The String -1 Port Street, Mississauga, ON
Mixed-Use Guidelines Booklet

Group 4
Ankit Gautam - 991772336
Gayathri Jayachandran - 991773220
Hatem Omran - 991797334
Roxanne Dryding - 991799155
Group 4
Ankit Gautam - 991772336
Gayathri Jayachandran - 991773220
Hatem Omran - 991797334
Roxanne Dryding - 991799155
A) Site overview and context
B) Site details
C) C4-18 Zoning By-law
D) C4 Mainstreet commercial permitted uses
E) Zone Regulations
F) Exception 18
G) G1 Zoning By-law
2. Design Goals and Large Ideas
A) Urban Integration
● Goals
● Design directions
● Key ideas
B) Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
● Goal
● Design Direction
● Key Ideas
C) Mixed-Use Synergy and Connectivity
● Goal
● Design Direction
● Key Ideas
A) Public Realm
● Parks
● Open Spaces
● Streetscape
● Connectivity and Accessibility
B) Building massing and Layout
● Building Floor Plates
● Building separation distance
● Building Height
● Micro Climate
● Building setback and stepback
● Parking, loading, and service areas
● Architectural expression and materiality 4. Conclusion
& Appendices
This booklet serves as a draft guideline document for the mixed-use development proposal “The String” at 1 Port Street East in Mississauga, Ontario. It outlines the goals, ideas, and design principles that will inform the planning, design, and construction teams of the development. The guidelines are intended to provide clear direction for stakeholders, planners, architects, and designers to ensure a cohesive and high-quality urban environment that enhances the public realm and meets both functional and aesthetic requirements.
The String project integrates a diverse land-use strategy harmonizing residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. Street parking and basement parking are provided to support local businesses, services, and residential needs. Key features include a waterfront with a harbor and yacht club, offering recreational opportunities and enhancing the area’s appeal.
The development includes a range of services, restaurants, and hotels, ensuring a lively and convenient environment. Open spaces are thoughtfully designed to create areas for relaxation and community interaction. The project’s mobility network seamlessly connects various land uses through a well-planned vehicular network, pedestrian pathways, a waterfront promenade, and dedicated bike lanes. This network ensures easy access to all areas within The String, promoting walkability and encouraging sustainable transportation.
Municipality
City of Mississauga, Regional Municipality of Peel, Ontario
Site Area
Approximately 2 acres (subject to confirmation during design process)
Site Context
1 Port Street East is located in the Port Credit neighborhood of Mississauga, situated along the shores of Lake Ontario. The site lies within close proximity to the Port Credit Harbour Marina. The location is well-connected to other parts of Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) through a range of transportation options, including the nearby Port Credit GO Station.
● Port Credit Village: A historic village feel with modern urban development. Port Credit is known for its mix of cultural heritage, retail, waterfront parks, and active transportation routes.
● Lake Ontario: The site offers waterfront access with views of Lake Ontario, positioning it as a prime location for residential, recreational, and commercial development that can leverage the scenic views and waterfront access.
● Public Transit: The Port Credit GO Station is located nearby, providing convenient access to both local and regional transit, including connections to GO Train and Mississauga Transit (MiWay) buses. This provides connectivity to the greater Mississauga and Toronto areas.
● Accessibility: The site is accessible via major roadways, including Hurontario Street (Highway 10), which is one of Mississauga’s primary north-south corridors, and Lakeshore Road East, which runs along the waterfront.
Address: 1 PORT ST E
Roll Number: 2105090002190000000
Legal Description: PL PC4 PT SHINGLE BEACH LTS A, B, PART LT C, PT
WATER LOT PT BED LAKE ONTARIO RP 43R37972 PARTS 1 3 6 TO 8 AND 10
Zoning: C4-18(In Force); G1(In Force)
Official Plan
Designation: Greenlands; Mixed Use; Public Open Space
Heritage: LISTED ON THE HERITAGE REGISTER BUT NOT DESIGNATED
Ward: 1
Councillor: STEPHEN DASKO
City-Owned:
Site Plan Control:
Zone Code: C4-18
Zone Description: Mainstreet Commercial
Zone Category: Commercial
Greenlands Overlay: Y
By-Law: 0225-2007
Z-Area: Z08
Holding Provision: N
Fig. Illustrating abuting zones to the focus area https://ext.maps.mississauga.ca/Html5Viewer/index.html?viewer=izbl.HTML5
2.1.27 Minimum Height Requirement - Hurontario Street Corridor
All buildings containing a residential dwelling unit that are zoned C4 and are located within the hatched area identified on Schedule 2.1.27 of this By-law, shall have a minimum height of three storeys. (0325-2008), (0050-2013/LPAT Order 2020 June 08)
Schedule 2.1.27 - Minimum Height Requirement - Hurontario Street Corridor
All buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions contained in Parts 1 to 3 and Section 6.1 of this By-law, and the uses and zone regulations specified within the applicable zone column contained in Table 6.2.1 - C1 to C5 Permitted Uses and Zone Regulations.
Table 6.2.1 - C1 to C5 Permitted Uses and Zone Regulations (0325-2008), (0308‑2011), (0050‑2013/LPAT Order 2020 June 08), (0018‑2015), (0212‑2015), (0174‑2017), (0111‑2019/LPAT Order 2021 March 09), (0018‑2021), (0217-2023)
Allow for the intended developments proposed in The String project
Source: https://web.mississauga.ca/apps/zoningbylaw/#/show/p2,59,142
● Retail store: means a building, structure or part thereof, in which goods are offered for sale, lease and/or rental to consumers. Where the principal use of the retail store is the sale of food, food may be prepared on the premises and offered for sale for consumption on the premises or off the premises, as an accessory use. (0325-2008), (0297‑2013)
● Restaurant
● Veterinary clinic/Animal care establishment
● Funeral establishment
● Service establishment
● Commercial school
● Financial institution
● Office/Medical office
● Recreational/entertainment establishment
● Private club
● University/College
● Parking lot
● Apartments/dwelling units above the first story of a commercial building
MINIMUM LANDSCAPED BUFFERAND AMENITYAREA
roof 2 storeys (⁹)
11.1 MAXIMUM HEIGHT Sloped roof 16.0 m and 3 storeys
a roof where 35% or more of the total roof area has a roof angle of less than 15° above the horizontal. (0174 2017), (0158 2023)
See Illustration No. 16 -
Section 1.3 - Illustrations
16.0 m and 3 storeys
12.1 Minimum depth of landscaped buffer measured from a lot line that is a street line 0.0 m (⁸)
13.0 Parking and loading spaces shall not be located between a streetwall and a lot line that is a street line
Flat roof 12.5 m and 3 storeys
12.2 Minimum depth of a landscaped buffer measured from a lot line where the lot line abuts an Institutional, Office, Downtown Core, Employment, Buffer or Utility Zone, or any combination of zones thereof 3.0 m (⁸)
12.3 Minimum depth of a landscaped buffer measured from the lot line of a Commercial Zone that abuts another Commercial Zone 1.5 m or 0.0 m where abutting a C4 zone (⁸)
12.4 Minimum depth of a landscaped buffer measured from any other lot line 4.5 m (⁸)
12.5 Minimum contiguous amenity area
The lesser of 2.8 m2 per dwelling unit or 5% of the site area
14.0 Maximum length of a building streetwall on the first storey that may be used for accessing residential uses located above the first storey
15.0 Maximum length of a streetwall that may be set back beyond the maximum front and maximum exterior side yard
16.0The main front entrance for commercial uses located on the first storey shall be located in the streetwall on the first storey
Exception 18 allows for the commercial zone uses in C4 plus the allowance of boat storage, use, and repair activities.
6.2.5.18
Exception: C4-18 Map # 08 By-law:
In a C4-18 zone the permitted uses and applicable regulations shall be as specified for C4 zone except that the following uses/regulations shall apply:
Additional Permitted Use
6.2.5.18.1
(1)Boat repair, sales, service and storage legally existing on the date of passing of this By-law
Regulation
6.2.5.18.2
Boat repair, sales, service and storage shall be permitted both inside and/or outside any building or structure
https://web.mississauga.ca/apps/zoningbylaw/#/show/p6,2659,2774,2792
1 Port Street also falls in G1 Zone which is in force.
Purpose and Intent:
The primary purpose of G1 zoning is to preserve and protect natural areas, environmental features, and open spaces. This zoning category is intended for areas that:
● Are environmentally sensitive, such as wetlands, floodplains, woodlands, and ravines.
● Provide habitat for wildlife.
● Serve as recreational spaces for passive activities (e.g., walking, hiking, bird watching).
● Are essential for stormwater management and environmental sustainability.
In G1 zones, the permitted uses are generally low-impact and are focused on the protection of natural resources. The following are typical uses allowed under G1 zoning:
● Conservation and environmental protection: Activities that conserve the ecological integrity of the land, such as habitat restoration and the protection of water bodies and ecosystems.
● Passive recreational uses: Trails, nature walks, and other non-intrusive recreational uses that do not disturb the natural environment.
● Flood control and stormwater management: Structures and activities necessary for managing water flow and protecting areas from flooding.
● Public parks and open spaces: Where the primary function is to maintain the natural setting, with limited infrastructure for public use.
Prohibited Uses:
Because G1 zoning is focused on preserving the natural environment, there are restrictions on the types of developments that can occur. The following are generally prohibited in G1-zoned areas:
● Residential, commercial, and industrial developments are not allowed, except for certain low-impact, ancillary facilities (e.g., small, environmentally-sensitive educational or information centers).
● High-impact recreational activities, such as sports fields, golf courses, or heavy infrastructure that could damage natural habitats.
● Alteration or disturbance of natural features without appropriate permits or studies.
Special Considerations and Restrictions:
● Environmental Assessment: Development proposals in G1 zones typically require an environmental assessment to ensure that they do not negatively impact the natural environment. This could include studies related to flora, fauna, hydrology, and soil conditions.
● Natural Heritage System: Some G1 areas are part of Mississauga's broader Natural Heritage System, which is a network of natural areas that are meant to be preserved for future generations. This could include wetlands, woodlands, and other significant ecological areas.
● Floodplain and Stormwater Management: Some areas designated as G1 are subject to floodplain regulations, which can restrict development to protect against flooding risks and to preserve the natural function of watercourses.
Development Guidelines:
● Meet environmental sustainability criteria
● Integrate green infrastructure for stormwater management (e.g., bioswales, green roofs).
● Ensure ecological restoration where necessary, especially in areas where natural features have been disturbed.
Urban Integration - The Community Node
The community Node is comprised of the following precincts:
• Riverside Precinct
• Central Residential Precincts
• Mainstreet Precinct
• Harbour Mixed Use Precinct
A high quality of urban design reinforcing the enhancement of the identity of Port Credit as a vibrant and memorable urban place. Additional development is anticipated with the form and scale of the development varying in accordance with the various precincts. The overall development of the Node shall be at a scale reflecting its role in the urban hierarchy.
"The String" sets out to redefine urban integration by treating the development as a living entity connecting physical spaces economic growth, and cultural vitality by blending art, community, and sustainability. This network design offers a harmonious coexistence into the existing built neighbourhood of Port Credit. “The String” comprised of nature and urban life, is an example model for future urban developments.
Existing Guidelines: On July 7th, 2010, Mississauga's City Council adopted the Green Development Strategy promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility for new developments. Prioritizing sustainability with consideration to social and economic impacts along with whole-life costs and benefits, applicants are encouraged to incorporate green elements in design, construction, and maintenance. New developments advances in construction technology and architectural knowledge making sustainable practices feasible. Additional resources include the Canada Green Building Council, CVC/TRCA's stormwater management guide, and Mississauga's development standards and strategies.
Fig.4 Bicycle trails & wide walkways Port Credit Port-Credit-Built-Form-Guidelines.pdf page 64
“The String”: Emphasizes reinforcing the commitment to a pedestrian-first design as a habitat neighborhood nurturing residents' social and cultural lives while promoting interaction with the environment. Creating green spaces, cultural venues and corridors support the social, cultural, and economic life. Integrating sustainable techniques into every area of the development, such as energy-efficient buildings, green roofs, and stormwater management. Adaptability to endure changes in the environment and socioeconomic conditions without losing its integrity or functionality will be achieved by keeping the essence of Port Credit making it a resilient neighborhood and a sustainable and cohesive urban environment embracing future growth.
The project’s mobility network connects various land uses through a well-planned pedestrian pathways, a waterfront promenade, and dedicated bike lanes. This network ensures easy access to all areas promoting walkability and encouraging sustainable transportation. There is limited vehicular access restricted to drop-off points and underground parking facilities. Using sustainable building practices to optimize energy use and contribute to a healthier environment.
Eco-Friendly materials such as permeable paving is used to manage stormwater runoff naturally, while sustainable waste management practices are employed to minimize environmental impact.
Landscaping & Greenery
Port Credit Node Guidelines:
Landscape area refers to outdoor spaces on a lot suitable for plants, grass, flowers, shrubs, trees, walkways, retaining walls, and amenity areas excluding driveways, parking areas, roads, and areas beneath buildings.
Minimum Landscape Requirement: Minimum 30% landscape area required for sites in the Central Residential, Riverside, and Harbour Mixed Use precincts ensuring the following are met:
○ Adequate buffers between adjacent uses
○ Preservation of well-landscaped front yards, especially in high-density zones
○ Sustainable design practices, such as achieving proper fenestration
○ Protection of views to Lake Ontario
Specific Landscaping Features: A row of coniferous trees containing shrubs/perennials forming a visual buffer between different land uses.
Mainstreet Precinct: No minimum landscape area is required for compact commercial development.
A 4.5-meter landscape buffer is required when a mixed-use zone borders a residential zone.
Landscape Buffer: An open, continuous strip of land, intended for plant growth, parallel to lot lines, which may include trees, shrubs, and other landscape features.
Roof gardens and vertical gardens integrated into the design, enhancing biodiversity, reducing urban heat while improving air quality.
Establishing cohesive design guidelines using sustainable landscaping developing a harmonious color palette transforming Port Credit into a visually appealing and thoughtful environment by providing innovative botanical gardens, planters and roof gardens.
The existing land-use patterns show the Port Credit zone as primarily mixed-use and transitional streets. It limits the functionality of its potential built form for connectivity from the residential areas to the harbourfront. This grid pattern is separated in a traditional manner.
In the redesign of “The String”, land-use patterns show a variety of uses such as commercial, residential, mixed-use, restaurants, open spaces and mobility networks reimagined for the pedestrian as a high priority. The area is mixed allowing for a modern built form of vibrant connectivity making it easier to live,play and work.
When developing a public realm guideline, strategies must be developed to guarantee that areas are usable, accessible, and improve the user experience in general.
1. Parks and open spaces “The String”
These are places for people to come together and socialize, unwind, and have fun. Open lawns and flexible spaces for a range of gatherings or recreational activities. Pergolas, comfortable sitting sections, and rest spaces with shade. Interactive water installations or fountains to enhance the senses. Specialized spaces with entertaining, safe equipment for kids.pieces of public art that speak to the identity or culture of the area.
The components that define a street's aesthetic and practical character are the main focus of streetscape design. It seeks to guarantee harmony among different users and give pedestrian comfort top priority.
The street design is all about creating vibrant and interactive spaces that seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetics. We're focusing on safety, accessibility, and community engagement by incorporating wide, safe sidewalks along with bike lanes plenty of seating, and green spaces for social interactions. Plus, integrated bicycle lanes encourage eco-friendly transportation.
- Pedestrians are the main focus of the Streetscape's design, which includes broad, unhindered pathways bordered by native trees and vegetation to provide a comfortable and shaded space.
Green infrastructure is the integration of elements like rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements to efficiently manage stormwater and promote urban ecology.
The public realm's backbone is the streetscape, which functions as a connecting corridor and a destination by the first place. A well-planned streetscape improves the urban environment, encourages community interactions, facilitates movement, and adds to the local identity. Enhancing mobility, encouraging community engagement, and encouraging ecological care are the main goals of the design's reasoning. Within this dynamic mixed-use development, the streetscape acts as a crucial link between people, places, and experiences by establishing a human-scaled, multipurpose, and aesthetically pleasing environment.
The pedestrian and cyclist pathways are designed in a fluid, continuous manner, providing easy access to all site areas prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists by minimizing intersections with vehicular traffic and creating a clear separation between pedestrian pathways and vehicle lanes. Residential, business, and recreational areas are all connected by an extensive system of pedestrian walkways.
To accommodate all users, including those with disabilities, roadways and open spaces are designed with universal design principles in mind. Examples of these characteristics include curb bump-outs, wider walkways, barrier-free access, and other elements that encourage inclusion.
Port Credit built guidelines depicts building orientations should be consistent with the street grid to preserve a cohesive urban fabric. Typically, buildings along Lakeshore Rd are limited to 3-4 stories, whereas medium-rise buildings (5-9 stories) are permitted south of Lakeshore Road.
Buildings in “The String” are designed to maximise views and access to the shoreline. For example, all residential structures face open spaces and J.C. Saddington Park, allowing for maximum views and sunlight. According to the sun and shadow research, all residential buildings will receive sunlight throughout the summer, as will public open spaces.
In order to provide sufficient space between buildings for natural light, ventilation, and to lessen shadowing, minimum separation distances are required. For instance, a minimum of 15-20 meters of space is suggested as per the existing guideline.
While in “The String”, no particular separation distances are specified, the figure ground analysis shows that buildings are packed to maximise open space around them, transforming the riverfront into a lively location. The clusters are intended to provide adequate open space, resulting in a balanced urban environment.
Existing building separations. Image Credit: Port Credit Local Area Plan
Existing Port Credit Built-Form Guidelines: Harbour Mixed-Use & Waterfront Marina Area are a Community Node Character.
It is important to ensure that the size of the building, separation distance, orientation and shape of the building are considered as infill occurs. The vicinity of the Port Credit consists of the Harbour Marina, future LRT stop on Port St E, and terminuses of Stavebank Rd S, Elizabeth St S, and Helene St S.
This area will contain a mixture of uses and densities. Development should remain lower in scale than the Central Residential Precinct and step down towards the lake.
Minimum height of 2 storeys is required with a maximum height of 10 storeys stepping down to 6 on Port St and from 6 to 3 storeys towards Lake Ontario will be permitted as outlined in the Figure to the upper left.
Mixed uses along Port St E, Elizabeth St S and Helene St S are required. The main floor of all new development should be a minimum of 4.5 m in height ensuring commercial uses can accommodate on ground floor levels.
The current lack of connection between the lower port and the waterfront is addressed through interconnectivity by implementing environmental remediation and an active waterfront.
Waterfront and Leisure Activities support a well-designed harbor with water activities, enhancing the connection to the water body with accessible pathways. Key features include a vibrant waterfront including a Harbor and Yacht Club.
“The String” is utilizing a built form height near the Harbourfront Yacht Club as +42 meters (14 floors) as the highest point. Setbacks with a courtyard in between the buildings for a base height of 10.5 meters (3.5 floors) for mixed-use on the bottom level.
Port Credit Guidelines ensure a balanced skyline through height restrictions and transitions. Building heights are normally controlled, with lower heights near Lakeshore Road (usually 3-4 stories) and medium-rise structures (5-9 stories) south of Lakeshore Road. High-rise buildings (10 stories or above) are permitted on certain sites when the lot size and nearby property circumstances allow.
“The String” project features a variety of building heights ranging from +10.5 meters to +52.5 meters. The aerial picture depicts a balanced skyline with both high-rise (up to 52.5 meters) and low-rise buildings (as low as 10.5 meters).
4.1. Shadow Impact Guidelines:
Guidelines make sure that new construction doesn't unnecessarily shade nearby houses or public areas by addressing the shadow impact. This is especially crucial for preserving the quality of outdoor spaces and residential neighbourhoods.
The sun and shadow analysis ensures that all residential structures and public open spaces receive sunlight all year. This is accomplished through careful building location and orientation, ensuring that all residential structures receive sun exposure during the summer months.
Port Credit Guidelines recommend minimising wind tunnels and enhancing pedestrian comfort, particularly in high-traffic locations such as main street commercial zones.
While precise wind comfort measures are not specified, the design focuses on pedestrian-friendly surroundings and the establishment of fluid, continuous pathway networks. This implies a desire to maintain comfortable outdoor settings.
Port Credit Guidelines specify minimum setbacks for boulevard treatments, landscaping, and pedestrian walkways. Setbacks typically range between 3 and 6 meters, depending on region. Port Credit Guidelines recommend high-quality building materials and façade designs that add to the neighborhood's charm. Certain materials, such as Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems panels (more than 20% of the building material) and glass balconies (less than 50% tinting), are not recommended.
The master plan of “The String” and mobility network show plenty of open space and pedestrian walkways, but no exact setback restrictions are stated. However, the emphasis on building a unified and welcoming public space implies adherence to similar ideals.The concept consists of a progressive series of building designs that combine modern architecture with a visual identity for Port Credit. Functional artwork and ecological gardening are used to create a unified and visually pleasing setting. Roof gardens ensure that the majority of buildings have a view of the lake.
Residential Neighbourhoods
Existing Guidelines:
Parking design for servicing and loading areas is a key component in the development of sites serving as a functional need. It should be designed in a manner to address the safety and efficient pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle movement while screening less desirable aspects providing high quality treatment of exposed areas. Less parking required near transit hubs. Typically, parking is limited to 1.5 spaces per residential unit.
Parking should be located underground, internally to each building or to the rear of the buildings. Above grade parking should be designed in such a manner that vehicles are not visible to the public and having appropriate directional signage. Service, loading and garbage storage areas should be located to the rear or integrated into the building screened away from the public realm and adjacent residential uses.
“The String” offers minimal street parking to support pedestrian and cyclist movement while basement parking is provided to support local businesses, services, and residential needs.
Golf Cart & Parking -Integrates convenient parking facilities and a dedicated golf cart system, promoting easy navigation within the site.
Port Credit Guidelines emphasise high-quality building materials and architectural styles that retain the area's distinct character. The recommendations outline ideal materials and design aspects in order to maintain consistency and quality.
String Project: The concept incorporates a cohesive design approach, sustainable landscaping, a beautiful colour palette, and practical art objects. The project's goal is to make Port
Credit a more visually appealing and considerate environment by installing creative botanical gardens, planters, and roof gardens.
The existing guidelines for Port Credit in Mississauga focuses on maintaining its character, promoting a sustainable development and ensuring balance between residential, commercial, and mixed-use zones. Landscape requirements including buffers providing natural separation, proper window and door placement with energy efficiency and is visually harmonious plays a key feature to the design. Mixed-use development encouraging a vibrant waterfront community keeps to the original form of the area. High-density development is permitted with respect to the surrounding existing environment and context, especially in areas with landscaped yards and mature trees. The guideline aims to create an integrated urban environment unifying residential, commercial, and public realm with greenery, ensuring accessibility, visual appeal, and sustainable urban growth.
“The String” and its key objectives to obtaining its goals, aligns with the existing guidelines for Port Credit with some changes to the massing of the buildings closest to the waterfront while maintaining heights for clear views of Lake Ontario. There is respect for the green landscape and mobility network ensuring pedestrian friendly methods are of top priority. While there is some vehicular space throughout the newly proposed design, it is kept as discreet to the planning so the beauty of the landscape can be the enhanced feature. Adding residential and mixed-use buildings are a responsible development to ensure the local economy is well sustained as well as adding living spaces to the area creating more development promoting community growth.
A
Port Credit Built Form Guide
https://www.mississauga.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/09 104957/Port-Credit-Built-Form-Guidelines.pdf
Mississauga Zoning By-law
https://www.mississauga.ca/proje cts-and-strategies/environmental-a ssessments/1-port-street-east-prop osed-marina/
Port-Credit-Built-Form-Guidelines.pdf