Originate Developments and partner, Harlo Capital, have collaborated with Toronto Raptors player, Scottie Barnes, on a new 18-storey, mixed-use development nestled between two of the most iconic streets in Toronto, King West, and Queen West.
Imagined as a juxtaposition between the energetic entertainment scene of King West, the laid-back cultural scene of Queen West, to the calm and comfort of Richmond West, the project, Reside on Richmond, will see a heritage facade and roofline fully restored and preserved at grade, topped by a contemporary tower.
With a desire to add to the rich cultural tapestry of Bathurst and Richmond, Barnes is joining a team that includes architecture firm Kirkor Architects and Planners, and interior design firm Truong Ly Design, to deliver a building that sets a new standard for modern city living.
While actively contributing his vision to the project, Barnes, proud Toronto resident and recipient of the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2022, is not only lending his name to the project, but is also choosing Reside on Richmond as his future home. He is also personally involved in designing the sports stimulator room, providing residents with cutting edge facilities to play and train.
As a mixed-use project, the building’s architectural design is crafted to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding urban fabric, while preserving the heritage building on the corner. Each stage of the project incorporates thoughtful design elements and materials to produce an appealing and contextually sensitive development, while ensuring a cohesive blend of the old and new.
The project features a commercial frontage along Bathurst Street, with a striking six-storey podium. A corner retail space reimagines an existing heritage building on site, incorporating a mezzanine level intended for a combination restaurant and boutique grocer. The tower’s clean lines and dark metal panels provide a contemporary contrast to the brick design.
Upon entering the building, residents are greeted by a lobby that doubles as a comfortable lounge area. The open space features carefully selected artwork and seating arrangements. Continuing through the corridor, residents encounter an integrated reception desk and semi-open mail space with reflective surfaces. Adjacent to the mail area, a distinctive lounge with natural light provides an ideal spot to collect mail, engage in conversation, or simply unwind.
Moving around the heritage structure onto Richmond Street, a shorter, four-storey podium adopts a lower profile to harmoniously integrate with the adjacent residential neighbourhood. The main drop-off area and residential lobby are located along Richmond Street, catering to the needs of future residents.
The building boasts three levels of amenities. The programming includes a party room, games room, co-working space with private meeting rooms, a gym, yoga studio, and more.
The party room features soft seating, a fireplace, dining area, and kitchen; while the games room resembles a sports bar lounge, featuring table games, digital arcade games, high-top seating, as well as smart use of reflective surfaces to create a sense of openness. The co-working spaces include semi-private glazing with texture glass, darker tiles, and black accents on the walls.
Throughout the interior, signature elements tie disparate spaces together. Blonde wood, large format porcelain tiles with a natural slate-like texture, linear lights and cove lighting are all used to accentuate the architecture’s geometry. On the rooftop, a creative installation transforms what is usually a mechanical unit into an architectural feature that offers a diversity of experiences. Vertical slats create a visually intriguing composition, while staggered sliced boxes serve as cabanas. Planters with a Corten steel esthetic and character complement the historical brick.
“Working with Scottie Barnes on Reside on Richmond is an incredibly exciting opportunity for Originate Developments and Harlo Capital,” says Adam Sheffer, partner, Originate Developments. “Barnes is a successful pro athlete who embodies a vibrant and active lifestyle that aligns with the project’s vision, which is to reflect the dynamic lifestyle of this neighbourhood, prioritizing design excellence and urban convenience to enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
“I love Toronto, the diversity it offers and the sense of community it brings, and I am thrilled to team with Originate Developments and Harlo Capital on the Reside on Richmond project.” Says Barnes. “As an athlete, I am always seeking new ways to innovate, and this collaboration allows me to bring that energy to creating a space that can truly inspire the residents. I am especially excited about designing the state of the arts sports stimulator room where residents can play, train, and stay active. Together, we are building something incredible for the community and I can’t wait to see it all come to life.”
Barnes, Originate Developments and Harlo Capital plan to share more details soon on how their collaboration will take shape as fall approaches.
