A new residential development is taking shape in Orillia, Ontario, near the intersection of Fittons Road and West Street. This upcoming project will introduce a four-storey apartment building that brings 24 market-value rental units to a property long used as a wholesale storage yard.
Project Details and Design
The building, located at 15 Fittons Rd. W., will be constructed using brick and stone, a design choice that complements the existing architectural character of the surrounding neighborhood. Developed by local business owner John Tselikis, who also owns Theo's Eatery in Orillia, this mid-rise structure will bring needed housing supply to an area already home to three other apartment buildings.
The development will rise to four storeys and feature 24 apartments. While exact bedroom counts have not been confirmed, a comparable building at nearby 11 Fittons Rd. W. houses bachelor, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. Apartments on the second, third, and fourth floors of the new building will feature private balconies.
Architecture and site planning for the project was completed by ISM Architects of Barrie, known for their work on the Vëttä Nordic Spa in Horseshoe Valley. Their design focuses on maintaining a neighborhood-compatible appearance while offering modern amenities.
Construction Features and Access
Main Entrance: The west-facing main entrance will be marked by a canopy and will feature a barrier-free door opener.
Parking: There will be 39 total parking spaces, including at least two accessible spaces. Parking will be located on the west and south sides of the building.
Pedestrian Access: Three sidewalks will provide pedestrian pathways connecting the building to both parking areas and Fittons Road.
Landscaping and Buffers: A two-metre green buffer and privacy fence will be installed along the east property line, which borders another residential building. Green space will also be included on the southern edge of the property.
Site Background and Approval Process
The 0.35-hectare property, previously used as a storage site for Battalia's Wholesale Fruit, sits across the street from Fittons West Plaza and backs onto the Orchard Park Public School property. This strategic location will provide future residents with easy access to commercial amenities and public services.
Orillia Matters reports that the project was initially presented to Orillia city council in December 2023. At that time, the proposal included a five-storey design, which was approved. However, developer John Tselikis later modified the plan to a four-storey structure. Orillia city council lifted a holding provision on the property during its May 26 meeting, clearing the way for the project to proceed.
According to Jill Lewis, the city's senior planner, the development is in the final stages of the site plan agreement. “They are working to get a conditional building permit so they can get going,” said Lewis.
Workforce and Trades Involved
Although a construction start date has not been officially announced, the project will require a range of trades once building commences. These may include:
Excavation and foundation crews
Concrete formers and finishers
Masons for the brick and stone facade
Framers and general carpenters
Electrical and plumbing trades
HVAC installation professionals
Window, door, and glazing specialists
Painters and interior finishers
Landscapers and site utility crews
This mix of skilled labor will be critical to delivering a project that meets both design and safety standards.
Conclusion: A Thoughtful Addition to Orillia's Housing Landscape
The 15 Fittons Rd. W. project represents a well-integrated addition to Orillia’s residential offerings. With modern materials, thoughtful design, and a strategic location, this apartment building is poised to meet growing demand for rental housing. Local trades and professionals will benefit from the project’s construction phase, while future tenants can look forward to a new, well-situated place to call home. As Orillia continues to grow, developments like this help strike a balance between density and neighborhood character, ensuring long-term livability for all.