It’s already begun and it’s just going to get bigger and better.
What are we talking about? Toronto’s Waterfront Development of course!
Plans have been in motion for years now, and changes can already be seen. No longer a post-industrial, forgotten area of the city – the Toronto waterfront has transformed into a vibrant community, whose new architectural and public space developments are gaining international attention. Among the revitalization projects (including all three phases of Pier 27!) are a pedestrian and cyclist bridge, a visitor’s centre, and a park beneath the Gardiner. While all of this new development is under way in our city – let’s take a look at five waterfront developments from around the world that we love right now.
Chicago – Millennium Park
Image via John Fellner on Flickr
Chicago’s Millennium Park was built above bus lanes, parking garages, and a rail yard. Technically, the 17-acre park is the world’s largest roof garden! Millennium Park opened in 2004 and features architecture from Franky Gehry, and an Anish Kapoor sculpture.
Copenhagen
Image via Lundgaard & Tranberg
Always at the helm of innovative urban development, Copenhagen’s waterfront is at the forefront of the discussion. Featuring soybean silos that have been transformed into high-end apartments, a glossy new extension to the Royal Library, and an updated urban space centred around the new Royal Danish Playhouse – the bar has certainly been raised.
Oslo – Fjord City
The Fjord City development has given Oslo two new waterfront districts. Beginning with the new Opera House in Bjørvika, other projects in the surrounding area have been developing over the last 12 years, and continuing into the years to come. The districts have now seen the expansion of apartments, offices, and recreational spaces as well.
Sydney – Barangaroo Masterplan
Image via Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners
Sydney’s massive waterfront revitalization project has next moved to Barangaroo district and Darling Harbour. The project includes up to 1,500 new homes, luxurious buildings, high-quality office space, innovative culture facilities, and a new ferry terminal.
Toronto – Waterfront Revitalization
Torontonians have watched since 2001 as the city’s vast waterfront has been renewed and transformed. While the project is still ongoing, there’s a lot that has already been done. So far we’ve seen an increase in public transit available in the area, improvements to the Island airport, as well as other surrounding infrastructure. Our developer, Cityzen, has also played a role in the waterfront revitalization with the development of Pier 27 Phases 1 and 2, and soon our tower on the lake. Once all three phases of Pier 27 are complete, an entire new neighbourhood will have blossomed down by Lake Ontario. We’re really excited to see how progress continues down at the Toronto waterfront over the next few years.