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waterloowarrior
Jul 2, 2008, 7:05 PM
11 March 2010 edit: website http://www.rehotelandresidences.com/


_____________________


NCC plans new mixed-use tower for Sparks Street
Patrick Dare
The Ottawa Citizen (http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/story.html?id=6a10f108-3489-478b-93ee-d53cc843dd83)
Wednesday, July 02, 2008


OTTAWA - It's been a dream at the National Capital Commission since the 1980s: Breathe some life into Sparks Street with a distinctive new building where people live. Now the commission feels it finally has the right plan that will make it happen.

The NCC this week approved a two-building complex at its "Canlands A" property, which is between Sparks and Queen streets, just west of Metcalfe Street and within easy walking distance of Parliament Hill. Today the Sparks Street side of the property is two boarded-up buildings and the Queen Street side is a parking lot.

The commission, after many years of false starts, has chosen David Choo's Ashcroft Urban Developments as the developer for the property, with a design from Ottawa architect Roderick Lahey. Under the deal, the developer will have use of the land for 66 years, beginning Dec. 1 of this year, paying $166,500 each year. The two parties can renew the lease when it comes due.

Ashcroft won the project after a national request for proposals. The NCC has owned the land since the 1970s.

Ashcroft is to construct a building that is six storeys on Sparks Street and a building that is 16 storeys on the Queen Street side, where ground level is much lower. The development is to have rental units in the lower floors, perhaps a small hotel. In the upper floors there are to be condominium units. In total the plans call for 135 units. On the ground floor, stores are to front on Sparks Street. There will be some offices, underground parking and a restaurant on the Queen Street side of the complex.

The design includes a stairway between Queen and Sparks streets to improve pedestrian access and a courtyard between the buildings planted with ironwood trees. The project requires the use of clay brick and high quality materials and the restoration of the facade of the 1873 Centre Theatre building on Sparks Street. The TD Bank building next door will be torn down.

Peter McCourt, director of real estate management at the NCC, said that if people live on Sparks Street or occupy hotel rooms, businesses will operate to support them and the street will become "more interesting and lively," which is what the commission is after. Sparks Street is dominated by business and federal government offices, which has led to complaints that the street dies after five o'clock in the afternoon.

Mr. McCourt said the project will complement the other NCC residential project at 126 Sparks, where Morguard Corporation created 35 suites that are rented out.

"We're quite excited about this," said Mr. McCourt. "I'm hoping for good things here."

NCC chairman Russell Mills said: "We've needed that for a long time."

For the architect, Mr. Lahey, the project is something that has taken a long time but holds great promise. The project began in 2006 and could face two more years before construction begins, due to the City of Ottawa's slow approvals process.

Ashcroft will need a minor variance from the permitted zoning, though there should not be significant opposition since the change will not block sunlight to neighbours, which has been one of the biggest stumbling-blocks for new buildings on Sparks Street. The project represents a lot of what the city is after in urban development: a mix of business and residential uses, as well as building in an older neighbourhood that already has city services.

The project is a rare opportunity because of the uniqueness of the site.

Above the seventh floor people will have a spectacular view of the lawns and buildings of Parliament Hill. Those on much higher floors will also have views of the Ottawa River and the landmark buildings of the capital.

"It's one of the most unique sites in Canada," said Mr. Lahey. "It's going to be a shot in the arm for Sparks Street."

© The Ottawa Citizen 2008

http://a123.g.akamai.net/f/123/12465/1d/media.canada.com/96274514-e813-4c74-972a-6d2d9b889001/photo11.jpg

adam-machiavelli
Jul 2, 2008, 8:07 PM
OH MY GOD! How many shades of brown and grey are they planning to use? Good for them for putting more residential units downtown. But seriously, that thing is hideous!

harls
Jul 2, 2008, 8:22 PM
Another triumph.

For the architect, Mr. Lahey, the project is something that has taken a long time but holds great promise. The project began in 2006 and could face two more years before construction begins, due to the City of Ottawa's slow approvals process.

Who's the architect? this guy?

http://www.trailerparkboys411.com/images/lahey.jpg

clynnog
Jul 2, 2008, 8:29 PM
Another truimph.



Who's the architect? this guy?

http://www.trailerparkboys411.com/images/lahey.jpg

Nope...wrong guy. Roderick Lahey & Associates do a lot of architectural design work for Ashcroft/Richcraft and other builders in town. I don't believe that they do SFR's for tract builders. Love the comment in the original article about the lengthy period of time for City of Ottawa approvals.

jitterbug
Jul 2, 2008, 9:00 PM
The design is completely appropriate for Ottawa: grey, box-like and stumpy. Besides, a meazly 135 units will not exactly turn Sparks Street into Times Square. It's a beginning, but that's all. Maybe things will improve, but not in my lifetime and not as long as the NCC is involved.

citizen j
Jul 2, 2008, 9:10 PM
The design is completely appropriate for Ottawa: grey, box-like and stumpy.

True, but one might have hoped for some turquoise aluminium siding as well, given its proximity to the Claridge Plaza heritage site.

eemy
Jul 2, 2008, 11:42 PM
Another truimph.



Who's the architect? this guy?

http://www.trailerparkboys411.com/images/lahey.jpg

:haha:

cityguy
Jul 3, 2008, 1:50 AM
When will construction start?

citizen j
Jul 3, 2008, 3:35 AM
According to the NCC's Summary of the 2008-2009 to 2012-2013 Corporate Plan, the building should be complete in 2011, with occupancy projected for 2011-2012

Jamaican-Phoenix
Jul 3, 2008, 4:26 PM
Well, at least this box has some detail and colour to it. :haha:

Anything is an improvement over the rigid monochrome cubes that litter our skyline... :(

harls
Jul 3, 2008, 5:56 PM
I went by that lot this morning and got a better orientation of the site. it sure is a fine chunk of real estate! As I was standing on the corner the Peace tower chimes went off.. I'd suppose one would get used to that and it'd blend in with the background noise... kind of like someone who lives with a grandfather clock and doesn't even notice the chimes anymore.

I was also surprised by the huge trees growing in that parking lot on Queen, they must be 30-40 years old.

The TD building they want to demolish looks kind of neat inside (international style). How long has it been empty?

Mille Sabords
Jul 3, 2008, 6:06 PM
The TD building they want to demolish looks kind of neat inside (international style). How long has it been empty?

If you mean the single-storey building right on Sparks, it's been empty for at least 2 years. They used its windows last year for displays of the Capital's 150th anniversary. It's got a tall single storey - International style indeed. It might've worked as an H&M or something of that ilk but it's probably more financially viable to join it in with the Canlands site.

The one big difference between this project and the previous aborted ones, is that the TD building is now part of the picture. The NCC, in its previous calls for proposals, only wanted the Queen Street parking lot developed.

Kitchissippi
Jul 3, 2008, 8:10 PM
Curious that the HSBC building is not part of the development. I wonder if the still plan to tear it down someday for a plaza that extends from Wellington to the World Exchange.

Mille Sabords
Jul 3, 2008, 9:30 PM
Curious that the HSBC building is not part of the development. I wonder if the still plan to tear it down someday for a plaza that extends from Wellington to the World Exchange.

Nooooooo! Not THAT again! You're joking, aren't you? :haha:

Kitchissippi
Jul 3, 2008, 10:25 PM
Well the building's design does look like it belongs in a corner, doesn't it? ;)
The subtle curve to the right kinda hints at it. :D
Now, if those upper balconies wrapped around it would be a dead give away.

Mille Sabords
Jul 4, 2008, 1:20 AM
Well the building's design does look like it belongs in a corner, doesn't it? ;)
The subtle curve to the right kinda hints at it. :D
Now, if those upper balconies wrapped around it would be a dead give away.

You joker. You had me worried enough to actually go back and study the rendering. The balconies do look like they wrap around but there's a space between the buildings where cars enter the garage's ramp. Which means one way or another there won't be any retail fronting onto any side plaza...

AuxTown
Jul 4, 2008, 2:02 AM
"It's going to be a shot in the arm for Sparks Street."

Not to mention Queen Street which could benefit from any increase in activity as it is currently and urban wasteland other than the short stretch right up against Elgin. Not quite Slater Street caliber, but not far off.

firestorm02
Jul 4, 2008, 1:25 PM
You joker. You had me worried enough to actually go back and study the rendering. The balconies do look like they wrap around but there's a space between the buildings where cars enter the garage's ramp. Which means one way or another there won't be any retail fronting onto any side plaza...

http://img53.imageshack.us/img53/9738/19finalsitevz5.th.jpg (http://img53.imageshack.us/my.php?image=19finalsitevz5.jpg)

Mille Sabords
Jul 4, 2008, 6:52 PM
http://img53.imageshack.us/img53/9738/19finalsitevz5.th.jpg (http://img53.imageshack.us/my.php?image=19finalsitevz5.jpg)

Thanks! I hadn't seen that one. It's even better, much more so than a garage ramp anyway! That must be the staircase to Sparks they talked about.

m0nkyman
Jul 4, 2008, 8:53 PM
From today's Citizen (http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/views/story.html?id=db79254a-f27e-43d8-ba37-e04e06a7ebc7):
Sparking life in Sparks Street
The Ottawa Citizen
Published: Friday, July 04, 2008

The proposed development between Sparks and Queen streets may not win any awards for creative or unpredictable design, but it will perform several important functions for the neighbourhood.

The National Capital Commission has decided on a two-building complex at the "Canlands A" property, a stone's throw from Parliament Hill. The fact that the lumbering NCC has made up its mind to do something with the property is heartening; even more heartening is the fact that the mixed-use design could liven the area.

The proposal would combine condo units, rental units and perhaps a hotel, stores, underground parking and a restaurant. The pedestrian mall on Sparks Street has long suffered from a lack of night life, a problem that's in turn connected to the lack of nearby housing. Even during the day, when downtown workers and tourists stroll through with their lunches, the district is bland and lethargic. If people are living there, they'll be eating there and shopping there, even after 5 p.m.

The NCC has chosen a plan from Ashcroft Urban Developments and architect Roderick Lahey. On the Sparks Street side, the building is only six storeys, and fits in well with the heritage character and open, sunny atmosphere of the street.

The Queen Street side is 16 storeys, which is appropriate, given the proliferation of tall buildings in Centretown already. The views from the upper floors should be fantastic. There are some nice elements in the design, including a space for outdoor café seating. There's an inviting outdoor staircase between the Queen and Sparks sides (with an elevator nearby for people who can't use the stairs).

But taken as a whole, the Queen Street tower is boxy and unremarkable. It's not a bad building, but it's not inspiring. No tourist will take its picture. It fits in well with the neighbourhood - a little too well. It's like any other building in Ottawa. It's the safe choice. When architects stick their necks out with daring designs, they run the risk of community scorn (and, let it be said, scornful editorials). Still, it would be nice if the design were just a little more interesting.

It's a whole lot better than the parking lot and disused buildings on the site now, though. For too long, Ottawa's core has been neglected, and much of the blame for that lies with the NCC.

The open-air parking lots that still dot Centretown are bizarre anachronisms. Yes, some parking is necessary downtown. But every square foot in Centretown - vertical and horizontal - is precious, and should be treated that way. Parking should be underground, incorporated into building designs that encourage pedestrianism and culture. Where there are customers, there will be interesting shops, restaurants and galleries. A busy street even draws in people from outlying areas; it's not very safe or pleasant to walk from a car or bus stop along a deserted Centretown Street at 10 p.m.

There are a few encouraging signs of change on Sparks Street. The new CBC building has brought more people to the area, although it does more for Queen than for Sparks. There's still a lot of work to do, but the neighbourhood is moving in the right direction.

To see drawings of the development, go to the online version of this editorial at ottawacitizen.com/views

Not a bad editorial really.

movebyleap
Jul 5, 2008, 2:36 AM
Unbelievable that there will be no retail on the Sparks Street side!! How will this help to enliven the streetscape? I mean, first the CBC building, now THIS!! They're KILLING the street for god's sake!!!

clynnog
Jul 6, 2008, 7:56 PM
When will construction start?

Considering that the NCC is involved and the City of Ottawa will be involved in approvals, I wouldn't hold your breath.

kwoldtimer
Jul 7, 2008, 3:30 AM
This may be a dumb question, but how can they include condos in a development that will sit on leased land? At 66 years, it won't make much difference to original purchasers but at some point, as the end of the lease period approaches, won't the units lose any resale value? Are there other developments like this in Ottawa? I know land is often leased in the UK, but the leaseholds are much longer than 66 years.

Kitchissippi
Jul 7, 2008, 3:51 AM
I think 700 Sussex is on leased land, something like 99 years. There are other condos between Sussex and the market courtyards that are on leased land as well.

Mille Sabords
Jul 7, 2008, 2:12 PM
Movebyleap,

Ashcroft is to construct a building that is six storeys on Sparks Street and a building that is 16 storeys on the Queen Street side, where ground level is much lower. The development is to have rental units in the lower floors, perhaps a small hotel. In the upper floors there are to be condominium units. In total the plans call for 135 units. On the ground floor, stores are to front on Sparks Street. There will be some offices, underground parking and a restaurant on the Queen Street side of the complex.

http://a123.g.akamai.net/f/123/12465/1d/media.canada.com/96274514-e813-4c74-972a-6d2d9b889001/photo11.jpg
[/CENTER]

Where did you get the idea there was to be no retail on Sparks?

And was anyone able to see any more of the renderings on that Citizen subsite? I can't get to anything past the article and the one drawing.

TransitZilla
Jul 7, 2008, 3:12 PM
Open Sparks Street to vehicles, developer says
By Peter Kovessy, Ottawa Business Journal Staff
Mon, Jul 7, 2008 12:00 AM EST


The Sparks Street Mall between Metcalfe and O'Connor streets. (Darren Brown, OBJ)
The developer chosen to build a planned pair of mixed-use commercial and residential buildings on Sparks Street has suggested officials rethink the current vehicle ban along the pedestrian mall.

Last week, the National Capital Commission approved plans for Ashcroft Urban Developments Inc. to construct two buildings containing apartments, condominiums, office space and ground-level retail on the 'Canlands A' site bounded by Sparks and Queen streets, just west of Metcalfe Street.

While NCC officials heralded the development plan as a way of injecting much-needed energy into an area that's been criticized as relatively listless, the developer behind the proposal suggested cars, combined with the injection of more residents and retail, could generate even more life in the district.

"It is what creates a buzz, a liveliness," said Ashcroft Group owner David Choo. "This is supposed to be a catalyst for Sparks Street and I would hope that now is the time for us to start talking about opening up Sparks Street to vehicular traffic, at least in a limited way."

Mr. Choo suggested vehicles be allowed to travel along a narrow stretch between Metcalfe and O'Connor streets, where the new complex, designed by Ottawa architect Roderick Lahey, will be built.

He said those who support the vehicle ban often argue opening Sparks Street to cars will create congestion. But Mr. Choo countered by suggesting congestion in an urban area can actually be a good thing in creating a lively atmosphere, pointing to the ByWard Market as an example.

"One of the enjoyable things about going to the Market and sitting on a patio to have supper is (that) the street is humming. You need to bring some of that back to Sparks Street and you can't do that (with) just a pedestrian mall."

The Canlands A property is currently home to a pair of vacant buildings on the Sparks Street side and a parking lot on Queen Street.

At last week's NCC board meeting, Peter McCourt, the commission's director of real estate management, said it was unlikely that initial excavation work would begin until late in 2010 as Ashcroft seeks a minor zoning variance and site plan approvals from the city.

However, Mr. Choo said he hopes the process will be waived, or at least expedited, since his proposal has already gone through extensive reviews by an NCC planning committee.

Following last week's NCC meeting at the Hilton Lac-Leamy, Mr. McCourt said two developers, including Ashcroft, had qualified to submit bids after a national request for proposals.

The other bid was ultimately rejected because it was a conditional proposal and the NCC had asked for bids without any qualifications, said Mr. McCourt.


---


SPARK PLUG


The property:

106 to 116 Sparks Street has been owned by the NCC since the 1970s and currently houses two vacant buildings.


The proposal:

A six-storey building fronting on Sparks Street and a 16-storey building on Queen Street containing more than 120 residential units as well as street-level retail businesses, some office space and underground parking. Walking distance from Parliament, residents on the sixth floor and above would have a view of Parliament's east lawn.


The terms:

A 66-year ground lease would commence on Dec. 1, 2008. The developer will pay the NCC $166,500 annually.


The history:

A deal between the NCC and Morguard Corp. fell apart in 2006 after the developer proposed extensive changes to their initial plans, said Peter McCourt, the NCC's director of real estate management.



I think allowing one-way traffic on Sparks after 5PM (except during the busker fest or rib fest) might be a good thing.

c_speed3108
Jul 7, 2008, 3:38 PM
Personally I think they should keep traffic off sparks street.

The problem up there you will attract mostly delivery vehicles and tour buses. It won't add much. We will just end up with a narrow version of Queen Street. How exciting? :slob:

What Sparks street needs is more street level retail, less closed off government buildings. They need to drop stupid government requirements like bilingualism that other retail places like the Rideau Centre don't have to deal with.

They should try to find a spot to open something like a video theatre or live music venue. It can even be upstairs in a building leaving ground level for retail. They need things to attract more people to Sparks during none "office hours"...(to some degree non noon hour)

the capital urbanite
Jul 7, 2008, 8:20 PM
^ I would love to live in an apartment over-looking Sparks street ...doesn't really matter what it looks like to me.

keninhalifax
Jul 8, 2008, 4:45 PM
Here's hoping that the six-storey Sparks Street facade does indeed "fit in" well with the character of its surroundings. I'm glad to hear that the project will require a restoration of the remnants of the old Centre Theatre, but really, this project smells like a money-grab. Judging from the rendering and from Ashcroft's past work, I doubt the building materials will be of the highest quality, and pawning off condominiums on Sparks Street seems like a last-ditch option of the NCC for this site.

Couldn't have somebody come up with something a touch more creative for this very important parcel? Of course we need to bring residents back to Sparks, but there are certainly less gaudy ways of doing so.

waterloowarrior
Jul 9, 2008, 11:31 PM
Sparking a desired change
By Jim Donnelly (jim.donnelly@transcontinental.ca), Ottawa Business Journal Staff
Wed, Jul 9, 2008 3:00 PM EST

Finally, after absorbing years of flak over what many perceived to be a dying promenade – or, if not dying, then certainly on life support – the National Capital Commission has finally done something about Sparks Street.

The 'Canlands A' property between Metcalfe and O'Connor streets, for years a nondescript collection of closed-up, pathetic-looking buildings and a parking lot just spitting distance from Parliament, will now be redeveloped.

David Choo's Ashcroft Urban Developments Inc., along with architect Roderick Lahey, have been chosen as executors of the NCC's grand plan for this section of the street, which is to include two buildings containing apartments, condominiums, office space and ground-level retail.

From the artists' renderings of the project, it's going to be an impeccable addition to the city's downtown core. You can't really go wrong with sleek, airy buildings and added living space in one of the city's most desirable locations, especially for politicos looking to roll out of bed and into federal committee meetings.

Pushing further

But it seems Mr. Choo couldn't help himself from pushing a little further, despite winning one of Ottawa's most coveted development opportunities.

After getting the green light from the NCC (who've owned the land since acid rock and tie-dye was last in style), Mr. Choo decided to up the ante by suggesting a section of Sparks Street – the section right in front of his future building, no less – be opened to vehicular traffic.

This might be a good thing, and it might not. Personally, anything that plugs a little life into the public library that is Sparks Street is fine by me.

But such comments have proven anathema to Sparks purists in the past, and there are many of them.

In light of this, Mr. Choo would be wise to tread carefully.

Sparks vs. Market

Certainly, Mr. Choo's comments to OBJ about vehicular traffic "livening up" a street make sense, especially when Sparks is paired with the comparatively rambunctious ByWard Market. It's a concept that may even make sense to the weird conglomeration of Sparks Street overlords, which includes the NCC, the Sparks Street Mall Authority, the City of Ottawa and Public Works and Government Services Canada.

That, however, has yet to be determined – after all, just last summer many Ottawans spoke in favour of further banning parts of the city's downtown core to vehicles. Last year, debate raged after several suggestions that the city close the ByWard Market to auto traffic, or at least large sections of it.

Considering the years of hand-wringing and wasted debate that's led us to last week's announcement of Sparks Street regeneration, Mr. Choo would probably be wise to content himself, for now at least, with what he's been awarded. That is, of course, the go-ahead to build one of Ottawa's most anticipated development projects.

http://www.ottawabusinessjournal.com/292115414835552.php

the relative lack of good stores and destinations is a big reason not to go to sparks and go to the market instead. If the NCC got some more restaurants, nice stores, more pubs, etc instead of all the tourist traps I'm sure many more people would go. chicken and egg problem I guess. I'm sure the amount of new residents will help things. having queen and wellington so dead (lobbys, blank walls, etc) sure doesn't help things though

harls
Jul 10, 2008, 6:27 PM
Here's a quick pano of the Queen Street side I took this afternoon..

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3075/2655704857_05e6fe9513_b.jpg

Jamaican-Phoenix
Jul 10, 2008, 7:15 PM
I've always loved that little patch of green for some reason... :haha:

AuxTown
Jul 10, 2008, 10:40 PM
I've always loved that little patch of green for some reason... :haha:

It's a big hole in what is a relatively consistent street wall along Queen. I will be very happy to see it filled. Doesn't mean we can't have some nice street trees and landscaping around it though.

waterloowarrior
Sep 3, 2008, 12:17 AM
ashcroft has a bunch of renderings on their site
http://www.ashcroft-homes.com/about/canlands.aspx




http://www.ashcroft-homes.com/uploads/canlands/sparks1.jpg

http://www.ashcroft-homes.com/uploads/canlands/sparks2.jpg



http://www.ashcroft-homes.com/uploads/canlands/sparks3.jpg


http://www.ashcroft-homes.com/uploads/canlands/sparks4.jpghttp://www.ashcroft-homes.com/uploads/canlands/sparks5.jpg

Aylmer
Sep 3, 2008, 12:35 AM
Not bad, but I think that it should spurt a couple more floors (20-25)...

:)

lrt's friend
Sep 3, 2008, 12:08 PM
:previous:

and put Sparks Street into even more of a dark shadow???

harls
Sep 3, 2008, 2:23 PM
Gotta keep that box-top skyline consistent.

cityguy
Sep 4, 2009, 1:23 AM
Any news on this project.

Kitchissippi
Sep 4, 2009, 2:00 AM
Something tells me this project is going to get caught up in the downtown transit tunnel issue. It is such a great location for a station, especially for direct access to Sparks Street and Parliament Hill. The NCC would be stupid not to consider these aspects of the site since it would end up being a major tourist gateway

waterloowarrior
Jan 12, 2010, 10:57 PM
A flicker of hope for a lean promenade (http://www.obj.ca/Opinion/The-Marketplace/2010-01-12/article-424209/A-flicker-of-hope-for-a-lean-promenade/1)
Top-notch resto (:jester:) , hotel amenities in store for condo lovers who take up residence on Sparks Street

Published on January 12th, 2010

MICHAEL PRENTICE

Finally, there’s some terrific news for Sparks Street, the downtown thoroughfare that once throbbed with life but which has been deadly-dull for decades.

As initially reported in OBJ back in July of 2008, the street – a pedestrian mall just a few steps from the Parliament Buildings – will soon be the location of Ottawa’s priciest condo apartment building as well as a world-class hotel, a high-class restaurant and a large, upscale grocery.

The $80-million-plus project should bring people and life back to a street that has been sadly lacking both for as long as many Ottawans can remember. At present, most business and life on the street is generated by federal public servants on their lunch break. Sparks Street is pretty much dead the rest of the time.

If present plans come to fruition, a 106-room boutique hotel and a condo tower with up to 70 luxury apartments will open in late 2013, or soon after. The site is on the south side of Sparks Street, just west of Metcalfe Street. The development will extend south to Queen Street.

“This is an iconic location, and we want to make it a Canadian icon,” says David Choo, president of Ottawa builder Ashcroft Homes, which won a competition to develop the site. Ashcroft Homes will build the development and own the hotel.

The National Capital Commission has been criticized for stifling the life out of Sparks Street. But in this case, the NCC deserves some credit. It set criteria for development of the site, and decreed that any new buildings should preserve the old facade on the Sparks Street side. Part of the so-called “Canlands A” site bounded by Sparks and Queen streets, just west of Metcalfe Street, is now a parking lot. It also includes a former branch of TD Canada Trust bank, now closed. The nondescript old bank building will be demolished.

The development will have two chief components, with the smaller (six-storey) part on Sparks and the larger (17-storey) part, including condos on the upper floors, facing Queen. The restaurant and grocery store will be among retailers at or close to ground level.

Mr. Choo, who is among Ottawa’s busiest and most successful developers, sees the project as a sign of the capital’s growing maturity as a world-class city.

“In Ottawa, there is really no five-star hotel accommodation,” he says. “The Chateau Laurier is the grand lady of hotels, but I’ve heard complaints that the rooms there are small. Our hotel will be a very modern foil to the Chateau.”

He adds: “Our hotel will be one-of-a-kind, destined to become a Canadian icon.”

There is nothing to compare with this location, Mr. Choo says. It has a unique position, so close to the Parliament Buildings and in the heart of the city. Many of the condo apartments will look out on Parliament.

Ashcroft Homes has hired Toronto-based Cecconi Simone interior design consultants to work on the hotel.

Mr. Choo has chosen to name the hotel Re – as in “rediscover” and “rejuvenate,” he explains. But what’s in a name? “People are looking for more individual, more personalized experiences,” he says. The average room size will be almost twice what it is in many hotels, according to Mr. Choo.

The builder says the time is right for this project. “The condo market is growing up. More and more people want the best. Yet condos in Ottawa are still very affordable, compared with other major cities.”

The condos will be the first in Ottawa attached to a luxury hotel, though this is a well-established concept in many cities, Mr. Choo says. It will mean condo owners can get all hotel services – at a price – that are available to hotel guests. Don’t feel like cooking or going out to dinner tonight? Just call room service.

“This will not be your typical condo,” promises Mr. Choo, who says per-square-foot prices will be the highest in the city. How high is that? A 1,000-square-foot apartment is likely to cost close to $400,000, he says.

The sky’s the limit if a buyer wants a penthouse occupying the entire top floor. In that case, the price could run to $4 million, or more.

Mr. Choo is seeking a top chef to run the hotel restaurant. He hopes the eatery will be recognized as the city’s best.

And, not least for shoppers, public servants, nearby residents and tourists, there will be a 6,000-square-feet food market selling quality produce. Mr. Choo expects construction to start within two years, with completion date as early as late 2013.

This could be the start of something really big for Sparks Street. Heaven knows, it needs it after all the lean years.

reidjr
Jan 30, 2010, 4:00 PM
Has this been approved as of yet.

gjhall
Feb 2, 2010, 5:25 AM
I've noticed some work being done in the old TD branch that's part of this project and is supposed to be torn down. They've redone the walls and hung modern light fixtures, some woodwork and club chairs.

Looks like either a sales centre or a lounge of some kind. Didn't think to take a picture at the time. Does anyone know what's going on here?

waterloowarrior
Feb 6, 2010, 12:06 PM
http://www.rehotelandresidences.com/

not much there yet

gjhall
Feb 6, 2010, 6:37 PM
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2804/4335414980_27ebc9c31b_b.jpg

Here's the ad appearing in the Citizen's Homes section today. Prices from $400k to over $5 million.

I think we can all agree that is unprecedented pricing ambition for Ottawa, though the location is tremendous. Not sure how many people make the well over $1m/yr necessary to qualify for THAT mortgage.

rakerman
Feb 6, 2010, 9:35 PM
Could we change the thread title to "Canlands A Development (re Hotel & Residences)"?

harls
Feb 7, 2010, 3:46 AM
done.

5 million.. yow..

Kitchissippi
Feb 7, 2010, 2:47 PM
Well, I've reviewed my options and I certainly am not confident I will purchase my new residence at re :)

It's too bad, that location would have been great for a signature LRT tunnel entrance/commercial hub for the Sparks Street/Parliament Hill area instead of a luxury hideaway that's beyond reach for most of us.

harls
Feb 9, 2010, 1:04 PM
Where did they get the 'actual view' for Parliament.. a balloon? (j/k)

Davis137
Feb 9, 2010, 6:51 PM
Either way, it's great to see other buildings taller than 10 stories being proposed and potentially built in the downtown area...

waterloowarrior
Feb 9, 2010, 7:21 PM
Where did they get the 'actual view' for Parliament.. a balloon? (j/k)

Not too far off, it could have been something like this
http://www.blimppics.com/index.html

(Although maybe it was just from an adjacent building)

harls
Feb 9, 2010, 8:27 PM
I didn't know those photo blimps existed. Looks like my joke just failed. :laugh:

I'm thinking a nearby building for sure (although for the prices they are charging for units I'm sure they could afford such an expense easily).

ServiceGuy
Feb 9, 2010, 10:02 PM
When I used to do architectural photography I would occasionally use a helicopter to get "actual views" for pre-leasing purposes but near by buildings were far more common as they don't require the binder full of permits needed to hover so low within the downtown core. Another option would be boom trucks or cranes designed for personnel. Once I even took shots from the top of the tower crane used for the original Canlands / World Exchange Plaza... now that was a rush. :cool:

gjhall
Feb 11, 2010, 2:54 PM
I spoke with someone in their sales team today and got a few details I thought I'd share:

Launch will be April 14th.

They're looking to have focus groups from pre-registrants to go over plans and final planning stages.

The hotel will occupy the first 6 floors in both the Sparks and Queen street buildings, attached by retail and atrium space. The 14th floor will be a sky lounge for residents. The residence will have a private entry from the hotel and retail sections on Queen street.

gjhall
Mar 16, 2010, 2:01 AM
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4436621537_f6da671cc5.jpg

waterloowarrior
Mar 16, 2010, 2:06 AM
The image above links to gmail (attachment?), you may have to save it and upload it to imageshack or another hosting website

Radster
Mar 16, 2010, 1:52 PM
A flicker of hope for a lean promenade (http://www.obj.ca/Opinion/The-Marketplace/2010-01-12/article-424209/A-flicker-of-hope-for-a-lean-promenade/1)
Top-notch resto (:jester:) , hotel amenities in store for condo lovers who take up residence on Sparks Street

Published on January 12th, 2010

MICHAEL PRENTICE


The development will have two chief components, with the smaller (six-storey) part on Sparks and the larger (17-storey) part, including condos on the upper floors, facing Queen. The restaurant and grocery store will be among retailers at or close to ground level.




Shouldn't the thread title be changed to 17 floors?

rakerman
Mar 17, 2010, 12:27 AM
CBC - Sparks Street condo project launches (http://www.cbc.ca/canada/ottawa/story/2010/03/16/ott-condo-sparks.html) - March 16, 2010

blackjagger
Mar 17, 2010, 12:56 AM
That article mentions three interesting things. First that condos will be on floors 8 to 18 so if that is true were up to 18 stories. Next that if sales are good we're looking at 2012/13 occupancy so construction would start pretty fast after sales if we can assume a two year construction period due to location and finish quality. Lastly that some form of "market" will be in the base, sounds more like an up scale food court the way he describes it, but interesting none the less.

Cheers,
Josh

waterloowarrior
Mar 19, 2010, 5:26 PM
Citizen article on the launch (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/travel/Luxe+living+Hill/2702509/story.html)

Toronto’s highly regarded design team of Cecconi Simone have created designs for the condos, showcased in a luxe sales centre that will be the setting for a rocking by-invite-only launch party on April 14.

Ottawa’s real estate diva Marnie Bennett and marketing guru Karen Wood are culling an invite list of 350 “movers” and politicians in Ottawa. Star Motors, an auto dealer, estimates there are 2,500 Mercedes owners in Ottawa and many will be at the event. Holt Renfrew and Jubilee Jewellers are also on board, says Bennett, who says there are already about 200 on the registration list, including single men moving up the corporate ladder.

“About 40 per cent are single men,” she adds. “A lot are in the financial world and lawyers. There are also couples in their 40s and 50s,” says Bennett, whose office was just named the top performing Keller Williams location in the world.

She also has a short list of clients interested in condos topping $1 million and there is interest in the $5 million condo.

waterloowarrior
Mar 20, 2010, 2:36 PM
Source: Citizen

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/opinion/2706915.bin?size=620x400

Ottawade
Mar 28, 2010, 8:54 PM
Wow. I like what I see going on in that model a lot. Ground floor pedestrian use, good integration with the rest of the street with the setback tower so it does not become over imposing...

waterloowarrior
Apr 15, 2010, 3:58 AM
full website is up... http://www.rehotelandresidences.com/ has some nice renderings

saw a tent on Sparks this evening, I guess for today's (Wednesday's) launch

jcollins
Apr 15, 2010, 12:48 PM
Wow. This thing's going to be awesome when it's done.

CondoConnection
Apr 15, 2010, 7:25 PM
Did anybody get a chance to attend the launch? Pricing? I had rsvp'd but had to cancel last minute. I will stop by the sales centre shortly and post the information.

gjhall
Apr 15, 2010, 9:32 PM
Did anybody get a chance to attend the launch? Pricing? I had rsvp'd but had to cancel last minute. I will stop by the sales centre shortly and post the information.

Yes, I attended. I have the price list which I will scan at some point and get it up here. Prices were $388,000 to mid-700s for the ones with prices, the upper floor apartments over 1000 sq ft were all upon request, which I'm guessing are all over a million.

They claimed the top floor $5M place was "reserved" but it felt like a ploy to me. They have a show suite built inside the presentation centre of a 2 bedroom apartment. As you would expect, very good finishes all around.

It's a bit rich for my blood right now, but there's no doubt I would buy there if I could swing it.

Davis137
Apr 16, 2010, 1:59 PM
Looked at the website, and some of the picture galleries of a typical suite and unit in the building. It looks very 1970's/1980's utra-modern/contemporary is some respects, at least in the example pictures they have posted up.

Looks nice, and I like the superimposed image of the building in the skyline at night, with WEP behind it...adds some nice height behind the buildings on Wellington in that immediate area...

waterloowarrior
Apr 17, 2010, 4:25 PM
OBJ has a slideshow from the re launch
http://www.obj.ca/Slideshow/1205/Launch-of-re-Hotel-and-Residences-Sparks-Street/1

Kitchissippi
Apr 17, 2010, 5:04 PM
Eeek. Is that more turquoise glass I see?

Did they really need a Mercedes Benz parked at the entrance -- a bit tacky. I guess some rich people need constant reminders of their wealth.

ajldub
Apr 17, 2010, 5:10 PM
:previous:
My thoughts exactly. Fast cars, hot chix, and wine in martini glasses... does any of this come with the unit?

Skipper
Apr 17, 2010, 9:46 PM
a

AuxTown
Apr 25, 2010, 4:48 PM
Top of the world
Martinis, rock shrimp and the prospect of living steps away from Parliament Hill. All you need is money.

By Patrick Langston, The Ottawa Citizen April 24, 2010

Maybe David Choo is right in insisting that Ottawa is more like New York and other heavy hitters than we imagine. There was certainly nothing small-town about the by-invitation-only shindig that Ashcroft Homes, Choo's company, hosted on Sparks Street earlier this month.

The occasion, more toney reception than sales event, was the launch of re Hotel & Residences, a posh condo-cum-boutique-hotel that Ashcroft is building on the old Canlands site straddling Sparks and Queen streets near Metcalfe.

With its view of Parliament Hill, re promises to be an urban jewel. There will be 90 condos and 110 hotel rooms.

"These people are very sophisticated, seasoned, savvy buyers. They've been around," says the ever-intense Choo, as he scanned the crowd of 450 well-heeled guests.

Servers, meanwhile, balanced trays of martinis along with sustainable Florida rock shrimp sui mai dumplings and mustard-crusted rack of lamb prepared under the watchful eye of Restaurant e18hteen executive chef Matthew Carmichael.

"Sophisticated" seemed an accurate description of the way arriving guests glanced almost casually at the two Mercedes, furnished by Star Motors as part of re's marketing scheme, parked at the sales centre's Sparks Street entrance. Ditto folks' apparent nonchalance about prices -- $400,000 for a 567-square-foot unit rising to $5 million for the 2,437-square-foot penthouse -- that would make your average condo buyer a candidate for cardiac arrest.

"You could put your money in the bank and get zero interest or buy one of these and rent it," says Ottawa businessman Pierre Lariviere with consummate logic. He hadn't pulled out his chequebook yet, but was thinking about it. "It's an ideal place to rent to people who live outside Ottawa and come here to work."

For anyone wanting to learn more about re's design features, project architect Rod Lahey, tall and distinguished in a pin-striped suit, stood by a scale model of the sleek, modern building.

"Imagine the chance of doing something just a block from Parliament Hill. It's like doing something on the Mall in Washington, D.C.," he said, pointing to the model. If you'd been Alice in Wonderland, you could have slugged back some magic shrinking potion for a quick tour of the model site's two buildings: a six-storey structure with ground-floor retail shops fronting Sparks Street and, joined to it by an interior courtyard, an 18-floor building facing Queen.

Original facades on Sparks will be maintained, a two-storey foyer will face Queen, and the interior courtyard will mean natural light for both buildings. Plans include a lower courtyard. "Light will pour into it for the lunchtime crowd," says Lahey.

Knowing that seeing is believing when you have lawyers, entrepreneurs and a senator in the crowd, Ashcroft had outfitted a two-bedroom, fully furnished model suite inside its sales centre. Posted at the doorway on launch night, wearing tails, white gloves and a friendly yet deferential expression, was Raymond the Butler. "A lovely evening," he intoned to us.

When the building opens in spring 2013, there will be a real-life butler providing concierge services to condo owners, who will also be able to call on the hotel's room services when feeling peckish. On launch night, actor Sylvain Landry was our butler. Asked if he'd be snapping up one of re's units, Landry answered: "Ahhh, no. I like my inexpensive little townhouse in Gatineau."

As Raymond chatted, nearby guests, having moved on from martinis to mid-priced chardonnay and merlot from Sandbanks and Huff Estates, reviewed the day's golf game with acquaintances or bussed each other on the cheek. One gentleman was spotted wolfing back darling little key lime and mint tartlettes from Ottawa's Thyme & Again as though he hadn't eaten in a week -- unlikely, considering the cut of his suit.

Sweet-toothed or not, guests were doubtless heeding the evening's unspoken message: "Live here and you're among your own kind."

Inside the model suite (977 square feet, starting at $624,450 with monthly condo fees of $517.81), it's all about contemporary. The Toronto design firm Cecconi Simone has outfitted bathrooms and the amenity-packed kitchen with European fixtures and cabinetry, ample storage room -- a plus for downsizing baby boomers -- and sleek, high-end Gaggenau appliances.

Smart design abounds. The entrance to the spare bedroom features frosted, sliding glass entry doors in one corner instead of the usual space-wasting swing door. The master bedroom includes a generous walk-in closet next to the ensuite, minimizing steps between showering and dressing. The living room is a cosy enclave.

"Very clean and sharp, a good use of space," commented Ottawa real estate professional Charles Sezlik, one of the guests.

Not everyone was so sure. "Ikea-ish," declared Lena Hellyer, looking at the mostly white, sharp-angled master bedroom. "It's too stark and cold." Someone else found the tiny pot lights in the en-suite so blinding that he flicked them off.

Tony Kiwan liked what he saw well enough to put a reserve on an 11th-floor unit. "I wanted something in the core," said the Ottawa entrepreneur. "Here, you're practically living on Parliament Hill. I'm going to rent it and if we decide to downsize, we have this option ready."

By the time the last guests left, 14 units had been added to the reserve list, bringing the total to 22.

Real estate guru Marnie Bennett, one of the organizers of the evening, summarized the night's success.

"We're marketing to the affluent. It's friends of friends and bragging rights and all about being pampered."

- - -

re Hotel & Residences

Sales centre: 106 Sparks St.

Phone: 613-232-1081

© Copyright (c) The Ottawa Citizen

Everying about this project sounds absolutely pretentious so far. I couldn't imagine having to live in a building filled with the clientele they are describing. How many units total will this project have? 22 sold so far sounds like not very many. I guess we will see how much money there really is in Ottawa....and whether that money is remotely interested in downtown living. I would like to see this project happen just to bring a bit of life back to Sparks Street. It may not bring that street back from the dead, but it will be a start.

waterloowarrior
Apr 25, 2010, 6:18 PM
90 units total according to the article so 24% sold

rakerman
Apr 25, 2010, 8:06 PM
Everying about this project sounds absolutely pretentious so far.

They should have named it pREtentious hotel & residences. Now, where has that darn butler put my spare Mercedes?

kwoldtimer
Apr 25, 2010, 11:06 PM
Second fluff piece in the Citizen that refers to Mercedes in the marketting approach - seems like they have confused sophisticated with geriatric. :rolleyes:

Kitchissippi
Apr 25, 2010, 11:46 PM
The butler was just an actor playing the part, so maybe the Mercedes actually had a Hyundai engine under the hood :haha:

Davis137
Apr 26, 2010, 1:59 AM
They need something like a Shelby GT500KR or Supersnake parked out front, or a Corvette ZR1...that'd be more interesting...

AuxTown
Apr 26, 2010, 3:45 AM
They need something like a Shelby GT500KR or Supersnake parked out front, or a Corvette ZR1...that'd be more interesting...

I would settle for a Rolls Royce Phantom or a Maybach 62 :tup:

http://phantom-rollsroyce.info/images/wallpapers/Rolls%20Royce%20phantom-134905.jpeg

http://luxuryonwheels.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/maybach.jpg

waterloowarrior
Apr 30, 2010, 8:33 PM
Photos from the launch party (http://modernottawa.blogspot.com/2010/04/re-hotel-and-residences-launch-party.html) and the model suite from Modern Ottawa

acottawa
May 1, 2010, 5:43 PM
I wonder if they found someone to pay 400k for a 567 sq foot unit (which I assume is on the second floor facing Queen)?

TOexpat
Jun 1, 2010, 5:23 PM
I'm failing to see why anyone would pay such a premium to live in a complete dead zone. There is nothing happening there after 5 and it is kind of awkwardly in-between the Market and Elgin St. Good luck selling these units!

Kitchissippi
Jun 1, 2010, 5:48 PM
I'm failing to see why anyone would pay such a premium to live in a complete dead zone. There is nothing happening there after 5 and it is kind of awkwardly in-between the Market and Elgin St. Good luck selling these units!

The people who have the money to drop on these units are not after the kind of "excitement" that the Market or Elgin Street offer. They'll buy there more for the prestige of boasting you have a place a block away from Parliament Hill in line with the Peace Tower.

McC
Jun 1, 2010, 8:51 PM
agreed, the relative quiet (for smack downtown) would likely be a plus.

AuxTown
Jun 1, 2010, 9:17 PM
The people who have the money to drop on these units are not after the kind of "excitement" that the Market or Elgin Street offer.

I agree. Not quite as dead as Sparks, but one of the best things here at Mondrian is that it really quiets down in the evenings. It doesn't quiet down to the point of being "dead" but it's a nice change of pace from the hussle and bussle of daytime along Bank.

p_xavier
Jun 1, 2010, 10:43 PM
Wow, the bathroom is identical to my current appartment one. And I mean identical! There is no way that place is worth 800$ per square feet... Sure it looks modern, but the materials are definitely not top of the line.

TOexpat
Jun 2, 2010, 3:12 AM
So Ottawa that the premium is on living in a quiet space. Failing to see the prestige of living on Queen St, which will be quiet because it is empty, except of course for the buses. :shrug:

People live smack downtown to be able to walk out their front door and be in the middle of a city. There is nothing prestigious about living a few blocks from the Hill in a dead zone; a few people will have the incredible view, but otherwise it is kind of ridiculous. Maybe I am in the wrong demographic (under 40) but I live downtown because I like being downtown.

ajldub
Jun 2, 2010, 10:28 AM
Not really particular to Ottawa at all. The Ritz-Carlton Toronto and Trump Toronto are both being built on streets that are pretty much dead after 6 pm. It's just what happens when you build residential in a very commercial neighborhood.

PS. I doubt this puppy makes it to shovel. I could be wrong though.

harls
Jun 2, 2010, 10:29 AM
I think the premium has more to do with living so close to Parliament than anything. along the same line of thinking...does anyone know how much it costs to rent office space that close to the Hill? it must be outrageous.

maybe being steps from a future subway line is added into the equation too..

McC
Jun 2, 2010, 11:51 AM
@TOexpat: recommend you pause for a moment and consider that different people can have different motivations and desires animating their decisions.

All the factors that you cited as "kind of ridiculous" sound to me like they'd be major premiums for, let's say an empty-nester DM couple, or a top-drawer lobbyist (or lobbying firm/association, to make the unit available to their executives when they're in Ottawa): they're in their early sixties, and their money is relatively cheap and their time is very expensive; they don't want maintenance, they don't want to commute; they do want a short walk to restaurants, the NAC and the market, but they really don't want noisy nights or vagrants on site... sounds like this place fits the bill perfectly!

p_xavier
Jun 2, 2010, 12:22 PM
@TOexpat: recommend you pause for a moment and consider that different people can have different motivations and desires animating their decisions.

All the factors that you cited as "kind of ridiculous" sound to me like they'd be major premiums for, let's say an empty-nester DM couple, or a top-drawer lobbyist (or lobbying firm/association, to make the unit available to their executives when they're in Ottawa): they're in their early sixties, and their money is relatively cheap and their time is very expensive; they don't want maintenance, they don't want to commute; they do want a short walk to restaurants, the NAC and the market, but they really don't want noisy nights or vagrants on site... sounds like this place fits the bill perfectly!

Yes, but to pay 400k$ to save one block of walking is ridiculous. The Ritz and Trump tower have prestigious finishings, not so much, if not at all for this building.

phil235
Jun 2, 2010, 3:30 PM
So Ottawa that the premium is on living in a quiet space. Failing to see the prestige of living on Queen St, which will be quiet because it is empty, except of course for the buses. :shrug:

People live smack downtown to be able to walk out their front door and be in the middle of a city. There is nothing prestigious about living a few blocks from the Hill in a dead zone; a few people will have the incredible view, but otherwise it is kind of ridiculous. Maybe I am in the wrong demographic (under 40) but I live downtown because I like being downtown.

It's not exactly a long walk from there to the Market or Elgin Street, and for many it could also be a very short walk to work. Seems pretty centrally located to me.

P.S. Queen St. isn't a major bus route.

TOexpat
Jun 2, 2010, 4:43 PM
Sorry, right about the bus route. I also take the point about the empty nesters. My point about the location is that it is sort of a dead zone and this will not appeal to young professionals who are the target market for the many one-bedrooms in this building. I just don't think you'll find many takers for that price in that location. I actually have three good friends right now who are looking for their first condos and have big downpayments (i.e. the target market for this building) and they will only live in the market. I think for most youngish people if you live downtown you want to live in the heart of downtown, which is why for example that Midtown East in NY is considered lame - good location in theory but lame. Same thing for this area, it is very close to a lot of good things, but there isn't much in the immediate vicinity. Sure everything is within a ten-fifteen minute walk, but for younger people when you live downtown you want to be smack downtown and have everything out your front door or literally around the corner, which is why every one-bedroom in the market gets snatched up after being on the market for a day. I'm on Sussex and I love that I can pop out my door and have a pick of ten decent restaurants within a five minute walk (especially when it's minus 20 out!).

It is great to see a development like this that would breathe life into that area, but just a little sceptical that you'll find many people willing to pay $500,000 (??) for a 600sqf condo overlooking Queen St.

McC
Jun 2, 2010, 5:14 PM
@TOexpat, again, as I said, I don't think "most youngish people" is the target market for this building, just the opposite.

kwoldtimer
Jun 3, 2010, 1:11 AM
@TOexpat, again, as I said, I don't think "most youngish people" is the target market for this building, just the opposite.

Indeed, if you recall the recurring Mercedes references in the early marketing, the target market seemed more geriatric than youthful. Although I think anyone who would narrow their search for a home to the Market rather than looking ten or fifteen minutes walk further afield (east, south or west) is doing themselves a disservice.

Ottawan
Jun 3, 2010, 2:10 AM
Indeed, if you recall the recurring Mercedes references in the early marketing, the target market seemed more geriatric than youthful. Although I think anyone who would narrow their search for a home to the Market rather than looking ten or fifteen minutes walk further afield (east, south or west) is doing themselves a disservice.

I definitely fit in the 'young professional' group, and if I had the money, I would buy here in a second. Why? Less than five minutes to work, and because I'm not geriatric and so don't mind a very short walk, the fact that I'm centrally located in between the three most vibrant downtown areas (Elgin, the Market, Bank Street) is ideal. The views would quite simply be the best in the entire city (if you can face North).

Additionally, I would be happy to lead the charge to reinvigorate Sparks.

Of course, I don't have the money...

kwoldtimer
Jun 3, 2010, 3:26 AM
...............

Of course, I don't have the money...

Oh well, give it a year and prices may be much more attractive! ;)

Skipper
Nov 25, 2010, 11:10 AM
It looks like this "exclusive building" has made itself an image too exclusive for most of the people who can afford it. I'm sorry but when we bought a house that cost more than the average condo in this tower, I didn't need to get a "private appointment" nor did I need to see a Mercedes parked in the sales office along with a senator at the launch!

gjhall
Nov 25, 2010, 3:39 PM
Last I heard they were at 30 or 35%.

kevinbottawa
Nov 25, 2010, 5:23 PM
When I went to one of those Wednesday open houses they said they were planning to start construction in January and that a Pusateri's type of store would be in the ground level commercial space on Sparks Street. Maybe January is wishful thinking.

reidjr
Nov 25, 2010, 6:05 PM
Does anyone think this we really be built or is just a dream at this point.

Ottawan
Nov 25, 2010, 6:13 PM
Does anyone think this we really be built or is just a dream at this point.

I think it's fairly obvious that this will be built. Delayed, perhaps, but with support of the NCC, Council, all planning hurdles passed, already 30% sold (remember that it takes longer to sell units to the ultra-high-end market), and the sheer value of the location, there is no doubt it will be built.