Construction Progresses at 357 King West as Cladding Installation Advances

📅 2 days ago 🏷️ Great Gulf

The 42-storey condominium tower at 357 King West in Toronto's Entertainment District is nearing completion, with significant advancements in construction and cladding installation.

Since its construction began in late 2018, the condominium tower at 357 King West, located in Toronto's bustling Entertainment District, has made remarkable progress. The project, undertaken by Great Gulf, has successfully transitioned from below-grade work to the structural phase of its construction. This transformation has been particularly evident over the past year, as the tower ascends at the prominent southwest intersection of King Street West and Blue Jays Way.
As of early February, when we last reported on the project, the tower had just begun to rise above its distinctive Y-shaped column, which supports a three-level amenity area. In the seven weeks since that update, the construction team has maintained a steady pace, achieving a floor height increase of approximately one per week. Currently, the pouring of concrete for the 19th floor is underway, showcasing the rapid progress of the build.
A view from the nearby M5V condominiums illustrates how the skyline is gradually changing, with the new tower obscuring existing sightlines. The rise of 357 King West is also captured in a time-lapse animation, effectively demonstrating the construction team's efficiency as they continue to elevate the structure.
In addition to the vertical growth of the tower, the installation of cladding on the lower floors is advancing. The eastern elevation features a mix of materials, including window wall glazing that incorporates dark-tinted glass and operable windows framed with black aluminum mullions. Dark aluminum spandrel panel walls serve to separate the windows, creating a cohesive aesthetic.
In contrast, the cladding on the west elevation is more varied in tone. Due to the site being built to the lot line, an opaque party wall is required to accommodate potential future redevelopment alongside the tower. To address this design challenge, the architects have opted for a creative solution, employing a patterned wall made of multi-toned metal panels that will provide a visually dynamic appearance as the tower rises.
The project is on track to reach a final height of just over 148 meters. With plans to welcome its first residents in the coming year, 357 King West will add 324 new condominium units to the Entertainment District. This area has experienced significant growth in density and vertical development, reflecting the ongoing transformation of Toronto's urban landscape.

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