News

X2

LOCATION: Downtown Toronto

BUILDERS: Great Gulf Homes and Lifetime Developments

SIZE: 400 to more than 1,600 square feet

PRICE: Low $200,000s to over $800,000

CONTACT: To register, phone 416-927-0080 or visit www.x2condos.com

With just a handful of units left in its stylish X condominium now under construction downtown, Great Gulf Homes and Lifetime Developments has decided to release a second phase for the infill development tomorrow.

This will add roughly 478 suites to the community – situated at Jarvis and Charles streets, just south of Bloor Street. The new 42-storey tower will stand just south of its sister tower, X, The Condominium.

“We've had a great response from the sales of X, so we're very excited about this,” says Brian Brown, vice-president of Lifetime Developments. “When you look at the skyline – especially from Bloor – they'll stand out and be very unique.”

X2 Condominiums, Toronto

It seems Mr. Brown isn't the only one excited about X2. Earlier this week, scuffles broke out among competing lines of real estate agents and brokers, some of whom had been lined up on the sidewalk since Nov. 15 for a chance to get first crack at the condos.

Wallman Architects designed the black steel tower to complement the first high-rise within the complex, which is within walking distance of public transit and theatres, as well as trendy restaurants along Church and upscale boutiques in Yorkville.

“It's a great neighbourhood,” says Mr. Brown. “You're a block away from Bloor [Street] and Yorkville.”

The tower's placement will provide a scenic backdrop visible from floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies of many units. “We're at the top of a valley,” says Mr. Brown, “so looking south of the building, you have very clear views to the lake. It's unlikely that any of the land south of us will be redeveloped with tall towers that would block that view.”

Cecconi Simone Inc. will dress all the interiors, beginning with a two-storey lobby featuring zebra tiles and a variety of light sources, including a horse-shaped lamp. “They really pushed the design … to make sure it was very attractive when you came in,” says Mr. Brown.

On the ninth floor, there will be a fitness area with yoga, cardio, weight and training rooms, plus an entertaining space with a kitchen, bar, dining and lounge areas and a billiards room.

To enjoy the outdoors, there will be a rooftop garden with a pool, sundeck and seating areas. “There's also a library/lounge … right by the windows, so that you have a great view of what's going on outside even if you want to stay inside,” adds Mr. Brown.

For privacy, residents can retreat to individual suites ranging from 400 to more than 1,600 square feet. There will be studios, one-bedroom plans, one-bedroom-plus-den models and two-bedroom layouts, though units can be combined.

“There's been interest in … the smaller units all the way to the larger units,” says Mr. Brown.

Most models will be open concept with linear kitchens and sliding bedroom doors, while select units will have semi-en-suite bathrooms.

Upscale features will be standard, such as nine-foot ceilings and pre-finished engineered flooring in the combined living and dining areas, foyer and kitchen.

The kitchens will be equipped with granite or Corian counters, chic cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, as well as two-tiered islands. Buyers can get upgrade islands with sections that lift up to create one level surface.

Monthly fees will be 47 cents a square foot.

Parking for select suites and lockers will cost $37,500 and $3,950 respectively.

The move-in date is November, 2013.

Special to The Globe and Mail