Trail Blazer
The granddaddy of design-savvy developers, Howard Cohen builds downtown lofts and condos that continually raise the bar
Market Wharf, at Jarvis and The Esplanade
The Developer: Context Development founder Howard Cohen started out as a planner at city hall; he headed the Harbourfront development in the ‘70s. That much-maligned project was a turning point for Cohen, inspiring him to prove that making money and nurturing a neighbourhood don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Track Record: A master of architecturally sophisticated towers and infills, Cohen and his long-time collaborator Peter Clewes of Architects Alliance have an expansive portfolio, including the lean 45-storey Spire at Adelaide and Church, and The Loretto, a conversion of a Catholic boarding school that preserved the building’s Victorian allure.
Current Project: Market Wharf is a mixed-use development on a parking lot south of St. Lawrence Market. The Clewes-designed units will include street-level retail and help link the city with the waterfront.
 
More condo features
• Eastern Star: Streetcar developments has evolved from conversions to modern condos
• Core Strength: Diamante Development’s two elegant downtown skyscrapers
• All in the Family: A clan of architects has brought sleek towers to North York’s drab skyline
• Block Party: Peter Freed is elevating the downtown skyline with well-designed buildings
• Small Miracles: Three cleverly designed space-savers make room for guests







