A new mid-rise development has been proposed for Lawrence Ave East that would bring 155 new residential units, 30% of which would be affordable housing.
The 11-storey project would include the demolition of the Scarborough branch of Destiny and Dominion World Ministries, a pentecostal church, and the retention of an existing six-storey apartment building, which contains 48 units of subsidized rental housing that are to remain on site.
Located on the southwest corner of Lawrence Avenue East and Greencedar Circuit in Toronto's Woburn neighbourhood, the development would sit on a 65,337 sq. ft lot and would provide around 126,000 sq. ft of residential space. Units would consist of 66% one-bedrooms, 24% two-bedrooms, and 10% three-bedrooms.
Rendering via Kindred Works
The developer, Toronto-based Kindred Works, submitted a building application in early-July that is currently pending approval on an expedited timeline. The development, familiarly called “Greencedar”, has been identified as a “Priority Development Review Stream file” as a part of the HousingTO 2020- 2030 Action Plan’s goal of building affordable housing fast.
Known for their focus on prioritising accessibility and sustainability in their projects, Kindred Works is collaborating with KPMB Architects and MHBC Planning to produce “a safety and people focused design,” according to the Kindred Works website. This design would include “family-friendly amenities,” a “large courtyard,” the use of passive ventilation and daylight to “create a healthy living environment,” and “ample interior and exterior amenity space.”
Rendering via Kindred Works
In line with their commitment to sustainability, Kindred Work's plans also include Zero On-Site Carbon, plus geothermal heating is being explored in the development process. In addition, accessibility would be top of mind, with "one third of the new units [...] targeted to be barrier-free."
If completed, it seems 3379-3385 Lawrence Ave East could provide the Scarborough neighbourhood with much needed housing that is not only affordable, but sustainable, accessible, and attractive.
