50 AVOCA turns Fifty - Avoca Apartments
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50 AVOCA turns Fifty
Land Acknowledgement Today, Toronto is home to many Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island and is situated on Indigenous land and Dish with One Spoon Territory. In the spirit and intent of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we acknowledge the traditional Indigenous territories on which the Avoca Apartments stand: the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations.
Avoca turns Fifty:
Celebrating Change and Continuity
Prepared by the Avoca Communications Committee:
Dianna Ericson (Chair), Patricia Evans, Maria Laura Mosco, and Diana Rowney
Foreword
community and of interest to urban Thanks to Kathleen and Sandra, then
In an effort to mark this occasion in a historians. Co-Presidents of the Board, for
significant way the Board thought it proposing a booklet as part of
might be of great interest to We are fortunate to have had the celebrating Avoca at 50. But I suspect
shareholders to know more about our expertise of an editorial team whose that the seed they planted has far
geographical and architectural history. collective background lends itself to the outgrown anything that they imagined.
We did not wish to try to replicate the research, writing and editing of this
unique anecdotal and entertaining resource document. Our heartfelt thanks This booklet provides an intriguing
booklet from the 40th anniversary. and appreciation to the following and informative account of the past and
residents for their dedication to the present of where we live: our
Avoca remains the warm spirited creation of this fascinating document: neighbourhood, the development and
community today as that reflected in the Dianna Ericson, Patricia Evans, Maria design of our buildings, their art and
first booklet. The number of residents Laura Mosco, and Diana Rowney. gardens, and the community that is
who work together to create and Avoca. Congratulations, authors, and
maintain this beautiful cohesive Kathleen McClure and Sandra Smit thank you for enhancing our
community is too extensive to recognize Co-Presidents, Avoca Board of understanding and appreciation of
individually. It is truly a collective Directors, 2017-2019 where we are proud to call home.
achievement of which we are very
proud. John Evans
President, Avoca Board of Directors,
We are pleased to present to you a 2019-2020
carefully researched reference for
Avoca shareholders who wish to know
more about a wide range of background
information as a record for the
Introduction
perhaps most importantly, through moved further north and deer made their
It is perhaps unusual for the 50th building the sense of community. appearance in this area. The
anniversary of a high-rise residential Scarborough Bluffs eroded creating the
building in Toronto to be celebrated. Toronto Islands and Toronto Bay. One
However, Avoca Apartments Limited thousand years ago, Haudenosaunee
seems to be an exception. Residents Location: Then and Now (previously known as Iroquois) 3
who have lived here have always had a communities were developing along the
strong sense of place and pride in Early Days Lower Great Lakes. When they moved
ownership from its beginnings in 1969. north, the Anishinaabe including the
There are of course a number of factors The Avoca buildings are perched high Mississaugas, made this area of
that contribute to those feelings. First, on top of the “Davenport Ridge,” which Southern Ontario their home. It was not
the apartments enjoy an exceptional was once the beach of glacial Lake until the 17 th century that the French
location that offers both natural and Iroquois. Some thirteen thousand years made an appearance, followed by the
urban amenities. Then there was the ago that lake started melting.1 Its water British in the 18th century.4
forward-looking vision and careful drained through paths, gullies and
design of the original developer and waterways out to the St Lawrence Yonge Street
architects that created buildings that leaving behind the Toronto ravines,
adapted efficiently and effectively to “one of the world’s largest ‘urban John Graves Simcoe arrived in 1791
the environment. Finally, there has been ecosystems’ ”2 and a much smaller lake, as Lieutenant Governor of Upper
the dedication of the residents Lake Ontario. Canada. He chose defensible Toronto
themselves over 50 years to work Bay as the site of the capital and called
About 10,000 years ago, Indigenous it the Town of York. This land was
collectively to maintain and enhance the peoples moved north in search of big
elegance of the property through careful initially acquired in 1787 as part of an
game. As the climate continued to agreement (revised with the Toronto
landscaping, furnishings and art, and warm, the game became extinct or Purchase in 1805, Treaty 13) between
1
Loyalist and Superintendent-General of bottom of the hill, left by the draining due to the abundance of deer that
Indian Affairs, Sir John Johnson, and glacier, made passage very difficult. A roamed the area at this time. 10 The
Wabukanyne, Neace, and Pakquan, temporary wooden structure was built presence of deer, however, was by
Principal Chiefs and War Chiefs of the to enable people, carriages, coaches, design. Indigenous people, the
Mississauga Nation. 5 In order to gain and wagons to get up and down the Mississaugas of the Anishinaabe,
access to the Upper Great Lakes, steep hill of Davenport Ridge. 8 This originally attracted the deer to the area
Simcoe’s regiment, the Queen’s Own obstacle slowed not only Simcoe’s by opening it up as a meadow, thus
Rangers, constructed a military road efforts to connect the Lower and Upper enticing the deer out of the forest to
connecting Lake Simcoe to Lake Great Lakes, but also the growing Town feed. The animals were then readily
Ontario and the Town of York.6 Simcoe of York from expanding up the hill. available to be hunted. The area was
named this road Yonge Street, after his referred to as “Mishkodae” or “prairie”
friend, Sir George Yonge, British Deer Park Community by the local Mississaugas.11 The “Deer
Secretary of War and an expert on Park” community never reached the
ancient Roman roads. 7 Unlike the At the top of Gallow’s Hill, at the status of a village or a town, and was
existing well-worn Indigenous Trail, Third Concession (now St. Clair), a finally annexed to the City in 1908.12
The Toronto Carrying Place, the new separate community was forming.
road did not consider useful During the survey of Yonge Street, two Our Location Today
topographical features; it was to be a hundred acre lots were laid out either
straight cut south. Many difficulties side, and from 1798, made available to The area has come a long way since its
were encountered all along the way. immigrants as Crown Lots. 9 In 1837, earlier days as a bustling crossroads of
Nearby our Avoca Apartments, a Mrs. Agnes Heath, a widow, purchased busy hotels and large estates with their
significant obstacle was “Gallow’s 40 acres of one of these lots. One street lone church and school. Building the St.
Hill” (now Summerhill) named for a in our community continues to bear her Clair bridge (and its replacement, the
particularly ominous-looking tree. Here family name, and indeed the whole Viaduct) enabled residents in Moore
a large deposit of quicksand at the community is now known by the name Park to frequent the library, the clubs,
she gave her own home, “Deer Park,” and the increasing number of specialty
2
shops, movie theatres, and restaurants The Views underground. 16 The section of ravine
assembled across the ravine. In 1954, which extends from the Cemetery to
the opening of the Yonge Street subway One of the great advantages of our just south of David Balfour Park was
brought another major change with the location on Davenport Ridge is that it officially named “The Vale of Avoca”
addition of corporate offices and affords us panoramic views of the city in 1973. 17 Many Avoca residents and
headquarters. 13 These, in turn, brought from all sides of the building. local neighbours go exploring along the
an influx of high-rises, the Avoca pathways and trails of the Ravine and
Apartments among them. Sadly, many East View Vale hoping to find old growth trees
of the high-end specialty shops such as white pine and red oak and new
eventually succumbed to chain stores growth, horse chestnut. The tree canopy
and coffee shops, and the theatres have may look beautiful from our balconies
all disappeared. high above, but, far below, as the
walkers well know, the Ravine has
Today, the intersection of Yonge and deteriorated into a sorry state from years
St Clair, our midtown neighbourhood in of neglect. The creek bed is crumbling.
Canada’s largest and most multicultural Invasive species such as Norway maple,
city, 14 appears to be in the process of Japanese knotweed, and dog-strangling
rediscovery and revitalization. Its four vine have proliferated to such an extent
corners have just been renovated. Public that the creek banks are eroding, and
Yellow Creek and the Vale of Avoca
art is making an appearance with the animal habitats are being lost.18
lie to the east of the site across from the
imposing mural of British artist and
entry to the Apartments. Deep in the
illustrator, Phlegm, and more towers are A Ravine Study was launched,
ravine, Yellow Creek rises to the
in various stages of approval. supported by private donations and the
surface south of Mount Pleasant
Developers promise the return of the University of Toronto’s Faculty of
Cemetery continuing on past David
energy and polish of the past.15 Forestry. City Departments have begun
Balfour Park where it dips back
working with representatives from five
3
neighbouring residents’ groups, To the south, the fifty-two acres of instrumental in establishing the
including Deer Park, to implement a David Balfour Park and its Rosehill Rosehill Community Garden. 23 The
proposed master plan. 19 This will take Reservoir provide a foreground of Reservoir is currently undergoing
time. Meanwhile, Forestry students greenery to downtown Toronto’s ever- further extensive renovation and
from the University of Toronto have changing, dramatic skyline. When rehabilitation. The common-like setting
been mapping plants, old growth and Avoca was first built, the Reservoir and with its play area, gardens, and canopy
invasive trees. A 2018 pilot project for its park were already important features of trees is missed. Fortunately it will
children in three local schools, “Seeds of the landscape to the south. In 1873, eventually be returned to green space
to Seedlings” will soon extend to eight the City took over the water supply and with improved parkland. Both the
schools. The children collect seeds from decided a reservoir atop the Davenport volunteer neighbourhood group, the
the mapped old growth trees, plant them Ridge would increase water pressure Rosehill Vision Committee, and the
in seed boxes and nurture them into and purity.21 Property owners agreed to community at large are working with
saplings. The young trees will sell provided their land was kept in the City’s Project Team to ensure that
eventually be returned home to the perpetuity as a park. The Reservoir the Reservoir and park remain
ravine!20 Avoca residents will one day opened in 1874. During World War II, “accessible to everyone…welcoming,
thank them for maintaining the canopy it was fenced for fear of poisoning! By green, green, and more green -
of green in the view to the east! the 1960s, pollution from birds, ducks, functional, maintainable, and
geese, dogs, and neighbouring beautiful.”24
South View construction caused it to be covered. At
the same time, it was enlarged and West View
deepened. Water features, and a
playground were added for the When the property for the Avoca
enjoyment of neighbours and visitors.22 Apartments was assembled, the streets
By the 1990s, the playground had fallen were lined with large, older, single
into disrepair, but in 2003 a generous dwellings, duplexes, and rooming
donation from an Avoca resident was houses.
4
to two storeys allowing the first of the Rosehill followed in 1988 with the
corporate headquarters, Imperial Oil, to condo and town houses of 38 Avoca
dominate the skyline. The architects for being added in 1995. In 2008, the town
Avoca Apartments, Seligman and Dick, houses on the south side of Pleasant
were already busy working on Balfour Blvd. completed today’s picture.
Square at 50 Rosehill; it opened in 1969 Currently, one lot remains empty on
as a rental building. The Towne Pleasant Blvd. while future plans
Apartments complex at 77 St. Clair with include an apartment tower on
its stores, offices, apartments, and town Rosehill29 and a larger, higher medical
houses won for its architects, Henry building on Pleasant.30
Fleiss and James Murray, a Canada
Housing Design Council award also in North View
To the west, by 1967, Commonwealth 1969. 27 The same landscape architect,
Towers (40 and 60 Pleasant Blvd.) and Austin Floyd, chosen for that complex
Bretton Place (44 Jackes and 33 designed the grounds of our Avoca
Rosehill) had just opened their doors.25 Apartments. In 1975 another corporate
On St. Clair Avenue, the Arthur office building appeared on the skyline.
Meighen government building, The octagonal Weston Centre at 22 St
currently undergoing a facelift, was Clair East won awards for its architect,
already fifteen years old. 26 On Yonge Leslie Rebanks. 28 In 1983-84, 70
Street, secluded St. Michael’s Cemetery Rosehill was built. The Avoca Board
was left unlocked and accessible to the was actively involved in the planning
public. Today, Avoca residents on process for that development in relation To the north, beyond the concrete of
higher west-side floors can still enjoy to the height and placement of the 38 Avoca, lies the lushness of Mount
views of these lovely grounds. Most of buildings, striving to protect our Pleasant Cemetery. For the residents of
the stores on Yonge Street were limited western views! The building at 40 Avoca, the cemetery creates a landscape
5
of trees, an extensive foreground to the Filled with serious and leisure through the real estate broker, Andrew
array of high-rises beyond, none of walkers, runners and cyclists on any Csepely.36
which existed fifty years ago. The two- given day, it remains as intended a place
hundred-acre property was originally of rest, contemplation, and recreation Unlike rental accommodation, the co-
purchased by the City in 1873 to for all Toronto residents to enjoy. In operative model allowed people to
provide much needed additional burial 2000, it was designated a National continue to have ownership of their
space. German born civil engineer and Historic Site.34 residences, which Sharp felt fostered a
landscape architect, Henry Engelhardt, sense of pride in residency.37
was hired to create the pastoral, park-
like setting of the new cemetery, which Throughout the 1960s and 70s, the
opened in 1876.31 Influenced by the first Architects and Architecture family business, Max Sharp & Son, was
“landscape style” garden cemetery in mainly engaged in building apartments
the United States, Mount Auburn near The Avoca Project and residences. Sharp, however,
Boston, he filled Mount Pleasant with became increasingly interested in the
With its wonderful views, the site on hospitality industry. He completed the
miles of winding paths, gardens, rivers, Avoca Avenue was a prime location for
reflecting pools, and a collection of rare Inn on the Park in 1961 and went on to
the development of a high-rise building become the founder and chairman of the
trees from all over the world. When it by the 1960s. Francis Hilb, a builder of
opened, “city guide books made a point very successful Four Seasons Hotels
residential subdivisions and cooperative and Resorts. He gradually developed a
of recommending a visit into the apartments, 35 had gathered the lands
countryside north of the city to witness business philosophy that served him
together and approached Isadore Sharp well on all his projects, focusing on
its wonders.” 32 Today, although the to develop the Avoca Apartments.
rivers have been filled in and native quality in materials and design. In his
Sharp had been introduced to the hotel businesses, he aimed for “a
species dominate the rare trees, Mount concept of co-operative apartments, the
Pleasant still maintains “one of the standard of relaxed elegance,” 38 and
precursor of condominiums and already that is a quality already discernable in
finest tree collections in North common in New York City and Europe,
America.”33 his approach to the Avoca Apartments.
6The Design Specifications visual benefit” of both the natural residences, including Balfour Square on
surroundings and the cityscape.42 With Rosehill Avenue, as noted earlier.
The Avoca Apartments were regard to the interior, the design
conceptualized as “a cooperative required that the architects create “an Sharp, however, was a very hands-on
ownership luxury apartment environment giving maximum privacy; developer. Having studied drafting and
development”39 that would be attractive units that were individual in character; architecture at Ryerson Institute of
to “empty nesters” wishing to downsize non-typical; flexible and with an image Technology before entering his father’s
from nearby neighbourhoods, but which would project a distinctive urban business, he had strong ideas about
hoping to stay in the area. Space and character.”43 architectural design and became very
ambience were very important engaged in all the projects he took on.
considerations. The design was intended to draw upon This was certainly the case in the design
both the natural and urban elements of of Avoca Apartments. His idea was “the
There were a number of specifications the environment to appeal to glass box.”45 All obstacles to the view
that guided the development of Avoca prospective buyers. were to be eliminated as far as possible,
Apartments. Both buildings and site and the indoors were to be extended
environment had to have “a high degree The Architects outward.
of urban sophistication.” 40 The
“prominent and exposed site” The firm of Seligman and Dick was Exterior Architecture
overlooking the clearing created by the selected to provide the architectural
Rosedale Reservoir and David Balfour interpretation of the design The 19-storey buildings achieve a
Park required that the architecture specifications. They were Toronto quiet, reserved elegance through the
“present a distinctive appearance from a architects who built in the modernist strong, modernist horizontal lines
distance as well as bear the scrutiny of style and were recognized for their created by the continuous, concrete
attention to detail from nearby.”41 The modernist residences in the Bridle Path balconies encircling the buildings. The
park and ravine location also dictated area during the 1950s and early 60s,44 idea for the balconies came from a
that the residents receive the “maximum but they also built a number of high-rise recent trip to Europe where Sharp had
7been impressed by wrought-iron The use of glass panels ensured that twin tuxedoed brothers surrounded by
balconies designed by Antoni Gaudi.46 views would not be obstructed even architectural oafs in off-the-rack
These good-sized balconies allowed the while sitting indoors. The exceptional polyester.”49 Perhaps the observation is
extension of the indoor living space. As floor-to-ceiling windows further a little too unkind to our neighbours, but
square footage for the Avoca connected the indoor and outdoor it is true that even to this day the Avoca
Apartments depended on the lot size, spaces, and they became a precedent for buildings stand out as exceptional in a
the architects were limited in creating later condo styles.47 community of high-rises.
interior space; thus wide, extended
perimeter balconies, not included in this To complete the unique exterior
coverage allotment, provided a way to profile of Avoca Apartments, Seligman
extend the interior out of doors onto a designed the bronze finished steel
sheltered “room” protected from the screens that surround the mechanical
elements by the overhead canopy. penthouses on top, providing a slightly
Asian ambience. Buildings in New
York and Europe were beginning to
“create tops to buildings” and Seligman
hoped that the simple metal cladding
would attract attention to the buildings
from a distance. 48 The combination of Mechanical penthouses
the roof screens and the wrap-around
Interior Architecture
balconies give the buildings their
simple but distinctive profile that The buildings are built around a
continues to project an air of elegance central core that consists of 3 elevators.
50 years on. The modernist heritage has The two main elevators are finished in
served the buildings well. “Crisp, cool, rosewood wall paneling with stainless
Outdoor living space elegant. Linear and geometric, these are steel trim and marble floors. The
8corridor is wrapped around three sides the exterior window, and entrances quietness are maintained by thick
of this central core with the typical floor opened into large bright living/dining plaster-covered concrete walls that
including six units. The corridors have rooms flooded by light through the glass reduce noise both within each unit and
undergone several reiterations, but the curtain wall. Though the units were between units. Thus despite their
original design included upper walls spacious, many clients modified the midtown, bustling location, Avoca
and ceiling in rough textured plaster, interior to suit their own tastes and residents are relatively insulated from
carpeted floors – “which originally needs. For instance, the original owners, the onslaught of city noise – at least in
carried up the lower wall as a dado” – Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Dunkelman the absence of local renewal projects!
and “a stained white oak rail that purchased five apartments on Floor 12
contained built-in milk bottle and letter of 10 Avoca in order to provide 8 The Lobbies
slots.” 50 Lighting was provided by bedrooms and 8 bathrooms for their In keeping with the minimalist
fluorescent strips behind an overhead family of 6 children.51 Though that may modernist style, the lobbies were
valence. The hallways are scheduled for have been an exceptional re-design, designed for understated elegance.
renewal once again, keeping Avoca many Avoca residents found the Vertical strips of rosewood paneling
contemporary. simplicity of the interior space, the with soft indirect light at the top and
“unobtrusive detailing and quiet bottom and white marble floors created
Because spaciousness was of prime background” to be flexible enough to a subdued atmosphere. The furnishings
concern, the poured-in-concrete “enable rooms to be furnished with of the original lobbies reveal
columns were placed outside the living well-designed pieces of any period.”52 Scandinavian influences popular in the
area at the four corners of the building.
1960s. The designer Janis Kravis’s
Sharp credits his wife, Rosalie, an artist In addition to flexibility, the design
decoration consisted of “an elegant
and interior designer, with ideas to help contributed to a space that is both
grouping of suede and rosewood
him think further about opening up unit private and quiet. The buildings are
furniture on an oriental carpet lit by
interiors. Unlike most apartment offset to one another to avoid as much
custom glass cubes.”53 A wall hanging
designs, which placed kitchens in the as possible looking directly into the
and a single marble-clad freestanding
interior, Avoca kitchens were moved to other building. Inside, privacy and
9column were the only adornments, Chillida. The overall ambience remains The Avoca Apartments have a proud
creating an overall ambience “of easy elegant and understated. architectural heritage and succeeding
opulence.”54 waves of residents have come to
Award appreciate the minimalist style that has
A re-design of the lobbies, completed given the buildings their long-lasting
in 2007, was organized by a small The Avoca Apartments complex won appeal, along with the exceptional
committee of Avoca residents who were a National Award by the Canadian location. With each new necessary
careful to maintain the classic Housing Design Council in 1969. The update and renovation, residents have
modernist style of the original 60s Council was interested in how design been careful to preserve the essential
modernism of the building. They achieved “quality of the living qualities that make Avoca a unique
eliminated the popcorn ceiling and used environment.” 56 The housing projects place to live in the city.
a custom-made wool carpet from were judged “for good proportion,
Poland in taupes matching the brick simplicity of treatment and general When asked if there was anything that
wall to gather together a grouping of architectural character; for the efficient he would change about the design of the
Barcelona-style chairs and Brno-style use of space; for the appropriate use of buildings after 50 years, Sharp
chairs, copies of original designs by materials; for the general shape of the responded “No.” He believes that it is
Mies van der Rohe.55 The large floor- buildings and for siting the simplicity of their design that has
to-ceiling windows now bring the arrangements.” For the Avoca project,
57
given Avoca Apartments their lasting
outdoors into the lobby where the the jury liked “the strong indoor- appeal and that the continued interest of
signature birch trees can be enjoyed all outdoor relationship.” 58 The architects its residents in their history attest to
year round and daffodils in spring. had capitalized on the remarkable views their success.
Indoor flowers adorn the glass coffee afforded by the location and created a
table at all times. On the wall behind the well-designed and landscaped setting Art at Avoca
seating arrangement in both buildings, for the two elegant buildings.
there are bold abstract etchings in black In keeping with the modernity of
and white on rag paper by Eduardo Avoca architecture, the common spaces
10of Avoca are enriched by the as metal, glass, wood, synthetic, saran, Lobby Art
contemporary art of significant artists and perspex. His work is held by the
such as Canadian John Stohn, Spanish Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the TD The lobbies in both buildings display,
Edoardo Chillida, and American Eric Bank, the Toronto Stock Exchange, and as noted, two works by Eduardo
Fischl. several private collections. Chillida, on loan to Avoca by resident
Robert Noakes: Banatu, 1970, in 10
Outdoor Art Avoca, and “Aundi III” 1971, in 20
Avoca. Etchings on woven paper, these
Tai Chi, in front of 10 Avoca, was works speak to the modernity
created and donated by resident John exemplified by the architecture of our
Stohn. It is a kinetic mobile sculpture buildings, with a balanced mixture of
where three steel and wood rectangles lines and curves, and the clarity of the
in an aluminum shell, engage in sinuous interplay of the black and white
movements that follow the air currents tonality.
that circulate between the two
buildings. The title for the sculpture was Born in San Sebastián, in the Basque
the result of an Avoca competition. Country in 1924, Chillida was a
multifaceted artist, with an interest in
Stohn is represented by the Roberts connecting space and materiality in
Gallery in Toronto where he has had geometrical forms. Many of his works
three sold-out exhibitions. His work is are held in the collections of the Art
inspired by the kinetic work of Institute of Chicago, the Guggenheim
Alexander Calder where mechanical Museum Bilbao, the Tate Gallery in
ingenuity and aesthetic tension are at London, and The Museum of Modern
the core. 59 Stohn utilizes diverse Art in New York, among others. A
materials to create his sculptures, such John Stohn’s ‘Tai Chi’ personal museum, the Chillida Leku,
11opened in his last residence in Hernani, City to the Museum of Contemporary Avoca’s grounds and gardens.62 He had
San Sebastián, where his sculptures are Art in Los Angeles, and the Centre worked previously on projects with
in perfect harmony with the gardens or Pompidou in Paris. Fischl has also Sharp, including the courtyard for the
the interior spaces of his last collaborated with writers E.L. Inn on the Park, which cemented
residence.60 Doctorow, Allen Ginsberg, Jamaica Floyd’s reputation and “demonstrated
Kincaid, and Frederic Tuten.61 on a broad spectrum his fluency in the
Common Room modern idiom and his sympathy for site
Basement Corridors and structure.” 63 Avoca’s landscaping
Another common space that is indeed in graceful harmony with its
welcomes the Avoca community and The hallways that lead to our internal buildings and ravine setting. The
their guests with contemporary art is the facilities (lockers, mechanicals, library characteristic aspects of Floyd’s work
renovated Common Room. The Room and laundry rooms, and the continue to provide a contemporary and
showcases two etchings by American passageways to the garage) have been pleasing landscape. The curvilinear
artist Eric Fischl: Playing Beachballs, enlivened by photographs of Avoca's shapes, rounded edges, and zig-zags,
1982, and Kids Digging, 1982. These gardens and pool by Toronto-based evident in both the hard and soft scapes,
works are also on loan from resident architectural photographer Joy von serve to soften and contrast with the
Robert Noakes. Fischl has a special Tiedemann. The photos capture the life strong geometric lines of the
connection to Canada. In 1974, he of Avoca's natural beauty across the buildings. 64 Even within the
moved to Halifax, where he taught four seasons of the year. landscaping itself there are strong
painting at the Nova Scotia College of contrasts. For example, the birches,
Art and Design. His first solo show, pines, and maples by the pool are
curated by Bruce W. Ferguson, opened Avoca Gardens and Grounds
planted in precise but subtle geometric
at the Dalhousie Art Gallery in Nova clumps, while the simple and repetitive
Austin Floyd
Scotia in 1975. His work can be found pattern of the ground cover provides the
at major museums worldwide: from the
J. Austin Floyd, “one of Canada’s first carpet layer. While ensuring an
Museum of Modern Art in New York
modern landscape architects” designed aesthetically pleasing design, Floyd was
12emphatic that every element should also paths to create a peaceful and inviting white theme and many beautiful birch
enhance the user’s experience. In environment. Turnbull recalled that trees that seem to flow naturally from
summer, for example, trees provide Floyd “…was always pushing the nearby forest in the ravine across the
shade and cast ‘shadow patterns’ boundaries, yet his work was accessible street.”69
enhancing the view from large . . . leaving those who experienced one
windows. Once the leaves fall, the sun of his gardens with a magical
streams in, bringing warmth and impression.” 67
opening the views during our long
winter months. The paths are designed Isadore Sharp’s influence extended
to invite us into the garden and are wide beyond the buildings to include the
enough to allow us to walk in pairs. 65 landscape-to-be. He was sensitive to the
relationship between buildings and their
Floyd achieved Avoca’s “natural” grounds, and the ways that maturing
landscape through a detailed plan. Neil landscapes help to mask the signs of
Turnbull, the young site supervisor, at deterioration as buildings age.
first thought the plan suggested a fairly
informal plant arrangement, but when The white birches at the entrance to
asked if the plan needed to be followed Avoca were his idea, intended to bring
exactly, Floyd responded with an to the grounds “a feel of Algonquin,” to
emphatic “yes.” Precise measurements create an attractive landscape in each of
were taken to make sure that each tree, Canada’s seasons, and serve as Avoca’s
shrub, and plant was placed exactly in “calling card.” 68 As a recent article in
the intended location. 66 Generous our newsletter notes: “Cab drivers,
plantings of white cedars, flowering visitors and passers-by all comment on
crabapples, magnolia, and weeping the beauty and simplicity of Avoca’s
forsythia were coupled with flagstone front garden with its serene green and Winter birches
13Our Contemporary Landscape An early addition to the landscape was maples, flowering dogwood, and
the 1989 installation of a sundial and a disease-resistant Katsura trees, chosen
While retaining the essentials of perennial garden, including herbs, over for their lovely and changing colours. A
Floyd’s original design, the Avoca the garage ramp. winding path now bisects the garden,
landscape has evolved to take replacing the original design of the
advantage of the wider diversity of Designed by one of Avoca’s original flagstones. Native and perennial species
plants and trees now available, to adapt residents, this site has presented are much in evidence in this garden.
to the changing local ecology, and to continuing garden challenges. 70 In
manage the challenges inherent to 2017, it was redesigned and the roses
Avoca’s site. For example, while were replaced with plants better able to
perennials and native species were not withstand strong winds, intense western
much in evidence in the early days, they sunlight, and shallow soil depth.71
are now widely available and are now
important features of Avoca’s gardens. To take account of a newly installed
pedestrian ramp at the entrance, the
‘Woodland’ or ‘Serpentine’ garden
positioned between the two buildings
received a major re-design in 2014. Neil
Turnbull prepared the design and
supervised the installation, as he has for
other major landscaping changes at Woodland garden
Avoca. The spirit of the original garden The evolution in Avoca’s landscape is
has been maintained, and trees remain a the outcome of the imagination and skill
signature feature of the ‘upper story’ but of many professionals, such as Neil
the crabapples have been replaced with Turnbull, as well as members of our
Sundial garden a variety of trees, including Japanese House and Landscape Committee.
14From the start, residents have played a however, tangible signs of a very Why a Co-op and Not a Condo?
very important role in the creation and different era: doormen wore livery, and
care of our gardens. Two original car-washing and valet parking services Avoca’s legal structure has also
residents, for example, decided the area were available. On the other hand, endured, despite the proliferation of
south of the pool needed more colour so prices were on a completely different condominiums in the city. While
they planned, purchased and planted an scale. Two- bedroom units sold for difficult now to imagine, apartments
abundance of annuals.72 It was also an $45,000 and parking cost $15.00 per existed only as rental accommodation
initiative of the Committee members to month; monthly maintenance fees for a before Isadore Sharp brought co-
plant hundreds of daffodils in the front three-bedroom unit were $99.00.74 But operatives to Toronto in 1957. 75 Like
of our buildings, providing bright the elegant design, wrap-around his other co-ops, Avoca was
splashes of yellow in the spring and balconies, generous outdoor space, and incorporated under the provisions of the
enhancing the views from the lobbies. closeness to amenities, such as the business corporations’ legislation.
While dedicated residents are often seen subway and parks, are the qualities that Ontario’s first condominium legislation
weeding and caring for our gardens, our continue to make Avoca such an was proclaimed in 1967 – well after
participation in design is now always in attractive place to live. planning for Avoca was underway.76
consultation with arborists. Thanks to
the contributions of many professionals Avoca Apartments Ltd. is a non-profit
and residents, Avoca’s grounds now equity corporation that holds the legal
nurture more than 150 trees!73 title to our buildings and land in trust.
Purchasers of a suite become
Our Avoca Community shareholders of the corporation, with a
contractual right to occupy, but not
Current residents of Avoca no longer own, a specific unit. Although the co-op
sport the top hats and fur wraps depicted structure was the only financing option
in the 1969 marketing brochure and available to Sharp at the time, it has
perhaps never did. There were, 50 years ago… some significant advantages. For
15instance, co-op boards exercise greater Since purchasers of a co-op unit must understand that, should they wish, their
control and bear more responsibility for come up with a larger percentage of the future involvement in the Avoca
governance. 77 In the mid-nineties, the purchase price than typifies other real community would be very welcome.
Board reviewed the costs and benefits estate transactions, buyers tend to be
of co-ops versus condos and decided older, financing their move through the Fostering Community
that the co-op structure had more sale of houses, often close by – a trend
advantages.78 that has continued from Avoca’s While certainly not every one has the
earliest days. Finally, because the time or interest, many play an active
Co-op and community Avoca Board has considerable authority part in the life of Avoca, through
over issues of management, decisions working on the Board, coordinating
Several unique features of co-ops help on improvements, and increases to some of our amenities and resources,
to foster a strong community. 79 First, maintenance fees, residents are and organizing and participating in a
because individuals do not own their encouraged, and are more inclined, to variety of activities. In any given year,
apartments, the Avoca Board is able to participate. For example, co-op boards approximately 50 residents serve on the
prohibit rentals. The absence of a approve the financing arrangements Board and its committees, several of
‘floating’ renter/investor population before a transfer of shares can take which are essential to maintaining our
means that all residents have a common place. In addition to checking on buildings and grounds. In the past,
interest in Avoca’s upkeep, appearance finances, two Board members (or interest in governance was less, perhaps
and improvement. We are also more delegates) use the interview to ensure because it was thought to be less
likely to get to know our neighbours, that prospective purchasers understand important:“The early years at Avoca
through participating in Avoca Avoca’s most important policies, were blessed with simplicity---no major
activities or simply as familiar faces we provide information about the work of repairs to think of for years, not even
regularly encounter in the laundry the Board and its committees, and half the city regulations we have
rooms, elevators, by the pool, and on the outline some of the available activities. nowadays.” 80
street. Second, most residents share a As a result, newcomers know at least
broadly similar demographic profile. two residents before moving in and With the passage of time, the upkeep
16of Avoca’s buildings and grounds has and the interiors of the Avoca buildings; residents to work on their carpentry,
ceased to be a simple matter. The this involves long-term planning and craft, and art projects—jewel boxes,
responsibility of the Reserve Fund monitoring ongoing projects. cheese boards, and even a catapult are a
Committee is to take account of the few examples.81 It began in 1972 with
regular updates of the Reserve Fund Committee members advise the eight members and now boasts 50 as
Study prepared by Avoca’s engineering Board on landscape improvements, well an expanded space. 82 Other
consultants and, along with the Property replacement of plants, shrubs and trees, residents produce the newsletter that
Manager, recommend to the Board a and changes to décor and furnishings to has taken different forms and had
schedule of projects with the required our common areas. They are also different purposes over the years.
budget and the appropriate level of responsible for arranging and caring for Starting up in 2011, after a four-year
monthly charges to residents in the the white orchids that grace our lobbies. hiatus, its current version keeps us up-
following year. This committee also to-date on news at Avoca and in our
oversees the bidding process and In addition to the work of the Board neighbourhood, and contains restaurant
monitors active projects. Over the and its committees, residents invest reviews, profiles of staff and residents,
years, the Reserve Fund has financed considerable time and effort into our and interesting notes on local history.
major renewals, such as our balconies libraries, Hobby Room, and the
and elevators. Thanks to the hard work newsletter. The libraries, located in our There is little question that Avoca’s
of this committee and the Board, Avoca laundry rooms, date from Avoca’s early most popular social event is the annual
holds a healthy Reserve Fund and has a days. Five volunteers now ensure that pool party. It all started in 1994 with the
reputation for excellent maintenance. our collections are attractively bright idea of a small group who,
organized and displayed—a real relaxing by the pool, thought how nice
The House and Landscape challenge given the constant flows in it would be to enjoy a drink
Committee is also key to sustaining and out of donated and borrowed books. together…then they ordered
Avoca as an attractive place to live. Its Our Hobby Club offers a large and well- pizza…and one thing led to another.
mandate is to preserve the “aesthetic fitted room to house the necessary They sought approval and a budget
integrity and quality” of the grounds equipment, tools, and table space for from the board, applied for permission
17to serve alcohol and, twenty-five pot- management of the property. In so hired by the Board, were considered
lucks later, it is still going strong. 83 many different ways, they are the public sufficient. In the late 1980s, a
Other resident-driven initiatives ensure face of Avoca. professional security firm replaced
that we have a range of activities them with one around-the clock guard,
available, such as the book club, film Over 50 years, significant changes quickly adding a second, now our
nights, and concerts, as well as bridge, have occurred in the responsibility for current complement.84
tai chi, and yoga classes. Over the years, and the size of Avoca management and
Avoca has been extraordinarily staff. These changes echo broader 2016: Enhancing Community
fortunate that so many community- trends and include a general rise in
spirited individuals have given personal and property security concerns The single most important change to
generously of their time, energy, and as well as the outsourcing and our buildings since they opened 50
talents to enriching our community. professionalizing of co-op and years ago took place in 2016. Under the
condominium management. In its visionary and generous leadership of
It is, of course, not only residents who earliest days, the Board assumed all the our neighbor and internationally
make the Avoca community what it is. responsibilities of a property manager, renowned architect, Jack Diamond,
Avoca’s “unsung heroes”- the members but, not surprisingly, soon realized that much of the ground floor common
of staff and management – make the nature and scope of the duties space was re-designed. Each building
numerous, varied and invaluable, but required a ‘proper’ property manager. acquired a well-equipped and light-
often invisible, contributions to our As a result of a staffing review in the filled gym, bringing Avoca up to date
quality of life. They keep our common late 1990s, Avoca shifted from hiring its with health and fitness trends. Our hard-
spaces clean and inviting, ensure our own manager to contracting with working staff gained an attractive room
safety and security, welcome our Brookfield Condominium Services to relax in during breaks. However, the
visitors, watch out for problems with (now Crossbridge) to provide property centerpiece of the renovation is the
the infrastructure, and attend to the management services. Security has also Common Room – a stunning
many, many issues, large and small, increased and been outsourced. In the transformation from a dingy and
involving the maintenance and early days, two afternoon doormen, windowless room, originally built for
18storage. Now the space is beautifully 2011 initiative by a small group of hall meetings and informal discussions
and stylishly furnished as a result of a devoted film lovers, has received a that preceded the shareholders’ vote to
very generous donation from Klaus and boost in audience numbers and approve the expenditure on this historic
Beatrix Nienkamper. But perhaps best enjoyment through the cinema-quality project. And, of course, all contributed
of all, the generous glazing that runs the sound and projection, and the excellent to paying for it through that Avoca
length of the outside wall allows the seating now available.85 More recently, rarity: a special assessment.86
sunlight to pour in. From inside to the Common Room, with its first-rate
outside, the Common Room echoes acoustics, has made possible Music at Our 50-year old buildings have
Avoca’s “quiet modernism.” And all Avoca, an annual series of chamber retained their attractiveness, but they
this was accomplished without any music concerts by young professional must also adapt to changes in our
extension to the buildings’ footprint! musicians. It also provides excellent broader environment. Fitness facilities
facilities for residents who wish to book are no longer an option, but a necessity,
The Common Room enriches our private events. for apartment buildings in our “keep fit”
community life in so many ways. We culture. Electric vehicles are on the
have called it our ‘Common Room’ (not The renovation process was itself a horizon, and Avoca is now surveying
‘party room’) to emphasize its community-builder and involved many the demand and possibilities for
community uses. Avoca now boasts residents in a variety of ways. Some incorporating charging stations.
attractive space that serves an array of contributed their expertise. Some Similarly, increasingly environmentally
purposes: holding our general meetings, served on the committees that conscious, we are making serious
providing a place to meet for coffee and developed the plans and oversaw their efforts to move toward paperless
conversation, a quiet retreat or simply implementation. Some gave most communications. In these ways, the
for a needed change of scenery. Our generously to provide added amenities, Avoca community remains vital,
book club members, bridge players, and most notably for the screen and keeping pace with the times.
those attending tai chi and yoga classes projection equipment. Some offered
now enjoy welcoming and comfortable constructive criticism and many
surroundings. Avoca Cinema Nights, a actively participated in the lively town
19Conclusion On the 50th anniversary of the Avoca Apartments, we hope that residents will gain a new insight and appreciation for the place we call home. Our setting on the highest point in Toronto, along with both its natural and urban advantages, gives us a special vantage point from which to enjoy the city. We are part of its ongoing history. Our buildings, appreciated when they were built, still contribute elegance to the skyline. Through bold art, thoughtful interior decoration, and careful landscaping, we have preserved the “relaxed elegance” intended by the original concept. As part of that early cohort of co-operative buildings in the city, we have demonstrated that community building is at the heart of co-operative living. But perhaps the most important testament to the success of the project is the fact that, after 50 years, Avoca remains a vibrant and contemporary community. 20
Endnotes
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
1
Carl Benn, “The History of Toronto: An 11,000 Year History.” Accessed June 25, 2019. www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-
culture/museums/virtual-exhibits/history-of-toronto .
2
Eric Davies et.al. The Toronto Ravines Study: 1977-2017. Faculty of Forestry, University of Toronto. 2018, 6. Accessed July 15,
2019. https://torontoravinesdotorg.files.wordpress.com/2018/09/toronto-ravines-study-1977-to-2017-short.pdf.
3
Glenn Turner, The Toronto Carrying Place (Toronto: Dundurn, 2015), 16.
4
Benn, “The History of Toronto".
5
Under the terms of the revised 1805 Purchase, the Mississaugas received ten shillings in exchange for 250,830 acres of land. In 2010,
the land claim was resolved for $145 million. See Toronto Purchase https://www.ontario.ca/page/map-ontario-treaties-and-reserves#t15
and http://mncfn.ca/torontopurchase/.
6
Laura Bonikowsky, “Yonge Street-Governor Simcoe’s Military Road.” Accessed July 15, 2019.
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/yonge-street-governor-simcoes-militaryroad-feature.
7
“Yonge Street 1796,” Toronto Historical Plaques. Accessed July 16, 2019. http://torontoplaques.com/Pages/Yonge_Street.html
8
Joan C. Kinsella, Historical Walking Tour of Deer Park (Toronto, 1996), 4-5.
9
Ibid.
10
May Bray, “One Hundred Years Young: A Condensed History of Christ Church, Deer Park, Toronto, Saluting the Church’s
Centenary, 1870-1970” (Toronto, 1970),13.
11
CBC News, “3 places where you can discover Toronto’s Indigenous history.” Accessed July 16, 2019.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/first-story-toronto-indigenous-history-1.4170290
12
Kinsella, Historical Walking Tour, 8.
13
Canada First Subway. Accessed July 16, 2019. https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/accountability-operations-customer-
service/access-city-information-or-records/city-of-toronto-archives/whats-online/web-exhibits/canadas-first-subway/
14
Toronto had the largest share of foreign-born compared to Vancouver and Montreal, 37.4% of all foreign-born in Canada. Statistics
Canada, Immigration and Ethnocultural Diversity in Canada. Accessed July 23, 2019. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/nhs-enm/2011/as-
sa/99-010-x/99-010-x2011001-eng.cfm#a1
2115 M. Gee, “Yonge and St. Clair is ‘going to be great again’ real estate firm says,” Globe and Mail, August 26, 2016. Accessed October 11, 2018. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/yonge-and-st-clair-going-to-be-great-again-real-estate-firm- says/article31579435/. 16 “Vale of Avoca Reach,” Lost Rivers. Accessed March 23 2019. http://www.lostrivers.ca/content/ValeavocaR.html . 17 “Hiking the GTA, Vale of Avoca,” Accessed July 27, 2019. https://hikingthegta.com/2015/09/07/the-vale-of-avoca/ 18 Star Editorial Board, “Save Toronto’s Dying Ravines,” Toronto Star, November 19, 2018. Accessed July 16, 2019. https://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2018/11/19/save-torontos-dying-ravines.html 19 Josh Matlow and Kristyn Wong-Tam. Letter to City of Toronto Council, August 25, 2016. Accessed June 25, 2019. www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2016/pe/bgrd/backgroundfile-95844.pdf. 20 Joan York, Correspondence. June 20, 2019. 21 “Rose Hill Reservoir,” Toronto’s Historical Plaques. Accessed January 27, 2019. www.torontohistory.org/Pages/Rose_Hill_Reservoir.html. 22 Kinsella, Historical Walking Tour, 27. 23 Estelle Craig donated $50,000. G. Ghuman, “Summerhill garden blooms anew,” Toronto Star, 2008. Accessed July 17, 2019. https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2008/07/14/summerhill_garden_blooms_anew.html 24 Vision Plan Committee. A Vision for Rosehill Reservoir Park, November 2016. Accessed July 16, 2019. http://www.summerhilltoronto.ca/assets/uploads/ReservoirVisionPlan2016.pdf. 25 Unless otherwise indicated, the Toronto Architectural Conservancy search engine was used to document information on the dates of the buildings mentioned in this section: https://www.acotoronto.ca/tobuilt_new_detailed.php. 26 Arthur Meighen Rehabilitation Project. Accessed July 26, 2019. https://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/biens- property/construction/arthurmeighen-eng.html 27 B. Lambert, ““Fashion Show” of Housing: High-ride [sic] design may set a precedent,” Ottawa Citizen, January 3, 1970, 26. 28 Kinsella. Historical Walking Tour, 35 29 J. Landau, “29-Storey ‘Rosehill Tower’ Could Intensify Midtown Site.” Accessed January 29, 2019. https://urbantoronto.ca/news/2016/12/29-storey-rosehill-tower-could-intensify-midtown-site 30 J. Taranu, “Deer Park Ratepayers Group 2017 Spring Newsletter”, February 27, 2017. Accessed June 22, 2019. https://deerparkresidents.ca/2017/02 22
31
Kinsella, Historical Walking Tour, 54-55.
32
Mike Filey, Mount Pleasant Cemetery (Toronto: Firefly, 1990), 24.
33
Ibid, 44.
34
“Mount Pleasant Cemetery National Historic Site of Canada.” Parks Canada. Accessed 25 June 2019.
https://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/dfhd/page_nhs_eng.aspx?id=1932.
35
Isadore Sharp with Alan Phillips, Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy (Toronto: Viking Canada, 2009), 85.
36
Ibid, 34.
37
Isadore Sharp, Interview, June 5, 2019.
38
Sharp, The Story, 37.
39
J.A. Murray, ed. “Architects: Seligman and Dick,” The Canadian Architect. March 1971, 56.
40
Ibid.
41
Ibid.
42
Ibid.
43
R. W. Harvey, ed. Awards for Residential Design: Canadian Housing Design Council, 1969, 78-79.
44
Toronto Modern, “Longer, Lower, and Wider on the Bridle Path.” Published April 6, 2010 in Toronto Modern Architecture).
Accessed January 23, 2019. https://robertmoffatt115.wordpress.com/2010/04/08/longer-lower-and-wider-on-the-bridle-path-part-2/ .
45
Sharp, Interview.
46
Ibid.
47
Jack Diamond, Interview. November 25, 2018.
48
Sharp, Interview.
49
D. LeBlanc [The Architourist ] “A look at what high-rise living used to be,” The Globe and Mail, March 6, 2009, G8.
50
Murray, Canadian Architect. 56-57.
51
Z. Cherry, “Floor-by-floor tour of Avoca co-op apartments,” Globe and Mail, February 19, 1970, W2.
52
Lambert, “Fashion Show” of Housing:”
53
H. Cowan, “Higher hopes for the high rise,” Toronto Daily Star, September 6. 1969.
54
Ibid.
55
Robert Noakes, Interview. May 14, 2019.
2356 C. Fowke, ed. “National Housing Design Council Awards: Who won – where and why.” Canadian Building, January 1970, 44. 57 Harvey, Awards, 4. 58 Ibid, 78-79. 59 John Stohn, Interview. April 3, 2019. 60 Artnet: Eduardo Chillida. Accessed June 18, 2019. http://www.artnet.com/artists/eduardo-chillida/ 61 Artnet: Eric Fischl. Accessed June 18, 2019. http://www.artnet.com/artists/eric-fischl/ 62 Mark Affum, Modernism in the Canadian Landscape: James Austin Floyd’s Gardens and the Emergence of Modern Landscape Architecture in Canada, 1950-1970. (Master’s thesis, University of Guelph, 2014) 3. Accessed June 3, 2019. https://atrium.lib.uoguelph.ca/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10214/8101/Affum_Mark_201404_MLA.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y 63 Ibid, 24. 64 Sue Macaulay, Interview. May 24, 2019. 65 Affum, Modernism, 133. 66 Celebrating Avoca at 40: Milestones and Memories (Privately published, 2008) and interview with Neil Turnbull. He was early in his career with the Avoca project, but he went on to design a number of significant institutional gardens including the Arthur Meighen Garden at the Stratford Festival. Accessed June 9, 2019. https://hedgerow.ca. 67 Celebrating Avoca. 68 Sharp, Interview. Some of these observations are reiterated in his book: Sharp, The Story. 36. For ‘calling card,’ see Cynthia Smith, “Avoca’s Iconic Birches,” 10/20 News, Fall 2018, 1. 69 Ibid. 70 For information on the sundial and garden, see Celebrating Avoca. 71 Bill Toyne, “Redoing the Rose Garden,” 10/20 Newsletter, Fall 2017, p. 3 72 Celebrating Avoca. 73 Bill Toyne, Correspondence. July 11, 2019. 74 See Celebrating Avoca for parking and maintenance fees. For the original price, see Cherry, “Floor-by-floor tour.” $45,000, adjusted for inflation, is the equivalent of $295,714 in 2019; calculated from and accessed May 28, 2019. http://www.in2013dollars.com/ca/inflation/1970?amount=45000. 24
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