Welcome to LeftBank – one of Toronto's most buzzworthy developments in the emerging River District

By NextHome Staff
August 17, 2020
If location is (still) everything, then Toronto's Downtown East is a pocket unlike anywhere else in the city. Surrounded by stunning greenspaces and an award-winning trail system, the River District offers new one-of-a-kind cafes and restaurants and a transit connection that makes the downtown and other key destinations across the GTA easily accessible.This prime blend of neighbourhood characteristics is the inspiration behind LeftBank, the newest development by Broccolini, the company's second project in Downtown East. The River District – named for the stunning topography and naturalized spaces in the area – is undergoing an incredible revitalization, marking a thrilling new chapter and identity for the neighbourhood."When you step into the Downtown East, there's a really tangible energy that we were captivated by immediately," says Anthony Broccolini, COO, Broccolini. "It was this incredible spirit and transformation that we aimed to capture through LeftBank – from the building's presence in the east end skyline, to our investment into smart technologies and amenities that make sense for life today. This is the place and time to be in this part of Toronto."LeftBank is located off of River Street, directly above the Don River, and will stand at 34-storeys once complete. The third project in a collaborative trilogy with the renowned architects at IBI Group, LeftBank doesn't shy away from using bold form, colour palettes or materials, resulting in a strong, sleek and confident design that needs no introduction. The black and white exterior features an iconic sail-like mast with a tapered architectural element that intersects with the building, sure to be a staple in Toronto's east end skyline for decades to come.There's an abundant green ribbon already wrapping the River District, and LeftBank is incorporated into and enhances this existing system, recognizing the importance of greenspaces for the human spirit. A new linear park on the south side of LeftBank extends the area's park series and connects to the Don River and the nearby ravine network of walking trails, where you can head up to Evergreen Brick Works, beloved for its sustainability programming and farmers' market.Retail spaces will be included at grade for new boutique shops or cafes, and widened sidewalks with newly planted trees will make for an enjoyable pedestrian experience. As the area continues to transform, the upcoming East Harbour transit hub will increase the connectivity in the already easily accessible neighbourhood and will create upwards of 70,000 jobs alongside new entertainment, dining and cultural options.While LeftBank's location is unmatched anywhere else in the city, the interiors by Patton Design rise to the challenge of embodying the essence of the River District. Drawing inspiration from mid-century, quirky design out of Milan and the industrial, raw qualities from the neighbourhood's history, interiors feature sleek metals in contrast with softer muted pink and orange pastels. Walking into the lobby, residents will be immediately taken by the monolithic feel, high ceilings, bronze and charcoal clad columns, warm lighting and oversized porcelain tiles. The reception desk uses stone with lavender veining for an unexpected pop of colour. Across from the desk, three built-in banquettes offer individual seating with a pod-like effect."We wanted to do something different in our design for LeftBank and lean into some of the raw qualities of the neighbourhood along with the tech-savvy nature of the building," says Sean Swayze of Patton Design. "It's bold and it's sleek and it's also unexpected. These qualities combine for a really spectacular final look and feel as soon as you walk into the lobby and arrive home."There's something for everyone at LeftBank, with suites offered in studio, one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, two- and three-bedroom layouts, making this an ideal home for families, young couples, singles and downsizers alike. The suites extend the lobby's language of design, featuring colour-blocking in the kitchen with wood tones, and a geometric ceramic backsplash continuing the retro-Italian inspired vibe. Urban bathrooms continue the use of wood tones and include oversized porcelain tiles with a custom vanity wall for sleek impact.LeftBank marks Broccolini's investment into the Downtown East and into smart technologies. Using the Home by Broccolini system via a suite wall pad or smart phone app, residents can access a series of features designed to simplify everyday living. Select features include granting guests' entry, enabling alarms, accessing private amenity spaces and receiving parcel notifications. Home by Broccolini also offers a digital door lock, a leak detector, and upgrade features such as lighting and blind control. The entire building (suites, common and amenity areas) will be outfitted with high-speed internet.The world has been a tumultuous place lately, and there's no place like home – so LeftBank's amenity program is extremely forward-thinking, giving residents everything they need. Seeking time and space for reprieve? The terrace with waterfront views is an option, or there's the yoga studio with juice bar, meditation room and Zen garden to help silence the mind. Online shopping getting you through a rough week? The parcel locker room means your package will arrive safely and securely and will be stored carefully, keeping your items in pristine condition.Starting or maintaining a health journey? Step into the fully-equipped fitness studio and exceed your personal goals. Working at home and finding it tough? There's a co-working lounge so you can maintain boundaries in the workplace, and a kids' zone where your children can play and make new friends. Finally tackling the to-do list? Head on down to the tool annex, where you can make all your DIY dreams come true… or just fine-tune your bicycle. Hosting or just looking for some leisure time? Enjoy the private theatre, gaming lounge or speakeasy. Let's not forget the dog spa, where all of the doggies are welcome to enjoy some pooch pampering.At a glance, LeftBank has it all. Location, architecture and design, smart tech convenience and expertly planned amenities create a multifaceted property that has something for everyone. Beyond these superb features, the family-owned developer's legacy and track-record of success speak for themselves."We put our name on everything we build, and that means a lot to us. When you buy in a Broccolini building, you can rest assured in the quality of the product from start to finish," says Anthony Broccolini.broccolini.com

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