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July 21, 2017
in
by vearchitects

717 Queen Street West

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="717 Queen Street West" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] The existing property is currently occupied by a two-storey combination retail and residential building. This property has been owned by a local family since the mid-1960s. The family was looking to redevelop their property into a retail and residential building, with one retail unit and eight residential rental units.   In developing our proposal, V+A was mindful of the design character of Queen Street. A careful study of the surrounding context and urban design guidelines drove the design. The design scheme maintained and improved the quality of existing uses and is compatible with the neighbourhood. We consulted with stakeholders including the area planner, the local councilor and the West Queen West BIA, whose suggestions were incorporated into the design.   The design conforms to the Garrison Common North Secondary Plan. It supports the provision of range of housing types by...

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July 21, 2017
in
by vearchitects

747 Queen Street East

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="747 Queen Street" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] 747 Queen Street East is located in an emerging and attractive area of the city of Toronto, and proposes a residential condominium with street related commercial use.   The site was considered difficult to develop, primarily due to its unconventional proportions and restrictive zoning regulations. We arrived at a solution which required no variances to the by-law, and could be built under Part 9 of the building code, affording us relative ease in municipal approvals.   Each of the eight two-storey residential units boasts access to the outside, light and air ventilation from the front and rear, and is composed of a main floor with loft and double height spaces. A central courtyard forms a shared community space for the residents.   [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]...

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September 12, 2017
in
by vearchitects

Sidney Smith Cafe

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="Sidney Smith Cafe" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] The Sidney Smith Café, situated in Sidney Smith Hall on the University of Toronto St.George Campus, has served students for many years as an eatery and gathering space.   Renovations were made to accommodate a request for a more comfortable and functional space. As a construction project this involved revising servery equipment layouts, as well reviewing lighting conditions and the architectural quality of the space.   Existing problems included obstructed views and disorienting and unclear circulation as well as outdated millwork. Our design approach was to provide a simple and cohesive space to eliminate visual barriers and obstructions, and to provide a variety of student use spaces. Comfort was addressed with attractive materials and brighter lighting as well as through the articulation of the space into different areas of use: Café, Lounge and Hub. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]...

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July 12, 2017
in
by vearchitects

Buck Productions

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="Buck Productions" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] Buck Productions is a commercial and entertainment production agency. V+A was asked to renovate their newly acquired location at 18 Camden Street in downtown Toronto.   We worked closely with the client to ensure their particular needs and requirements were met. The resulting design is a bright, flowing space that retains the character of the existing building with a contemporary edge.   The quality of the space reflects the creative spirit and open doors concept at Buck Productions, while at the same time, accommodating the need for smaller private meeting and editing areas..   An important element for the client was the addition of an outdoor area for entertaining. This resulted in the renovation of the central stair, which pierces through the roof and leads to a spacious new rooftop garden. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]...

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July 12, 2017
in
by vearchitects

Ford Models

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="Ford Models" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] This renovation for Ford Models Canada involved reorganizing the busy 210 square metre downtown office to increase efficiency, take better advantage of the character of the existing space, and to improve the public image of the company.   Requirements of the renovation included a central booking room, a conference room where portfolios could be reviewed digitally, a meeting room for interviewing, a kitchen area, a portfolio library, a place for office equipment, storage space for servers, coats and supplies, a private office area, and a reception space at the entrance.   We provided the client with a contemporary look that satisfied the team’s functional requirements. New lighting and revised mechanical systems were introduced to complement the design, while the use of natural daylight was maximized by allowing clear paths between existing windows on all sides of the building. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]...

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July 12, 2017
in
by vearchitects

Sprouts Indoor Playground

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="Sprouts Indoor Playground" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] Sprouts is a unique facility offering multiple programs and services for children and young families. V+A was asked by the client to renovate their new space to meet the needs of their growing business.   We worked closely with the client to make certain that their vision was clearly expressed in the architecture and finishes of the space. The resulting design is a bright, flowing, and stimulating child and family friendly space with a contemporary edge.   The new space houses a large playground allowing for children’s free play, allowing parents to monitor their children while conversing with the staff. Preschool and daycare services are also offered within the space. Separate classrooms accommodate educational programming, such as arts and crafts, language and dance classes. Amenities include stroller parking, a quiet room for nursing mothers, baby change station, and parents’ lounge.   Sprouts has become a...

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July 12, 2017
in
by vearchitects

MEDS Junction Pharmacy

[vc_row][vc_column][qodef_custom_font font_family="Montserrat" font_size="24" line_height="34" font_weight="700" letter_spacing="-0.4" text_align="left" content_custom_font="MEDS Junction Pharmacy" color="#222222"][vc_empty_space height="20px"][vc_column_text] V+A Architects completed the renovation of a pharmacy in Toronto’s Junction neighborhood.   The existing building facade was removed to expose brick, which was then patched and repaired. A new storefront was inserted to update the façade, whilst showcasing its heritage and materiality.   Special attention was paid to neighboring buildings and context in order to respect the character and fabric of the neighborhood. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]...

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