Toronto's next two breathtaking flatiron buildings just started construction

Two new flatiron buildings are now officially under construction in Toronto.

A pair of unrelated developments spaced over four kilometres apart will soon form new landmarks that respond to the random wedges formed by the city's often-wonky street grid.

The two projects, located at 717 Church Street and 1071 King Street West, both celebrated ground breaking ceremonies this month, officially kicking off construction for buildings that promise to become the architectural centrepieces of their respective blocks.

Capital Developments' 717 Church project, marketed as Park Road, is set to rise 27 storeys (sold to the public as 28 levels due to a skipped floor) from a wedge-shaped site where Church meets Collier Street.

The 300-unit condo building features a design by architects Diamond Schmitt, which, independent of its actual body of work, has become one of the most criticized firms in the city due to its involvement with the almost universally slammed private Therme mega spa set to replace public lands at Ontario Place.

Don Schmitt, Principal at Diamond Schmitt, stated that the "sculptural tower's" unique site conditions "offered an opportunity to create a new kind of residential experience."

Carlo Timpano, President at Capital Developments, says that "When we started this project, we knew we needed to introduce something unique that would complement this iconic neighbourhood."

This is just one of two flatiron-style projects to break ground this week, along with Hullmark, First Capital, and Woodbourne's new project at 1071 King Street West, which also celebrated a ceremonial sod-turning this week.

The new rental building designed by architects BDP Quadrangle will rise 17 storeys from King and Douro streets, just next to the King Liberty Bridge.

Exciting afternoon attending the groundbreaking for Hullmark’s 1071 King West. A beautiful brick flatiron building right near the future King-Liberty GO station. Can’t wait to see it rise! pic.twitter.com/eQcyNiPuJt

— Alex Glista 🇨🇦 (@AlexanderGlista) July 23, 2024

In contrast to the contemporary finishes of Park Road, the 1071 King West project will feature a more traditional brick palette with a modern twist.

The project will bring 304 rental units to the neighbourhood, including six designated as affordable rentals.