As part of its efforts to bolster missing middle housing options across the Greater Toronto Area, Minto Communities GTA has introduced the first phase of its Westshore development in South Etobicoke—geared for first-time buyers, growing families and empty nesters.
More than 500 townhome units are planned over several phases. The first phase features a human-scale approach—developed in partnership with architecture firm BDP Quadrangle. The design showcases underground parking, elevator access, rooftop terraces, and a common internal corridor — with a range of grade-related townhouse options.
A combination of one- and two-storey units minimizes circulation space, offering more area to the units and extra space to call home.
“What is interesting about this new design is that the units are based off a shared grid size, allowing for a degree of versatility in unit combinations”, says Richard Witt, principal at BDP Quadrangle. “A central corridor at alternating floors, served by a central elevator core, provides access to the units, essentially giving us more space to dedicate towards units, keeping the homeowner at the forefront of our design.”
The design includes two-storey upper units with rooftop patios, one-storey units with balconies, and two-storey ground units with garden patios. They range between 472 and 1,282 square feet and feature one to three bedrooms. Future phases of the community will also include stacked townhomes and traditional townhomes.
“We believe it is important to develop missing middle housing typologies that works to meet market needs while also playing a role in bringing a diverse community together”, says Matt Brown, director of product development at Minto Communities.
Minto notes the first phase includes spacious open-concept layouts and systems that reduce energy costs and improve air and water quality. Westshore is also targeting ENERGY STAR certification.
Nearby amenities offer access to splashpads, BBQ areas and expanded parks, lakefront trails, and connections to downtown Toronto by way of the 501 Streetcar or Long Branch GO station.
