Hamilton
Property Type: Existing 3-Storey Mixed-Use Building (2 Commercial + 7 Residential Units)
Project Overview
Located in the heart of Hamilton, this project focused on unlocking the full residential potential of a previously mixed-use property. The existing structure housed 2 commercial units on the ground floor and 7 residential units across the upper two floors. Our scope was to convert the ground floor into 6 brand-new residential units, bringing the total residential unit count to 13 fully self-contained apartments.
Scope & Strategy
The strategy reused the existing structure and servicing where possible while upgrading the upper units and resolving zoning and code issues associated with the commercial-to-residential conversion.
- Converted 2 existing ground floor commercial units into 6 modern residential units, optimized for efficiency and livability
- Upgraded the 7 existing upper-floor units with new in-suite laundry and cosmetic upgrades to kitchens, bathrooms, and finishes
- Maintained and re-used existing building structure and servicing to minimize construction costs and disruption
- Ensured all new units complied with OBC and municipal standards for fire separation, egress and window sizes, natural lighting, and ventilation
Challenges Solved
- Navigated zoning and code challenges associated with converting commercial space to residential use
- Required a minor variance to address a Hamilton zoning bylaw requiring a minimum 0.9 m elevation from grade to ground-floor residential units
- Maximized layout efficiency to fit 6 new ground-floor units without additions
- Planned utility and mechanical upgrades to support the increased residential load
Investor Benefits
- Increased income-generating units from 7 to 13 fully residential units
- Transitioned away from commercial tenancy risk in favour of more stable residential cash flow
- Cosmetic upgrades and in-suite amenities support higher rental rates and lower tenant turnover
- Hamilton’s residential growth and pro-development climate support long-term ROI
Current Status
Architectural designs are complete. Project is currently on hold at the discretion of the property owners.
Mixed-Use, 13 Unit, Commercial, Residential, Multi-Unit Upgrade
