CG Tower is a bold architectural landmark that rises 60 storeys above the rapidly evolving Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC), marking the final phase of the visionary Expo City masterplan. Designed by BDP Quadrangle for Cortel Group, this 604,000-square-foot residential high-rise is distinguished by its sculptural form, innovative construction methods and deep integration with its urban and natural context.
Unlike the surrounding glass towers, CG Tower is clad in richly toned precast brick panels with integrated punched windows, offering a distinctive warmth and residential character rarely seen at this scale. Its form — a composition of cantilevered and stepped boxes — creates a dynamic silhouette while allowing for expansive terraces on key levels. These outdoor spaces are programmed with community-focused amenities, transforming the building into connected vertical neighbourhoods that promotes interaction, inclusion and wellness. Amenities such as a pool, children’s play area, lounge spaces, fitness areas and coworking zones support a variety of resident lifestyles and foster a sense of belonging.
Innovation
CG Tower exemplifies innovation through its distinctive design approach, advanced construction techniques and strategic responses to complex site constraints. From concept to execution, the project pushed boundaries in high-rise residential architecture by embracing material, structural and logistical innovation while remaining deeply responsive to its urban and environmental context.
One of the most notable innovations is the use of prefabricated precast panels with factory-installed punched windows, a rare application in a 60-storey tower. This Modern Method of Construction (MMC) approach streamlined construction by reducing the need for high-risk work at height, minimizing installation time and improving quality control. This technique not only accelerated the construction timeline by approximately eight to 10 weeks but also enhanced the durability and energy performance of the building envelope. It addressed several construction challenges, such as limited laydown space, hoist congestion and the need for reliable weather protection during envelope installation.
The project’s distinctive stepped and cantilevered massing posed structural challenges, particularly in ensuring the stability and efficiency of the cantilevered sections. These were resolved through the use of Vierendeel trusses, which allowed the upper volumes to extend outward without compromising the structural integrity or internal functionality of the floorplates. This enabled spacious interiors and expansive terraces, reinforcing the tower’s architectural identity while delivering liveable and flexible residential units.
A further innovation was the integration of a mid-tower mechanical penthouse, effectively splitting the building into two mechanical zones. This strategy enabled early occupancy of the lower floors while construction continued at the upper levels, providing both operational and financial advantages to the client by allowing phased handover and earlier return on investment.
The site’s proximity to Downsview Airport introduced a strict height restriction that capped the building’s elevation. To comply, the design team developed a low-profile building maintenance unit (BMU) concealed within the rooftop silhouette. This allowed the tower to maintain its architectural clarity while still meeting functional requirements for façade maintenance.
Design Excellence
CG Tower exemplifies design excellence through its bold architectural form, contextual responsiveness and innovative use of materials and construction methods. Departing from the typical aesthetic of surrounding glass high-rises, the tower asserts a warm, residential character with its richly textured precast brick façade and punched windows — an uncommon material palette at this scale. Its sculptural form, composed of stacked and cantilevered boxes, introduces a sense of rhythm and movement to the skyline while the building rotation maximizes views of the adjacent Edgeley Pond Park. This dynamic massing strategy not only enhances the building’s visual identity but also responds sensitively to its urban and natural surroundings by minimizing shadow impact and reinforcing biophilic connections.
The project’s relationship with the public realm is a defining feature of its design. Oriented to face Edgeley Pond Park and situated adjacent to Cortellucci Square, the tower strengthens the city’s green infrastructure network while promoting walkability and social interaction. At ground level, a transparent glass podium and a dramatic, wind-mitigating canopy enhance pedestrian comfort and establish a welcoming civic presence. Inside, the design reimagines the high-rise as a series of connected vertical neighbourhoods. Amenities are distributed across several levels, including an outdoor pool, fitness area, co-working lounges and a sky-high terrace. This ensures that shared spaces are accessible to all residents and foster a strong sense of community.
Impact
CG Tower advances principles of equity, wellness and inclusion through its design, urban integration and project delivery strategy, particularly within the context of a civic hub envisioned as a walkable, transit-connected and inclusive urban core. The project is positioned to contribute meaningfully to social sustainability through its accessibility, community orientation and public realm engagement.
The tower’s design prioritizes inclusive and universally accessible features across all public and amenity areas. Entrances, circulation paths, elevators and shared amenities have been designed to meet universal design standards, ensuring all residents and visitors, including those with disabilities or mobility challenges, can navigate and enjoy the building equally. Amenities are distributed throughout the tower, not just clustered at ground level or reserved for upper floors, reinforcing equitable access for all residents regardless of floor level or ability.
CG Tower strengthens social connection through its adjacency to public parks, integration with pedestrian routes and inclusion of generous indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. These spaces, including children’s play areas, co-working lounges and rooftop terraces, foster opportunities for intergenerational engagement and promote physical and mental well-being. The project’s location, a short distance from rapid transit and cycling infrastructure, also supports economic and social inclusion by reducing dependence on private vehicles and broadening access to jobs, education and services.
Sustainability
One of the project’s most significant sustainability strategies is its low window-to-wall ratio, which reduces heat loss and improves thermal performance compared to typical glass window-wall towers. The building envelope is composed of precast panels with factory-installed punched windows, an approach that minimizes thermal bridging, enhances airtightness and increases energy efficiency. This construction method also contributes to resiliency by creating a durable, long-lasting façade that supports passive environmental control and reduces ongoing maintenance needs.
A rainwater harvesting system is integrated into the building’s infrastructure, collecting rooftop runoff in a dedicated reuse tank for irrigation purposes. This system helps reduce potable water demand and manages stormwater on site, complementing broader watershed protection initiatives tied to the adjacent Edgeley Pond and Park.
CG Tower demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, stewardship and resiliency through an integrated approach to site planning, building performance and construction methodology. Located within the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) - a district planned as a sustainable, transit-oriented urban hub - the tower aligns with the City of Vaughan’s Sustainability Metrics Program and contributes to the broader ecological and climate goals of the region.
