A new residential tower planned for Toronto’s Summerhill neighbourhood will pair contemporary architecture with the preservation of historic retail facades.

Woodcliffe has unveiled final designs for The Summerhill, a 32-storey residential development at Yonge Street and Birch Avenue. The design team for the 62-residence project is treating the existing streetscape as a key reference for the building’s scale, proportions, and material palette.

The project continues Woodcliffe’s work in Summerhill, which includes the restoration of North Toronto Station, now occupied by the LCBO, and the Shops of Summerhill.

At street level, the design preserves and restores the historic retail facades. The podium, streetwall, and cornice lines will reinforce the established Yonge Street frontage.

Above the podium, the architecture shifts to a contemporary expression. Large-format curtain wall systems, flush glazing, expansive windows, and porcelain cladding form the primary exterior elements.

The building’s massing and proportions reflect the surrounding streetscape. The upper floors provide views across the city and neighbourhood.

Interior design by Brian Gluckstein focuses on residential layouts, natural light, privacy, and connections to outdoor spaces. The residences maximize views and daylight, with an emphasis on clear circulation and usable living areas.

Woodcliffe CEO Eve Lewis said the design process considered materials, proportions, arrival sequences, views, and other points of contact between residents and the building.

Peter Clewes led the architectsAlliance team. Clewes said the architectural approach favours a contemporary but restrained expression.