Design firms Hariri Pontarini Architects, ERA Architects, and PUBLIC WORK plan to realize a century-old vision for College Park, a Toronto landmark, and introduce a new mixed-use development.

GWL Realty Advisors (GWLRA) has unveiled plans for the once-in-a-generation revitalization of College Park.

The project will not only break from the architectural practice known as “facadism” by retaining the full building but also complete Ross & Macdonald’s original design for the Yonge Street podium.

The proposal includes restoring the spectacular grandeur of the interior arcade, which would reconnect passersby to a Parisian-style vitrine shopping experience.

The proposal would also protect and expand The Carlu—the historic Art Deco event venue on the building’s seventh floor—with outdoor terraces and more indoor conference space.

The proposal further includes three mixed-use residential towers designed by HPA. The entire design embraces the podium’s Art Deco heritage architecture.

The addition of a new tree canopy, native plantings, a rolled landform, more topographic variation, and design elements inspired by The Carlu, will better connect the plaza to Yonge and College Streets.

The redevelopment of College Park will transform the intersection of Yonge and College into an essential retail and cultural hub as the building marks its centennial in 2030.