An architect’s drawing of a new development on Sparks Street.
Ottawa’s historic Sparks Street is set to recapture some of its former grandeur after being chosen as the location for the city’s first hotel-condominium.
The 18-storey, mixed-use complex will be built on Sparks Street near Metcalfe Street and will also include an upscale restaurant and food market.
Local developer Ashcroft Homes is behind the luxury project, which will boast panoramic views of Parliament Hill and some of the highest condo prices in the city’s history.
“I think this is the growing up of Ottawa,” says Ashcroft owner David Choo, adding that the development will help revitalize Sparks Street.
The pedestrian street and mall, once the hub of Ottawa’s commercial activity, has seen its fortunes decline i as vacancies rise and shoppers head elsewhere.
Choo hopes the project, called the “re” Hotel and Residences, will serve as a catalyst for development along Sparks, attracting more people and business to the area. “It is a very vital addition to the street,” he says.
A luxury hotel will make up the bottom floors and condominiums will be on floors eight to 18.
When units go on sale, prices will range from about $400,000 to more than $5 million for a customized penthouse.
Somerset Ward Coun. Diane Holmes says she, too, is pleased with the planned construction.
“I am delighted to see a hotel-condo developed on Sparks Street. It’s exactly what we need. We need people living in the area and people who will spend time on Sparks Street, so it’s very good news,” she says.
Development on Sparks is strictly regulated due to the street’s heritage buildings.
Special zoning regulations limit building height and ensure sunshine still reaches the street.
The development’s mixed-use nature fits with plans for the area set out in a National Capital Commission study conducted in 2004.
“Part of the recommendations of the vocation study was to develop residential units and mixed use,” says Cedric Pelletier, a media relations officer for the NCC.
“It’s great that the NCC has a developer that is interested,” says Holmes. “I think the long-term health of Sparks Street is looking good.”