Sunday 6 January 2013

Award-Winning Buildings Are Deserving Of Recognition

Jan 4, 2013 -- In study after study, when referring to engaging in business, branding, reputation, and even friendliness, our country lists among the best the world and as Torontonians, we should be proud of the contribution our town makes to Canada's world standing. 

One key component that fosters our notable global reputation is development, and to recognize some of the city's foremost recently designed commercial buildings Greater Toronto REALTORS hosted a Commercial Building Awards Presentation and Reception Nov 21st at the Toronto Real estate Board. 

In the initial half of this year REALTORS, developers, and designers were invited to designate various types of projects found in the Greater Toronto Area including Green, Economic, Commercial Office, Commercial Residential, Multi-Residential and / or Academic, with one new and one retrofit building being selected to get an award. 

The winning entries were Habitat for Humanity Toronto in the new building category and Birchstone Centre in the retrofit class. 

A board of judges comprised of pro engineer Mitch Gascoyne, REALTOR Phil Nanavati and professional quantity surveyor Paul Westbrook evaluated projects, which were finished between January 2009 and Nov 2011, based on various criteria , such as sensitivity to the environment, design and innovation, and success in responding to a particular developmental need locally. 

Habitat for Humanity Toronto, found at 155 Bermondsey Road, took top marks for its inventive approach to serving a variety of different functions and its environmentally viable design. The new facility includes the organization's Home Building Factory, training facility, Revive East York and administrative office all under a single roof. It is also LEED Silver Certified, meaning it meets stringent standards in building environmental supportability. 

Local historian Mike Filey served as the event's keynote speaker. They include : Yorkdale Centre, Tyler Mews, Cushman and Wakefield Toronto East, CSREFI Canada Leaseholds Incorporated and Liberty Plaza. A highly regarded author, tour guide and radio host, Mr. 

The success of this event would not have been possible without the commitment of REALTORS who volunteered their time to help in arranging it. Filey offered unique revelations into Toronto's past. Many actually also contribute to a better Toronto by volunteering their time to support various efforts in communities across the GTA. 

Designations for the second Annual Commercial Building Awards will be sought in 2013, with a reception and presentations to be held in Winter 2014. 

If you know of a building that you suspect merits recognition, I encourage you to share your thoughts with a Greater Toronto REALTOR and for the latest information on our city's home market visit TorontoRealEstateBoard.com 

Ann Hannah is President of the Toronto Real estate Board, a pro organisation that represents 35,000 REALTORS in the Greater Toronto Area.

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