When Monarch Corporation and The Goldman Group set out to create something new and different in condominium living in downtown Toronto, they turned to an artistic icon for inspiration. Picasso Condos on Richmond will offer a fresh, edgy silhouette that pushes the design envelope, yet is grounded in timeless classical principles. In the heart of the evolving Entertainment District, Picasso takes its place among many other iconic buildings, including the Frank Gehry-redesigned Art Gallery of Ontario.
To create such a masterpiece, the developers of Picasso knew they would need a special design team. Governor General Award-winning Teeple Architects was entrusted to design the building’s exterior – and the result is stunning. According to Stephen Teeple, “Picasso occupies one of the most significant sites in downtown Toronto. Situated at the foot of Beverly Street, and at the head of Widmer Street, along the north side of Richmond, the building will be seen as an urban icon in relation to other landmark downtown buildings.”
The design is appropriately abstract. Teeple explains this architectural response to the condominium’s urban surroundings. “Floating cubic white volumes shift upward and are accentuated by a dramatic red cut that jogs around each building face. These forms extend from a 10-storey base that animates Richmond Street with three floors of high-end retail and commercial space.” The terrace and the roofs of the cubic volumes are planted with unique themed gardens in order to create a vertical landscape that Teeple calls “an abstracted reference to the natural form of a mountain.”
Teeple adds, “The condominium offers a unique residential environment in downtown Toronto. Owners have living spaces that project out over the city, retail spaces and amenities at their fingertips, and spectacular views for a highly cultured, sophisticated urban living experience.”
That experience begins in the contemporary open-air lobby, which recreates an art gallery ambience with light-coloured iridescent surfaces enhanced by flashes of indirect light. Attentive concierge service is provided from this striking space. Picasso’s 10th floor is amenity heaven, with a chic party lounge featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that provide an ever-changing seasonal display as a background. This floor also includes a bar and lounge areas, billiards room, yoga and fitness studio, media lounge, dining room, spa and sauna areas. And just imagine continuing the party with a moonlit stroll on the spacious outdoor terrace, which has cabanas and a walk-up deck to a hot-water oasis – all in the midst of panoramic city and lake views. Suites surround owners in luxurious features and finishes.
This coveted area represents tremendous value. The Osgoode Subway Station is only a five-minute walk from Picasso, which is also only blocks away from Little Italy, Kensington Market, Chinatown, St. Lawrence District, Financial District, Harbourfront, and many of the city’s best cultural, sports and entertainment venues.
Monarch Corporation and The Goldman Group are two of the oldest and most prestigious real estate companies in Canada. Over its 90 years, Monarch has earned a reputation for delivering outstanding homes in prime sought-after locations. The Goldman Group of Companies has made a name in the Toronto land development and building industry by striving for perfection through even the most minute of details. This powerhouse duo brought all their expertise and experience to bring Picasso to life.