisa T.
An aesthetic charm that feels less "metropolitan" and more European. Pedestrian friendly and focus on trees, and green spaces.
An aesthetic charm that feels less "metropolitan" and more European. Pedestrian friendly and focus on trees, and green spaces.
Supported a comment by Aisling N on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Aisling N
Scale. When you look at world class cities, they have planned their cities to respect the scale and natural world so that residential spaces blend and are not fighting against the space. We missed this opportunity when we redeveloped the lake front near Park Lawn with sky high towers on the the lake that block the sky high towers behind them. We have an opportunity here to reimagine this. Having 20+ floor towers on the bank of a river or lakefront is an irreversible decision that will affect our communities for generations. And there is no argument to be made for creating housing that we need when these units will likely go for close to a million and only $5M is being spent on affordable housing that is all offsite. Let’s envision a right-sized scale community with beautiful green space that will blend into the Portland’s and not overshadow them. We have learned so much about balance in the past two years and how people want to live and spend their time, let’s use that to design our future and not use planning practices that only perpetuate density and put the value on efficiency over joy.
Scale. When you look at world class cities, they have planned their cities to respect the scale and natural world so that residential spaces blend and are not fighting against the space. We missed this opportunity when we redeveloped the lake front near Park Lawn with sky high towers on the the lake that block the sky high towers behind them. We have an opportunity here to reimagine this. Having 20+ floor towers on the bank of a river or lakefront is an irreversible decision that will affect our communities for generations. And there is no argument to be made for creating housing that we need when these units will likely go for close to a million and only $5M is being spent on affordable housing that is all offsite. Let’s envision a right-sized scale community with beautiful green space that will blend into the Portland’s and not overshadow them. We have learned so much about balance in the past two years and how people want to live and spend their time, let’s use that to design our future and not use planning practices that only perpetuate density and put the value on efficiency over joy.
Supported a comment by Trevor McLeod on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Trevor McLeod
sustainability standards the units will adhere to
sustainability standards the units will adhere to
Supported a comment by Leslie Fernster on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Leslie Fernster
How to implement affordable artist studio space, area is also 'food desert' and think of how to attract young talent and to mitigate the arts exodus happening in Toronto. Less emphasis on big-box retail, more emphasis on local entrepreneurs.
How to implement affordable artist studio space, area is also 'food desert' and think of how to attract young talent and to mitigate the arts exodus happening in Toronto. Less emphasis on big-box retail, more emphasis on local entrepreneurs.
Supported a comment by Leslie Fernster on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Leslie Fernster
I'd like to see European-style streets with performers and cultural events, food trucks, places for kids & teens and pretty, striking architecture with different materials. No more glass rectangles with ugly balconies, tired of seeing this uninspiring design of residential buildings.
I'd like to see European-style streets with performers and cultural events, food trucks, places for kids & teens and pretty, striking architecture with different materials. No more glass rectangles with ugly balconies, tired of seeing this uninspiring design of residential buildings.
Supported a comment by Leslie Fernster on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Leslie Fernster
Not just in subway stations, but also in squares or public spaces... Advanced video projections instead of screens, or more self-serve grocers/self-serve advanced kiosks etc. Experiment a little bit in East Harbour, it could be a place where anything can happen, where ideas are tested in all fields.
Not just in subway stations, but also in squares or public spaces... Advanced video projections instead of screens, or more self-serve grocers/self-serve advanced kiosks etc. Experiment a little bit in East Harbour, it could be a place where anything can happen, where ideas are tested in all fields.
Supported a comment by Matt Langille on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Matt Langille
The specifics and possibilities of residential-commercial integration and elevated public-realm
The specifics and possibilities of residential-commercial integration and elevated public-realm
Supported a comment by Leslie Fernster on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Leslie Fernster
I'd love to see a thriving arts&culture community. Please don't just designate or silo 'cultural space' as it's own thing. Consider these as opportunities for employment in towers. I'd like to see more arts groups, organisations and international design/film/music industries occupy the buildings. An example is how a major video game company Ubisoft opened up a location in Le Plateau, Montreal because of its creative scene. Attract more local and international creative companies like that and grow our artistic influence on the world.
I'd love to see a thriving arts&culture community. Please don't just designate or silo 'cultural space' as it's own thing. Consider these as opportunities for employment in towers. I'd like to see more arts groups, organisations and international design/film/music industries occupy the buildings. An example is how a major video game company Ubisoft opened up a location in Le Plateau, Montreal because of its creative scene. Attract more local and international creative companies like that and grow our artistic influence on the world.
Supported a comment by Jorge Alvarez on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Jorge Alvarez
Emphasis on walkability, urbanity, liveability and culture. I would not like to leave straight after work, I'd like to stay here and listen to live music or go to a dance performance and have a gelato at a nearby vendor. If we associate the places we work with places we also play, it improves our overall motivation and happiness of commuting to work. Squares and piazzas in Italy with patios, galleries, vendors and live music would be great here. Squares and streets need to be more than just street grids. Ensure retail streets are vibrant but also intimate in a way, ensure signage and streets are welcoming - another factor 'Romantic' or charming and pretty.
Emphasis on walkability, urbanity, liveability and culture. I would not like to leave straight after work, I'd like to stay here and listen to live music or go to a dance performance and have a gelato at a nearby vendor. If we associate the places we work with places we also play, it improves our overall motivation and happiness of commuting to work. Squares and piazzas in Italy with patios, galleries, vendors and live music would be great here. Squares and streets need to be more than just street grids. Ensure retail streets are vibrant but also intimate in a way, ensure signage and streets are welcoming - another factor 'Romantic' or charming and pretty.
Supported a comment by Rosemary Waterston on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Rosemary Waterston
Green spaces! The bits of green shown on your plans are too small. There needs to be a big park with space for a soccer pitch and baseball diamond. If you are adding 4000 residences this area needs real parkland, not just "gathering places" and "squares" with a few trees.
Green spaces! The bits of green shown on your plans are too small. There needs to be a big park with space for a soccer pitch and baseball diamond. If you are adding 4000 residences this area needs real parkland, not just "gathering places" and "squares" with a few trees.
Supported a comment by Marisa B on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Marisa B
100% agree. what measures will be put in place in terms of commercial rent restrictions/ lease types/types of space to keep this from being another block of Shoppers' and Starbucks'
100% agree. what measures will be put in place in terms of commercial rent restrictions/ lease types/types of space to keep this from being another block of Shoppers' and Starbucks'
Supported a comment by Veronica T on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Veronica T
I would like to see a push to support local restaurants and retail in this area. It would match the aesthetic of Queen E, which is largely dominated by local and small business rather than chain stores and restaurants.
I would like to see a push to support local restaurants and retail in this area. It would match the aesthetic of Queen E, which is largely dominated by local and small business rather than chain stores and restaurants.
Supported a comment by Tyler Walker on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Tyler Walker
Is it possible to connect to the cocktown park through a walking trail and biking trail over the new subway bridge. This would help connect park spaces and neighboourhoods.
Is it possible to connect to the cocktown park through a walking trail and biking trail over the new subway bridge. This would help connect park spaces and neighboourhoods.
Supported a comment by Tyler Walker on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Tyler Walker
Height Restriction. This is a quiet low lying neighbourhood. These Towers are much higher then anything else around. This is troublesome.
Height Restriction. This is a quiet low lying neighbourhood. These Towers are much higher then anything else around. This is troublesome.
Supported a comment by Tony Whitaker on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Tony Whitaker
Residential uses should be for all and affordable housing allocation should follow City inclusive zoning guidelines. Residential buildings should be no taller than those in West Don Lands directly across the Don River. up to 65 storeys belong at Yonge and Bloor and in the downtown core.
Residential uses should be for all and affordable housing allocation should follow City inclusive zoning guidelines. Residential buildings should be no taller than those in West Don Lands directly across the Don River. up to 65 storeys belong at Yonge and Bloor and in the downtown core.
Supported a comment by Sandy W. on
Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Sandy W.
Public spaces and connectivity to the surrounding communities.
Public spaces and connectivity to the surrounding communities.
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
East Harbour will be able to sell itself as an attractive place to live and work only because of how close it is to the thriving mixed-rent high street on Queen St. East, where businesses that could never anchor a condo tower draw in the new homeowners and creatives that live in condo towers: it would be wonderful to see this formally acknowledged through a partnership between the local BIA's and the East Harbour team, so that the neighbourhood as a whole can be made greater than the "sum of parts". I'd like to see more presentation of metrics that demonstrate how the East Harbour and related development is driving the greater success of the community.
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Community Services & Facilities
Commented on Engage East Harbour
2 years ago
Someone who lives close by
Emphasis on ensuring streets don't feel bland: Signage, string lights, markets, arts and culture will make an office district not feel just like a place to do business. Nearby distillery district does this well, it would be nice to see a lot of offbeat shops and of course cool design that can be admired at grade.