Models Sophisticated Authenticity Speaks To Buyer Image

Models Sophisticated Authenticity Speaks To Buyer

By on Dec 03, 2010

The savvy purchasers at FIVE – Condos at 5 St. Joseph come in all shapes, sizes and ages. But one thing these urbanites have in common is an uncommonly sophisticated outlook on life.


FIVE Condos Toronto MOD Developments


These are people who appreciate the past, revel in the present and dream of the future – and for them, the ideal home involves a modern twist on authenticity. They cherish a design aesthetic that melds heritage and new age elements without sacrificing the integrity of either. Five St. Joseph Developments Ltd. (a joint venture between Graywood Developments Ltd. and the newly formed MOD Developments Inc.) enlisted Cecconi Simone Inc. to capture this unique sentiment in the new, must-see model suite.

“Designing for these purchasers is fascinating,” says Anna Simone. “They are serious about design, but they stray from the mainstream. They are apt to own Jean Paul Gaultier over Prada; Yohji Yamamoto instead of Gucci. They shy away from the expected and have a strong sense of self, which is why FIVE appeals to them. Hariri Pontarini Architects did a magnificent job on the exterior, bringing together the old and new without compromising either. Buyers like the fact that FIVE speaks to the fabric of the city, which is by design rather than chance. We have worked with the team at FIVE for two years, studying the area so that we would all approach our roles with a unified voice. We incorporated this interesting perspective into the interiors, including the model suite.”

The 658 sq. ft. one-bedroom model has what Simone calls a “soul.” She explains, “Like the building exterior, there is a sense of character and personality in the model suite. When you walk through, you feel the design, which makes it memorable. We’ve come a long way from the 1970s and 1980s, where homes were just a place to live. As competition grew in the late 1980s, we saw developers differentiating themselves with features and finishes. By the year 2000, it was all about lifestyle, which everyone defined differently. Then it was the ME generation of purchasers who wanted their individuality to shine. Today that still holds true, but developers understand that superb and timeless design is the critical factor. Five St. Joseph Developments is creating a strong and unique brand with kitchens, bathrooms and architectural features that are unique to this condominium.”

The model’s huge balcony off the main living area and bedroom helps to make this suite live much larger than its square footage, with spectacular views of the city and skyline. The integrated kitchen offers a European flair, and the Miele appliance package is standard. Owners will also enjoy the practicality of the washer/dryer being located in a closet off the kitchen.

With “refined bohemian” in mind, Cecconi Simone chose a décor scheme that marries sleek modern furnishings with industrial-looking light fixtures, and to evoke the past, a touch of whimsy with antiques such as a milking stool. A Persian rug atop the deep chocolate, wide-plank hardwood flooring grounds the room’s sleek modern furnishings in tradition. Straying from the ordinary again, in the bedroom, a metal bed with a leather throw is topped by a headboard crafted from leather straps.

The FIVE team also includes ERA Architects for the building’s heritage elements, and Janet Rosenberg and Associates for the landscaping on the podium roof garden. Cecconi Simone-designed “FIVE ON FIVE” offers the complete package for fitness and fun, and “THE GARDEN ON TWO” is a tempting urban escape.

Graywood is the renowned developer of The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. MOD is led by industry veteran Gary Switzer, the former head of high-rise development at Great Gulf Homes who spearheaded several award-winning landmark condominiums in the city.

Suite choices range from heritage lofts to tower suites, with studios, one-bedroom, one-bedroom + den, two-bedroom and two-bedroom + den layouts, in sizes from 400 to 1,400 sq. ft. Prices start from the mid-$200s.

The Cecconi Simone-designed sales centre and model suite are located within the historic warehouse at 5 St. Joseph Street, just west of Yonge. For hours and more information, call 416-928-0555 or visit www.fivecondos.com.

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