Project of the Week – 488 University Avenue

This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the outstanding Residences of 488 University Avenue, a show flat development located in the bustling cosmopolitan city of Toronto, Canada.

Every great city has its iconic avenue, rich in history and heritage; New York has Park Avenue, Paris has the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and Toronto has University Avenue – the ultimate landscape of society, culture and commerce for the cosmopolitan city. At The Residences of 488 University Avenue, the art of living has been raised to new heights. The Presentation Centre designed by II BY IV DESIGN features inspired kitchen, bath and lifestyle vignettes, as well as, a sales area and scaled model of the final building which embody the project’s lofty brand promise…’where extraordinary living becomes everyday life’. Key purchaser touch points include the stylised wall panelling (a motif found in the final building), which combine geometric shapes finished in lacquer, upholstery, chromed mirror and marble. Cove lighting, under-lit counters, down lights suspended between floating ceiling planes and contemporary decorative lighting in the vignettes work in unison to create a high-end and sophisticated atmosphere.

SBID had the opportunity to speak with Dan Menchions, Partner, of II BY IV DESIGN.

Company: II BY IV DESIGN

Project: The Residences of 488 University Avenue

Project Location: Toronto, Canada

What was the client’s brief?

The Presentation Centre was created to promote the sales of the luxury condominium development, The Residences of 488 University Avenue. The client provided us with a simple brief – create a Presentation Centre (including Show Flat) that lived up to the iconic nature of the development and its brand promise, “where extraordinary living becomes everyday life.”

We were essentially given the creative freedom to incorporate elements that would typically only be found in a custom home, or considered ‘upgrades’ in other projects. Our goal was to create an inspired, contemporary space that united modern convenience with creative living.

What inspired the design of the project?

Every great city has its iconic avenue, and Toronto has University Avenue. Inspiration for The Residences of 488 University Presentation Centre came from the developments ‘Discovery District’ locale, as well as Toronto’s urban fabric; the coming together of great minds, the creation of place and the exchange of innovative ideas.

The overall effect is chic, luxurious and thoroughly modern. Created to reflect the final building design, the Presentation Centre introduces prospective buyers to an overall atmosphere of high-end finishing, inspired design and the unlimited amenities which they can expect.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

This was an exceptional project in that the client did not impose any creative restrictions or budget. Fortunately, our mandate was simply to create a Presentation Centre that would reflect the level of quality and care found in this iconic development.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Touring this one-of-a-kind Presentation Centre provides one with an amazing authentic living experience. No expense has been spared, and the level of luxury buyers will be moving into is clearly demonstrated. Inside the stunning entrance, we set the stage with rich detailed paneling, glowing glass walls and sumptuous, eclectic furnishings that seem to magically transport potential buyers. Two fully functioning kitchens in contrasting colour palettes display the luxurious finishes and standard appliance packages.

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

We entered the SBID International Design Awards because it is internationally renowned, and to be recognised by this prestigious awards program is truly a great honour.

Questions answered by Dan Menchions, Partner, of II BY IV DESIGN

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If you missed last week’s Project of the Week with Hill House Interior’s ‘Surrey Pool House’ Click Here

Entries to the SBID Awards 2017 are now closed. To find out more about booking a table Click Here

We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire

II BY IV DESIGN | SBID International Design Awards 2017