A massive development planned for the former site of the Globe And Mail building at Front Street and Spadina Avenue is aiming to create a unique space in the city where retail, office space and living space will be combined in a planned neighbourhood with a European feel.
The former building is currently being demolished and the new project is set to break ground later this year. In the meantime, renderings posted online give a sense of what developers – Riocan, Allied Properties and Diamond Corp – are envisioning.
The project will take up half a city block, between Wellington and Front streets and about half the space between Bathurst and Front streets. In all, it aims to add two million square feet of mixed use space to the area.
While office and residential space form part of the plan, the developers say the 400,000 square foot retail space will create a “unique” experience akin to New York’s Meat Packing District and Butler’s Wharf in London.
Multi-level design
Images from the renderings show glass and steel ramps and beams connecting an open-air area with four shopping levels. The space will be covered by a massive 36,000 square foot glass canopy.
Food space
A food hall with 14 kiosks is planned, as well as an “old-world inspired” food market hall with local produce and a culinary school. There will also be space for 12 restaurants.
Office space
The developers say that 36 floors of office space will be designed to meet “the evolving needs of modern office employees.” Those needs include floor-to-ceiling windows, bike storage shower facilities and sky gardens on upper floors of the building.
Entertainment
The retail space at The Well is slated to include a movie theatre and a gym.
