Commonwealth_ The housing market in northeastern Ontario is witnessing a transformation, particularly in Greater Sudbury, where developers are converting old spaces into modern residential units. One notable project is the redevelopment of the former St. Bernadette school in New Sudbury. Despite the current state of the building, with a dirt trench running down the hallway and exposed wires and pipes hanging from the ceiling, the site is on its way to becoming a vibrant residential community.
Peter Nault, a developer and owner of Northern Home Builders, is leading the conversion of the old school into 20 rental units. Slab-on-grade construction, a design choice increasingly popular among seniors, designates these units without a basement. The project doesn’t end there. Once the school building is completed, new construction will begin in the former schoolyard, adding 27 more slab-on-grade units. Each of these units will have separate first- and second-storey apartments, bringing the total number of residences on the property to 74.
This ambitious project will significantly expand Nault’s portfolio, pushing the number of his rental units in Greater Sudbury to around 300. The slab-on-grade design appeals particularly to older adults looking to downsize. These homes offer the convenience of single-level living with two bedrooms, outdoor space, and storage areas. This design suits seniors who wish to retain some of their belongings without compromising on accessibility and comfort. The demand for such housing options is evident, as there is already a waiting list for these units, with many seniors inquiring about future availability.
While the project meets a growing demand, Nault remains cautious about the broader economic landscape. The potential imposition of tariffs by the United States could raise the cost of construction materials and, in turn, increase the cost of living. For developers like Nault, such an increase adds a layer of financial risk, as the success of the project hinges on the units being affordable enough to attract tenants. If costs rise too high, it could create a gap between the units’ prices and what potential renters are willing or able to pay.
Belmar Builders, another Sudbury-based developer, has also embraced slab-on-grade construction. The company has been building several duplexes with crawl spaces in Hanmer each year, with prices ranging from $500,000 to $550,000. Additionally, Belmar Builders continues to construct single-family homes in Sudbury proper, including a property in the city’s south end listed at $898,000.
The shift towards slab-on-grade housing reflects a broader trend in the local housing market. As the population ages, there is a growing preference for homes that offer both practicality and comfort. Developers are responding by designing residences that cater to the needs of seniors, combining modern construction techniques with functional layouts.
Despite economic uncertainties, projects like the St. Bernadette school redevelopment highlight the ongoing efforts to address housing demands in northeastern Ontario. The addition of these new units will not only provide more options for those seeking rental properties but also contribute to the overall growth and modernization of Sudbury’s residential landscape. As developers navigate market challenges, the focus remains on creating accessible, high-quality housing that meets the evolving needs of the community.
