Condo developers have many hurdles to build towers
Buyers also have to be realistic. Every single purchaser, for example, wants a parking space beside the elevator, but of course, this is impossible. The fact is, once you move in, whether you walk 10 feet or 50 feet to your parking spot, it’s still convenient.
After more than 20 years in the business, I’m always interested in people’s comments on condominiums. Depending on individual taste, potential purchasers sometimes look at a building and ask, “What were they thinking?” — referring to the builder/developer. It’s easy to come up with quick speculations on what would have made a “better” exterior, floorplans, amenity area layout, lobby, etc. But remember, the builder/developer is only one of the many stakeholders who make the design and architecture decisions that determine the final product.
Think of it this way; a condominium is a community that houses hundreds of people. Many design and construction elements have to be considered, from how the building will structurally stand up to the proper mix of suite sizes and layouts, the number and placement of elevators, suitable amenities, garbage pick-up, waste disposal facilities, and a lobby setup that allows the concierge a vantage point for observing comings and goings for maximum security. The builder/developer has to consider:
-
corridor and lobby finishes;
-
how people will move in and out of suites;
-
how elevators can be loaded from a moving truck;
-
how many parking spaces and lockers should be built.
And more.
Keep in mind that the city has to approve the urban design of the buildings. There are zoning requirements, setbacks, angular planes, shadow and traffic impacts and height restrictions, among other hurdles. Builders/developers also have to take into account advice from consultants such as engineers. A large expanse of window glass may be interrupted by a concrete wall which helps to hold up the building.
Even something as detailed as suite numbers has to be done according to outside input, because if there is a fire and the corridor is filled with smoke, firefighters have to count doors, so numbers cannot be skipped. Considering the level of complexity involved, purchasers are wise to buy from a company with a condominium track record.
Buyers also have to be realistic. Every single purchaser, for example, wants a parking space beside the elevator, but of course, this is impossible.
The fact is, once you move in, whether you walk 10 feet or 50 feet to your parking spot, it’s still convenient.
The next time you see a condominium and are tempted to ask, “What were they thinking,” remember that “they” is a lot more people than the builder/developer.
And be thankful that we have a wealth of condo choices that make Toronto the envy of cities across North America.
Linda Mitchell is Vice-President of Marketing, High-Rise for Monarch Corporation. In 2005, Linda was presented with the coveted OHBA SAMMY (Sales and Marketing Member of the Year) award. In 2003, she received the Riley Brethour Award acknowledging outstanding and consistent professional achievement in residential sales and marketing.
