The form and density of Harbourfront west was negotiated after the federal development freeze of the late 1980s. The new arrangement prohibited development south of Queens Quay West and to the north, set height limits at 12 stories. Much of this land between Spadina Avenue and Bathurst Street remained undeveloped until 1995, when the housing market in Toronto began to rise from the ashes.

Kings Landing
480 Queens Quay West
Architects, Arthur Erickson with John Cowle
Completed 1987

One development that escaped the federal freeze, this luxury condominium development is set apart from the point towers to the east by its south-facing terraces and solariums, and an early 1980s fascination with green glass. Penthouse units in this building sell at a premium. The extensive use of the solarium in Toronto was taken to extremes at Harbourfront, because solariums were not considered part of a unit’s gross floor area if unheated; yet they are easily converted into livable space. The ground floor of this building was renovated in 1994 by Kuwabara Payne McKenna Blumberg Architects to accommodate the National Ballet of Canada practice and rehearsal studios. This large area was originally proposed as a federal technology/entertainment centre and storefront retail, but neither was realized.

Yo Yo Ma Music Garden
Designed by Julie Moir Messervy and Yo Yo Ma
Completed 1999

Across the street, the Yo Yo Ma Music Garden designed by Julie Messervy, a Boston garden designer, was opened in 1999. It is inspired by the interpretation of the Bach Concerto by its namesake, a world-renowned cellist. Be sure to venture in and experience all five musical movements of the garden, each featuring public art commissions, including an ornate wrought iron bandshell and a wind-propelled maypole. All the furnishings for this garden were custom designed. In the summer, on Sunday afternoons, you can enjoy musical performances by the Toronto Symphony.

500 Queens Quay West
Architects, Kuwabara Payne McKenna Blumberg
Completed 1999

This private luxury condominium development is distinguished by its “L” shape, unique set-back conditions, and use of brick, a material that is uncommon in the new Harbourfront buildings. Unlike many other Harbourfront buildings to the east, the north facade is a delight from the expressway. The extensively glazed and much coveted penthouse units include two-storey lofts, which afford exclusive views to Toronto Bay and the city.

Queen’s Harbour
Completed 1998

Originally slated as the site for the Harbourfront Fire Hall, these condominiums entered the private market in 1997 at a price considered “affordable.” The white, quasi-nautical themed structure sits at the mouth of the buried Garrison Creek. By Monarch Park/Urbancorp, this development was one of the first in the wave of mid-1990s construction.

Leslie Woo