RETAIL & HOSPITALITY DESIGN
SITE CONDITION
Location: 460 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1L7
Category: Hospitality design/ Refurbishment
Surrounding Condition: The site sits in a busy transportation hub, with four bus stops and thoroughfares. Surrounded by restaurants and a convenience store on the east side, it sees a high daily foot traffic. Also, People typically only pass through the site and surrounding area since the buildings lack distinctiveness and no inviting spaces. Enclosed by surrounding buildings, sunlight is blocked, contributing to a sense of depression. Moreover, there's no appealing view to draw people in.
Original building condition: The original building is of brick and concrete structure, hence there are restrictions on window size and limited natural lighting. Additionally, the original floor levels of the two buildings are not aligned, posing challenges for circulation between the two structures.
Client requirements: While maintaining the original exterior appearance, the site was renovated and expanded into a hotel with a retail section, in accordance with zoning bylaws.
PHOTO ESSAY
SITUATION
CONCEPT MODEL
TO OPEN UP THE BUILD-UP AREA
TO CREATE A SPAPCE FOR PEOPLE TO STAY
TO BRING PEOPLE IN
DESIGN DIRECTION
Concept of refurbishment: The main concept of the renovation revolves around opening up this enclosed city block, providing a place for pedestrians to pause and rest. Additionally, through a simple large-scale intervention, both indoor and outdoor individuals can witness the new vitality of this block.
