Overview
A blank canvas in Toronto’s Tippett Regeneration Area doubles as the testing ground for a new, complete way of living. TRETTI is a social, environmental and experiential strategy of city-building that adopts the best practices of northern European design. Introducing an eco-friendly, affordable, and human-scaled lifestyle to the heart of Wilson Heights, TRETTI captures the progressive ideals that have made Scandinavian cities some of the happiest on the planet, employing an acute focus on placemaking to create an egalitarian, hyperlocal and truly complete community.
TRETTI exemplifies the development principles envisioned for the Tippett Regeneration Area by CreateTO and the City of Toronto, who drew the blueprint for the integrated and mixed-use community now taking shape. Using functional and smart design to enhance livability, coupled with assets specifically curated to meet the diverse needs of its residents, TRETTI gracefully executes the framework established by these important civic partners.
The contemporary and organic architecture of TRETTI responds to the walkable streetscapes of Oslo, Stockholm and Copenhagen, translating the characteristics of these rich urban environments into a Toronto context. The result is a carefully crafted living experience supported by multi-functional interiors, ample daylight, and a robust connection to the outdoors via green rooftops and a sprawling eighth floor terrace. At 13 storeys, TRETTI is a modest and human-scaled development punctuated by architectural setbacks and ground-level amenities, which animates the public realm and enhances safety with constant “eyes on the street.” An expansive family-friendly amenity package caters to the desires of all residents, and features a fully equipped fitness studio, yoga space, party room, co-working space, indoor pet-friendly play area, and indoor and outdoor children’s play areas.
Acknowledging that buildings are a contributor to climate change, TRETTI embraces a low-carbon future by employing an innovative geothermal heating and cooling system that will produce 70 percent less greenhouse gases, use about 40 percent less energy than a traditional HVAC system, and save over five million litres of water every year. The geothermal system is complemented by several other green gestures, including two private courtyards sporting drought-tolerant landscapes, absorbing stormwater runoff and reducing clean water irrigation waste by 60 percent. A 29,000-square-foot central park features hardscaping to reduce the urban heat island effect and offers places for rest, recreation, and social interaction. Dedicated bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations assist in the proliferation of a strong local multi-modal transportation network. These environmentally conscious features are all part of creating a healthy, holistic community for the greater good, a common understanding of how our individual actions impact the people and the world around us.
Illustrating our commitment to social sustainability, 50 affordable residences at TRETTI will give the gift of home ownership to more Toronto families. The broader Tippett Regeneration Area will receive a total of 200 affordable homes from Collecdev. Complete communities are defined by their inhabitants, who come from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. Providing a range of housing types ensures the long-term accessibility and prosperity of the neighbourhood, allowing all families to participate and benefit from this trailblazing community. A pioneering force in building affordable housing, Collecdev provided a personal touch to the homebuying process, meeting one-on-one with each prospective purchaser to answer questions and alleviate any concerns. The majority of TRETTI residents already live and rent in the community, and are ready to put down their roots and invest in the security of home ownership.
Our contribution to affordable housing at TRETTI became the genesis of Collecdev H.O.M.E. (Home Ownership Made Easy), a collaboration between all three levels of government. Connecting deserving families with payment- and interest-free down payment assistance loans, the program delivers the dream of home ownership to current renters. Homeowners under the program pay up to 6.5 percent down, representing massive savings compared to the traditional 20 percent down payment required. The loan remains payment- and interest-free as long as the homeowner continues to reside in the condominium. The partnership between governments and Collecdev engendered the City of Toronto’s Open Door Affordable Housing Program, resulting in Collecdev being recognized as a Champion of Affordable Housing.
Located in a mature neighbourhood already defined by relationships to its surroundings, TRETTI features a near-perfect transit score of 98 and convenient access to Wilson, Yorkdale and Sheppard West subway stations, with additional connections to GO Transit, Allen Road, and Highway 401. TRETTI reinforces and heightens the best characteristics of the neighbourhood, serving as the linchpin of a vibrant, forward-thinking, mixed-use community with new public roads, pedestrian and cycling connections, park spaces, and neighbourhood amenities. TRETTI represents the best of both worlds—a multi-layered lifestyle catered to the individual but fostered by social connectedness—a complete community espousing distinctly Scandanavian design with a familiar Toronto address.
Gallery
Sustainable Features
Sustainability essentially aims for ecological balance.
Neighbourhood
TRETTI is truly the best of all worlds – Scandinavian inspired, Toronto based, in the heart of Wilson Heights, near Yorkdale, and linked to TTC subway. Live in a charming community bursting with local businesses, family-friendly outdoors, and urban amenities that keep you connected to anything and everything.Broker Portal
Enter password to view the broker portal
Latest Blogs
Latest
Step by step, floor by floor, and with the unwavering commitment to quality workmanship, innovation and excellence that has become a signature of Collecdev...
Step by step, floor by floor, and with the unwavering commitment to quality workmanship, innovation and excellence that has become a signature of Collecdev construction, the Scandinavian-inspired lifestyle at TRETTI is coming to life. Here are the latest construction updates from the site:
- Exterior landscaping is 70% complete, with planters and plants taking root.
- The building is now fully enclosed – including roofing, window wall, curtain wall and EIFS (the Exterior Insulation Finishing System).
- The underground parking garage is complete and EV charging stations have been installed.
- Drywall installation is complete in the amenity spaces on the ground floor and in suites up to the 7th floor.
- Elevator installation is ongoing, preparing to move residents quickly and efficiently to their front door.
- Bathroom flooring, wall tile and vanity millwork is complete up to the 6th floor creating the background for the thoughtful and balanced spaces that combine timeless design with a Scandinavian flair.
- Kitchen millwork has been installed up to the 6th floor, a gourmet space that will inspire your inner chef.
- First occupancy dates are scheduled for early 2023.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates coming soon as we move on to completing the upper floor amenity spaces and suites at this incredible community.
Italy, Canada, Sweden, Spain, New Zealand, Denmark, France, USA. No, it’s not the roster of attendees for the next G20 summit, rather, it’s the impressive international background of the latest powerhouse brands announced at Yorkdale. Ten more of the world’s most exciting names in fashion, athletics, beauty and fragrance are opening their doors at Canada’s leading retail destination including Emporio Armani, Ganni, Fendi, Acne Studio, Alo Yoga, Allbirds, Diptyque, and Mejuri.
Yorkdale is no stranger to headline-making retail. In the last two decades, Oxford Properties has invested over $500 million to fund five separate expansions. The internationally-renowned shopping centre boasts the densest clustering of luxury brands in Canada, and, in 2021, added a 25,000 square foot Nike flagship store – the largest Nike store in Canada – as well as Canada’s first Alexander McQueen and Celine boutiques. Many other stores, including Cartier, Bulgari, David Yurman, OVO, Tory Burch, Burberry, and Browns, are also getting a facelift with renovations or relocations to larger spaces in the mall, a great sign for strong continued growth.
With a constantly-expanding footprint, the 18 million annual visitors may need Yorkdale’s interactive site map to navigate the retail labyrinth, but for neighbourhood residents, like those at TRETTI and Nørdic, Yorkdale’s spacious retail halls will start to feel like a second home – the perfect place to pop in and pick up a gift, shop a new look, meet friends for lunch, or simply get in your 10,000 steps, strolling through 2 million square feet, surrounded by the world’s most beloved brands.
Whether you wear stilettos or sneakers, whether your tastes run high street or haute couture, you’ll be awed by the offerings at Yorkdale. Meet the newest additions to the retail neighbourhood.
Emporio Armani
Italian luxury brand Giorgio Armani is opening its only Canadian location for Emporio Armani later this year in Yorkdale’s expansion wing. Keep your eyes peeled for easy elegance that blurs the lines between the sexes.
Ganni
The Danish brand that’s built a cult following on social media, brings its quirky and exuberant aesthetic to Canada with an outpost at Yorkdale.
Fendi
The Italian luxury fashion house will make the move out of Holt Renfrew to a stand-alone space, steeped in the brand’s signature contemporary allure.
Acne Studio
Watch for Scandinavian-inspired men’s and women’s ready-to-wear apparel, denim, footwear, and accessories in Acne’s minimal retail space with edgy and colourful stylings.
Alo Yoga
The Los Angeles-based yoga brand will launch its second-ever international store, in Yorkdale, later this Fall, with a grand opening that will feature private shopping, acro yoga performances, beauty and wellness treatments, and special gifting moments.
OFFLINE
There’s even more activewear options with the opening of OFFLINE by Aerie, boasting a well-rounded collection of pieces for working out, getting to and from the studio, and all the places in between.
Mango
The first Canadian outpost of this super popular Spanish brand will land in nearly 11,000 square feet near Hudson’s Bay and Harry Rosen.
Allbirds
Allbirds has made its nest at Yorkdale. Shoppers can now find the world’s most comfortable shoes, flats, and clothing made from merino wool and eucalyptus in the Centre of Style.
Diptyque
The new 484-square-foot Diptyque boutique will let visitors explore a Parisian apartment, where tradition meets imagination and fantasy in shelves lined with scented candles, personal fragrance, and unique objects for the home.
Mejuri
The famed Canadian jewelry-brand that does fine jewelry differently, will soon open a second bricks and mortar space in Toronto where shoppers can experience the feel of the design and craftsmanship that’s become synonymous with the brand.
Stay connected and in the know of all TRETTI and Nørdic news by following us on Instagram, and Twitter and liking us on Facebook.
Blogs
A new community is forming around Wilson subway station in northwest Toronto, replacing former surface parking and lower-density commercial and light industrial buildings with new medium-density, mostly residential development. Among the firms reshaping this burgeoning pocket of the city is Collecdev, who have a pair of active projects in the area. The further along of the two is Tretti Condos, a 13-storey, gh3-designed development playfully given the Norwegian word for 30, its address on Tippett Road, just south of WIlson Avenue, while on Wilson Avenue itself, Collecdev has just started work on Nordic Condos, continuing the Scandinavian theme.
Panorama of below-grade forming at Tretti site, image by Forum contributor drum118
Construction commenced on Tretti in 2019, and following excavation work, forming work has been progressing gradually through the months since, impacted somewhat by the Covid situation. While sections of Tretti’s four-level underground garage have now taken shape, the pit also extends to the south beyond the footprint of the 13-storey condo, as the Tretti site is to also host a pair of rental buildings, dubbed Tippett Park phases 1 and 2. The 14-storey first phase is currently under construction along with the condo, while the phase 2 rental building remains in pre-construction, filed under a different City planning application.
Below-grade forming at Tretti site, image by Forum contributor drum118
The site is one of several Collecdev projects set to make use of a closed-loop geothermal system that cycles a mix of antifreeze and water through pipes buried in the ground, utilizing the constant temperatures below the surface to heat buildings in winter months and cool them in summer months. To better understand the system, we spoke with Jon Mesquita, partner and co-founder of Diverso Energy, the company handling the geothermal work for Tretti. “The closed-loop geothermal system at Tretti Condos is expected to eliminate 225 tons of CO² and save 3.3M litres of drinking water annually, while reducing overall building energy consumption by 20%,” Mesquita told us.
Tretti Condos, image courtesy of Collecdev
Work on the geothermal system was among the first activity at the site, with Mesquita saying “The geothermal bore-field was installed prior to any building construction. The holes were predrilled and the pipes were capped and cut just below final grade. This allowed for excavation to proceed as normal, and once they reached final grade, we came back in and connected our pipes together. That minimized the impact to Collecdev’s construction schedule. The remainder of the geothermal system—manifold, pumps, and controls—will be completed and connected to the building’s mechanical system closer to building completion and occupancy.”
Sustainability features at Tretti Condos, image courtesy of Collecdev
Similar work is being carried out by another geothermal contractor a short distance away, for Collecdev’s next addition to the neighbourhood in the upcoming Nordic Condos project. As site preparation work clears the existing buildings from the Wilson Avenue site of that 12-storey residential complex, drilling rigs are working away on boreholes for its geothermal system, in a process illustrated with photos in a recent construction update.
Demolition and geothermal drilling continue at nearby Nordic Condos site, image by Forum contributor drum118
You can learn more from our Database files for the projects mentioned, linked below. If you’d like to, you can join in on the conversation in the associated Project Forum threads, or leave a comment in the space provided on this page.
Source: Urban Toronto
The Danes have a saying, “bo bedre,” which means “live better.” It’s the driving force behind TRETTI and Nørdic, two amazing new Collecdev...
The Danes have a saying, “bo bedre,” which means “live better.” It’s the driving force behind TRETTI and Nørdic, two amazing new Collecdev communities, designed to help more people live smarter, live better, live happier than ever before. This month these projects received industry kudos, nominated for two CHBA National Awards:
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) National Awards for Housing Excellence recognize the best in Canadian new homes, home renovations, community development, and marketing. “These nominations place us among a distinguished group,” said Collecdev President, Maurice Wager, upon hearing the news. “The CBHA is the voice of the residential construction industry in Canada and to be recognized by them is a testament to the incredible communities we’re bringing to life.”
TRETTI and Nørdic, have received an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from the market, impressing purchasers and industry insiders with their holistic approach to development. Inspired by Scandinavian cities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo, the communities combine great design and inspiring amenities, with direct access to transit and a strong connection to nature, creating human-centric environments that promote a healthier and happier way to live.
TRETTI’s nomination for outstanding excellence in a Mid- to High-Rise Condominium Project reflects the extensive planning and vision that has gone into the site. CreateTO, a team of real estate professionals working with the City of Toronto to manage its real estate portfolio, worked closely with Collecdev to develop a community plan for the lands at 30 Tippett which were sold to Collecdev in 2015.
The development aligns with the City’s overall vision for the Tippett Regeneration Area and includes provisions for new public services, roads, parks, and infrastructure, along with the 13-storey condominium and two purpose-built rental buildings, Tippett Park Phase 1 and Tippett Park Phase 2. A collection of suites has been designated for Collecdev H.O.M.E – Home Ownership Made Easy., the affordable ownership program developed in partnership with the Government of Canada, Ontario and the City of Toronto, that puts good living within reach for more first-time buyers. And sustainable building systems like geothermal energy and green roofs reduce the carbon footprint and create long-term value for residents. These elements, combined with convenient transit, an emphasis on the outdoors, and engaging amenities, make TRETTI a truly complete community, a place residents will be proud to call home.
Finding an affordable condo near public transit isn’t easy these days. And finding one that also boasts of noteworthy architecture and plentiful green space,...
Finding an affordable condo near public transit isn’t easy these days. And finding one that also boasts of noteworthy architecture and plentiful green space, is a major accomplishment.
Tretti Condos, steps from Wilson subway station, claims to tick all of those boxes. Designed by gh3*, the uniquely shaped building with a gently curving spine and three “wings” stepped down from the roofline offers sheltered courtyards where children have a playground and adults have outdoor space. Plus, there’s a wide pedestrian path and 11,000 square feet of ground floor retail.
The suites are designed to maximize natural light, with views of lush landscaping. Interior designer Carmen Dragomir, of esQape Design, placed bedrooms on either side of the central living and kitchen area to give them a more spacious feel.
“Design has a certain way of shaping our lives, our sensibility, our behaviour, even our emotions,” Dragomir says, noting she kept that in mind at Tretti.
LIVEABILITY
The liveability factor was also important for Maurice Wager, the developer Collecdev’s president. Generally, units aren’t getting bigger these days, he says. “And if you reduce the size, you have to make sure the layout works.”
Tretti’s 340 suites have a standard package that includes stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, and porcelain tiles in the bathrooms.
The amenity package, also designed by Dragomir, is generous as well. There’s a fitness studio, a party room with a catering kitchen and access to an outdoor terrace and BBQs. In addition, the condos have a 24-hour concierge service, a co-working station and private meeting rooms.
Millennials and families are expected to be among the buyers and so Wager wanted to include space for those who work from home and family-friendly features such as an indoor/outdoor playground and a pet-grooming studio.
At just 13 storeys, Tretti falls between a mid- and high-rise height, and makes the 340 suites feel reasonably spread out.
Architect Raymond Chow, principle of gh3* which also designed the Rocket condo down the street from Tretti, says the courtyards help with that human scale, “by breaking down the overall mass of the building, and stepping down from the 13-storey height toward the park.”
Green space plays an important role here, shielding the community from the noise and congestion of the Allen Expressway, and connecting the neighbourhood to the Wilson subway station with a path for pedestrians and cyclists. And a park by the front door is connected to a 16,000-square-foot green space.
Wilson Heights itself, is a neighbourhood in flux. It was earmarked for regeneration in 2015 on the city’s master plan. Wager snapped up the plot of land by the subway in 2016. And the following year, the University-Spadina subway line was extended to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre.
From the beginning, Wager envisioned a site that would be beautiful, affordable and a good place to live. And given his background in architecture and urban planning — from the University of Toronto — he was also committed to a development that was energy efficient.
To increase Tretti’s natural insulating power, it will be built with more solid wall as opposed to glass. A geothermal heating and cooling system will use 40 per cent less energy than conventional HVAC systems, reduce water consumption by 50 million gallons per year, and is expected to cut overall carbon footprint by more than 70 per cent.
ROOF-TOP FUN
Green roofs will reduce the heat island effect, divert stormwater run-off for collection in cisterns (to be reused for irrigation) — and provide a lush backdrop to the rooftop space with its BBQs and cabanas. And the staggered balconies will attract more light in the winter when the sun is lower on the horizon, while limiting light in the summer when the sun is higher.
No discussion of liveability can be had without talking affordability, Wager insists. He’s devised a program called Collecdev H.O.M.E (home ownership made easy) in collaboration with Toronto Affordable Housing Office, which offers an interest-free, down payment assistance loan.
“A lot of people can make monthly payments,” reasons Wager, “because a mortgage isn’t dissimilar from paying rent, but the big barrier is that 15-20 per cent deposit.” The loan is being offered with strings – you must currently be a tenant, and a first-time homebuyer with a maximum household income of $88,900.
The condos are priced from the mid-$400,000s and occupancy is slated for August 2021.
To register and for more information phone 416-640-2543, email info@collecdev.com, or visit website collecdev.com/developments/tretti-condos/
YOU ARE HERE
1) Getting around. A new urban park, with pedestrian and cycling trails is being created in the area. And the Finch West LRT expansion will add 18 new stops.
2) Get smart. York University and Seneca College’s York U satellite campus are 10 minutes away. And the Downsview Aerospace Innovation and Research Hub – a joint project with academics and industry – is being built at the nearby Downsview Park.
3) Looking for fun? The Barry Zuckerman Amphitheatre offers theatre and music. Black Creek Pioneer Village provides a window on the past. And Fountainhead Park has tennis courts and a multipurpose sports field.
Source: National Post