Waterfront living never felt so right

Waterfront living never felt so right

Cornwall’s waterfront was once the beating heart of our local economy, with large-scale industries that employed thousands of people and put food on the table for hundreds of families.

The likes of Thomas Edison first employed industrial light bulbs in what is now known as the Weave Shed, allowing production to run on three shifts a day and greatly expand the commercial landscape.

It’s people and heritage that RMP Construction has embraced as it takes liberal doses of Cornwall’s history and heritage and turns it into a new development  – Cotton Mill Cornwall – that will once again make the Seaway City’s waterfront a focal point in the city.

Not only have the architecture and vistas of the past been acknowledged with projects at the Weave Shed, Edison Building and the soon to be completed Bell Tower – it has become the basis for reconstruction and remodeling of what was once an industrial centre into a residential community within a community.

“We don’t build like this today. And so you’re stepping back in time,” said Bob Pelda, president of RMP Construction. “Really we’re only custodians of time. In other words, we’re here for a short little while to ensure that we’re doing what we feel is the right thing with a heritage building or historical building.

“We trust that future generations will appreciate what we have done.”

The future, though, is very much now at Cotton Mill Cornwall.

It’s three-phase development project has turned the Weave Shed into a commercial/residential hub, with offices created for professionals in one sector, while loft-style living is being created elsewhere.

And the word is out.

While some availability remains, already the likes of a retired Supreme Court justice, an ambassador and a host of business professionals have signed on to take ownership of the loft-style condos.

With incredible views of the majestic St. Lawrence River, private balconies and backyards, units are going quickly.

Over at the Edison Building, which will be separated from the Weave Shed by an open-air concourse, some 34 units are being built, ranging in size from 900 to nearly 1,800 square feet.

A sixth-floor sky deck is being constructed that will offer views of the Adirondack Mountains in the U.S., not to mention underground heated parking with access to a car wash bay.

Just a small number of penthouse-style units are left, as demand for the Edison Building is only outpaced by the majesty of the views it has created.

“It’s a good price, and it’s good view. Where can you get a 1,500 square-foot loft for $300,000? Not even in Toronto or Montreal,” said Pelda. “It’s more than just a place to live, it’s stepping back and saying ‘Not only have my footsteps been on this particular location, but many people prior to me.’ There’s lots of history and heritage that makes people feel important – that they have something special.”

Special, indeed.

RMP Construction marketing and sales manager Derek Scott (613-331-0752) to book a viewing or to get more information) said new residents at the project are blown away.

“Their jaw dropped,” he said. “Some of the ladies began to cry. It was above and beyond their expectations. They can’t believe how the brick and the windows, the light and heritage how it all comes together.”

The newest addition to the waterfront project will be the Bell Tower, a brand new building that will offer commanding views of the waterfront from nearly every perspective.

More than 60 per cent of the building has been reserved, and when that number reaches 75 per cent shovels will enter the ground to begin an 18-month build.

Some 60 units are being planned for the Bell Tower, which like the balance of the buildings in the Cotton Mill Project, will offer a small mix of commercial space.

RMP Construction has followed the mantra that building clean, and building fun, must be a priority.

“When we come to work, it’s fun,” said Pelda. “Why do we look for waterfront and challenging properties? It’s fun. It makes our work interesting.”

And being solid stewards of the environment leaves a legacy by virtue of the construction efforts that make units cost-effective to maintain moving forward.

“We stand behind our convictions and our thoughts,” Pelda added. “When it comes to building green and changing the environment, and protecting the environment, we find these as today’s challenges and we enjoy hearing people say ‘I didn’t turn my heat on all year.’

“That to me, says you have really achieved environmental friendliness.”

Cotton Mills Cornwall is looking to the past to help solidify our future. It’s a bright future, indeed.

A community within a community 

Some amenities that will be permanent fixtures at Cotton Mills Cornwall include the Historic Sluice Gate Water Fountain and fire pit which are surrounded by numerous walkways, bordered by a cut canal stone and raised gardens. The walkways interconnect with the waterfront bicycle and walking paths and the surrounding community.

State of the art community centre with indoor pool and ice pads within walking distance.

Public Tennis and basketball courts across Cotton Mill St.

4000 sq ft fitness facility focused on aerobics and yoga classes.

Professional offices including a doctor’s office and pharmacy on campus.

Arts & Crafts room, card room, celebration room, and secure climate controlled wine cellar.

Nicely appointed building entrance with premium finishes in common areas and corridors.

Sprinklers throughout the building for your protection.

Heated indoor parking stall included with each unit.

Private secure storage included with each unit.

All units have a waterfront view.

Ample surface and visitor parking.

Guest suites.

Demonstration Kitchen.

Elevator access to all levels.

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