Avani At Metrogate | Graziani + Corazza Architects Inc.

Avani is the 5th condominium tower at the brilliantly master planned Metrogate community. Using extreme measures to remediate possible contaminants, the 17 acre brownfield site was transformed into a mixed-use development, and a vibrant new residential community. Historic in its undertaking, this landmark “green neighborhood” integrates the principles of smart growth, new urbanism and sustainable development into a new international standard for urban design. The vision behind the Metrogate was to create a community of its own identity, with a variety of built forms defining distinct community components with a mixture of townhomes, and high rise residences organized around a 1.65 acre centrally located park. All of the towers were meant to be part of “the birth of a green community” as evidenced by their names; Solaris I and II, Ventus I and II and Avani; which translates to sun, wind + earth.

In partnerships with Tridel; a Toronto builder known for their commitment to building LEED® certified buildings and setting the Canadian standard selling more LEED® candidate suites than any other builder in the GTA of Toronto. The main objective within the client briefing was to ensure that the community planning encompassed green inspired living. A primary design focus for Avani was placed on contemporary and unique design that complemented the existing buildings within the community. The design would take advantage of the views to the central community park and be harmonious in look and feel. All interior spaces and finishes maintain clarity of form. The Avani design was able to accomplish all, plus offer its residences open concept suites allowing for plenty of natural light into their homes, and a tranquil roof top terrace, again leading the focus back to the environment.

Ultimately, with a sense of community being one of the core frameworks for design, a solution was proposed to include, an on-site center for day care overlooking the magnificent 1.65 acre central park. The vibrant atmosphere designed for sustainability with native landscaping, a rainwater collection system that replenishes and restores ground water, also a green roofing system placed in the Avani I residences. This aspect of the design reinforces the identity of the local community and residences. During the construction process it was agreed that 25% of construction and demolition waste was recycled to reduce landfill loads.

The innovation behind the design has enabled Avani at Metrogate to become another addition to one of Canada’s first LEED®-ND communities. LEED®-ND takes green certification beyond individual buildings and applies to the entire neighborhood creating communities that are healthier and more holistic environments to live in. Avani was also awarded LEED® silver in stage two of the LEED® Neighborhood Development (ND) pilot program, under the United States Green Building Council (USG-BC) Having a LEED® building certification allows for energy efficient incentives, and lower GHG emissions. This fosters a green approach to living in our Avani design and creates a sense of community.