About First Gulf
You’ve likely come across the name First Gulf if you follow Toronto’s real estate market closely. Known as an innovative real estate developer, this company inextricably interlinks with the fabric of retail and office infrastructure in Canada’s largest city. In a market that’s always competing with globe class standards, First Gulf has managed to carve out a remarkable signature, gaining prominence with projects such as the Globe and Mail Centre on King Street East.
A One-Stop Development Shop
First Gulf operates as an all-encompassing builder whose core capabilities run the gamut: from land procurement to planning clearances, leasing, financing, and real estate management. Engaging in various developments spanning office spaces, retail, mixed-use, and industrial, First Gulf sets trends in the sector. Since its inception in 1987, the power-player in property development has had more than $4 billion in assets.
Planning for the Future with Short-Term Goals
First Gulf prides itself on robust long-term strategies while delivering markers of progress in shorter, more immediate terms. This business model is advantageous for Toronto itself and for real estate investors with a keen eye for opportunities. First Gulf deeply values and understands the importance of long-lasting utility and beauty of neighborhoods. The organization foresees and initiates positive change, ensuring vibrant future employment landscapes within its development areas. This strategy not only boosts neighborhood economies but raises value for properties and investments, particularly condos.
The Sibling Powerhouse: Great Gulf
First Gulf is a sibling entity of the renowned and highly-regarded home builder, Great Gulf. Great Gulf’s capabilities mirror First Gulf’s wide reach in projects variance. It undertakes everything from building condo skyscrapers to townhouse developments, and lavish detached homes. One of the standout contributions of Great Gulf to Toronto’s downtown is the astounding 81 Yorkville. Nestled in one of the most desirable and affluent neighborhoods, this 36-story tower consists of a public park that adds a green touch to the bustling city.
A New Dawn: The East Harbour Master-Planned Community
One project that’s stirring excitement within Toronto’s real estate landscape is the East Harbour master-planned community. The eastern shoreline of Toronto has often been dubbed the prime land underutilization example in North America. However, First Gulf’s East Harbour project stands poised to revolutionize this perception.Slated to sprawl across 60 acres, this project sits adjacent to the city’s downtown core and is expected to introduce 50,000 new job opportunities, consequently placing it as a future employment core. But there’s more to East Harbour than workspaces. The community will house an eclectic mix of facilities, from offices and cultural spaces to entertainment spots, restaurants, and parks. These offerings will be interconnected with thoroughfares for walkers, fostering seamless navigation around the area.
Recognition and Accolades
First Gulf’s impeccable craftsmanship and forward-thinking mentality have not gone unnoticed. The organization has received numerous awards and accolades. Some of the company’s recent commendations include The 17th Annual NAIOP Greater Toronto Real Estate Excellence Awards’ Office Development of the Year for the Globe and Mail Centre. Additionally, the 619 Queen Street West project scored a 2017 Toronto Urban Design Award of Merit. The honors also stretch across borders. The 1401 Lawrence building in Denver, Colorado, clinched the Office Development of the Year title at the 2016 NAIOP Colorado award.
Not Just Condos: A Dynamic Influence
Even though condominiums are not their main selling point, First Gulf is an influential force in Toronto’s property market. From office buildings to reinvigorating neighborhoods, its fingerprints are evident all over the city. Signalling its unwavering commitment to growth, First Gulf’s upcoming East Harbour master-planned community will transform one of the last untouched sections of Toronto into a thriving commercial and employment region. Partnering with the equally powerful Great Gulf, First Gulf is set to embed an even more significant impact on Toronto’s real estate market scene.
351 King East: An Iconic Addition to Toronto’s Skyline
First Gulf’s 351 King East is a striking example of the developer’s work. The office building is an integral part of the St. Lawrence neighborhood on Downtown Toronto’s eastern perimeter. The building is an aesthetic harmony of blue glass panels gracefully towering over the red-bricked Victorian architecture distinctive to the area. With its LEED Gold Certification, 351 King East offers five hundred thousand square feet of spacious office areas to renowned tenants such as Globe and Mail, LoyaltyOne, and the Yellow Pages.
First Gulf has cemented its place as a key player in Toronto real estate. Its experienced hand and continuous drive for innovation have shaped the city’s landscapes and continue to expand and future-proof investment opportunities.