St. James Church, at the corner of Oakdale Avenue and Merritt Street, is being redeveloped into a unique condo building that will feature one and two bedroom luxury brick lofts. The historic church provides an antique setting that is blended with modern accents and fixtures for an architectural project that is very new to the Niagara Region.
Many of St. Catharines’ long-standing historic buildings are undergoing redevelopment for both residential and commercial purposes. In the Merritton community, there has been significant success with these projects, including the historic Keg restaurant building and the Stone Mill Inn complex.
About The Project
Quartek Engineers and JPD Architects have partnered to create the design for this building, with the development undertaken by Better Neighbourhoods Planning and GSH Developments.
The St. James Anglican Church has stood at its corner since 1869, having been moved to Merritton from Port Dalhousie. Originally a wood-panel building, the church was rebuilt to its current brick structure after it burned down in an 1892 fire, and it survived a damaging cyclone in 1898. In January of last year, the last service was held and the building was decommissioned, to be redeveloped as the St. James Lofts.
The heritage of the building is not lost with this redevelopment. Each condo unit features one unique fixture from the original church, such as stained glass, light fixtures, or original ironwork. Residents are able to choose which fixture they would like included in their unit.
Property Details
- 15 suites total, each with its own unique floor plan or design
- 500 to 1000 sq ft
- One parking space per unit
- Some units have private balconies available
- Rooftop terrace
- Storage unit or lockers provided
Area Details
The St. James Lofts building is located at the corner of Oakdale Avenue and Merritt Street, in the heart of Merritton. The community has undergone significant residential growth including multiple infill developments within the last decade.
Unique commercial and residential development projects such as the St. James Lofts are popular in this historic area. Investors have had success with a number of large-scale industrial to commercial restoration projects, including the recently completed 12,500 sq. ft. Lybster Mill expansion project.
Merritton is The Latest Step in Booming Niagara Growth
Niagara's growth trajectory has been on the upswing over the past five years including the quaint community of Merritton, and, as one of St. Catharines most historic communities, it’s a positive sign that small can also be greatly appealing to investors and developers alike.
To view other historical restorations click here and to find out what commercial real estate opportunities are available to you in Niagara.
