To promote condominium projects, developers typically build finished model suites, filling them with furniture and everyday items like clothing and books to create a warm, lived-in feel. But Stanley Grossman took a different tack for One12 St. West in Toronto's ritzy Forest Hill neighbourhood. To emphasize his custom approach to suite design, he created a model that was essentially an unfinished open space. Then he installed movable, clear-plastic panels that people could rearrange to explore different room configurations. "We even etched possible choices for trim and moldings on the panels," Grossman said.

For the model suite launch party, Grossman stuck to his minimalist approach, decorating the space with simple cocktails tables, ice sculptures, and food displays. Bite Catering topped the tables with raw edibles such as crudit?s and Mediterranean platters filled with spicy olives, sun-dried tomato wrapped mozzarella sticks, large pieces of feta, and hummus, creamy eggplant, and red pepper dips. As well, caterwaiters from Above and Beyond passed Bite's warm finger-food creations, including mini crap cakes with wasabi mayo, grilled cheese and bacon paninis, and prosciutto and cheese wrapped asparagus. Oyster Boy and Edo Sushi were also on hand, serving raw food portions from their respective food stations.

Parting guests received individually packaged shortbread cookies with the One12 St. Clair logo on top.

—Robyn Small

Posted 02.22.07