Design Intent
NAK Design Strategies has been part of the remarkable transformation of the Toronto Regent Park neighbourhood into an innovative, mixed-income, and mixed-use community since 2008. Working with the Toronto Community Housing Corporation and the Daniels Corporation, NAK has provided conceptual design, drawings for approvals and construction, and contract administration for numerous landscape projects in the public and private realm. Projects have ranged from the rooftop amenity spaces and community gardens of LEED-rated multi-family residences to new parks and retail spaces that invite the greater community back into the neighbourhood.
The redevelopment of Regent Park is an evolution of a transitional community into a stable residential community. The past nature of this neighbourhood made it susceptible to isolation from the rest of the city; however, the changes made will unite this community with its surrounding population. Along these lines, changes made to the community also reflect the goals of Toronto’s Clean and Beautiful City Campaign, which strives to create communities that are simultaneously sustainable, eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing to improve overall quality of life. In addition, this redevelopment is also a solution to the aging and costly nature of Regent Park, making it more cost-efficient going forward. The redevelopment will include double the number of units originally in place which will bring in more revenue as well as creating more possibility for economic growth within the area. The new and improved Regent Park will encompass a mix of market condos, affordable housing units as well as vibrant new retail and community spaces.
Awards
2011 Toronto Urban Design Award of Excellence (One Cole)
2011 Toronto Urban Design Award Honourable Mention (620 Dundas Street East Townhouses)
2010 FCM Sustainable Communities Award
