Hamilton
Property Type: Existing 3-Storey Vacant Commercial Building
Scope of Work: Phase 01 — Interior Conversion of 2nd and 3rd Floors into 5 Residential Units | Phase 02 — Planned Conversion of Ground Floor Commercial to 3 Bachelor Units (Total: 8 Units)
Project Overview
This adaptive reuse project in Downtown Hamilton focuses on converting a vacant 3-storey commercial building into a vibrant mixed-use property. Under Phase 01, the second and third floors are being transformed into five legal residential dwelling units—including three top-floor units with added mezzanine spaces that take advantage of the building’s full vertical potential. The ground floor’s commercial units remain untouched for now but are slated for conversion into three bachelor units under Phase 02, pending a Record of Site Condition (RSC) to confirm the space is suitable for residential occupancy.
This project was originally started with another design firm. However, after permit approval, the owners encountered challenges during construction that the previous firm did not support. Our team was brought in to revise the approved permit, provide full construction-phase guidance, and prepare the next phase of the project—ensuring continuity, code compliance, and clarity every step of the way.
Scope & Strategy
- Converted upper two floors into 5 residential units within existing building shell
- Designed 3 mezzanine-style 1-bedroom units on the 3rd floor to maximize ceiling height
- Retained the ground floor commercial use for Phase 01
- Prepared concept and design updates for Phase 02, proposing 3 ground floor bachelor units
- Developed self-contained units with individual HVAC, hot water tanks, and in-suite laundry
- Maintained full compliance with Ontario Building Code and City of Hamilton Zoning Bylaws
- Leveraged downtown zoning provisions to eliminate parking space requirements
Challenges Solved
- Inherited an incomplete design handoff from another firm post-permit, and re-engaged with construction team to ensure compliance and clarity
- Coordinated with structural engineers and contractors to validate mezzanine framing and fire separations
- Navigated future RSC requirements for the Phase 02 commercial-to-residential conversion
- Ensured that all alterations were made within the existing envelope, avoiding costly additions or variances
Investor Benefits
- Maximized building value by converting vacant upper floors into premium residential units
- Prepped the property for full residential conversion in Phase 02, with proper sequencing and approvals
- Added mezzanine square footage without increasing footprint—boosting marketability and rent
- All new units designed with tenant comfort and long-term performance in mind: in-suite laundry, dedicated HVAC, and modern layouts
- Downtown location allows for parking exemption, enhancing ROI without additional site work
Current Status
Phase 01 construction in progress. Phase 02 design drawings completed and ready for submission pending Record of Site Condition.
Adaptive Reuse, Multi-Unit Residential, Mezzanine Units, Commercial, Residential
