By SOPHIE RUST, OTTAWA SUN – Published on: June 5, 2015
Now a ghost town of derelict buildings and empty spaces, the Chaudiere area flanking both Ottawa and Gatineau is set to change dramatically with the arrival of the first phase of Zibi. This redevelopment project will become Canada’s first One Planet Community, based on ten simple principles for sustainable living. This six storey condo building by Windmill Developments is the first residential offering in this ambitious sustainable showpiece that will include multiple low, mid and high-rise condominium buildings, local businesses and restaurants, plazas, parks and a hotel . With a commitment to principles such as zero carbon, zero waste and sustainable water, environmental concerns are at the forefront of the development.
A waterfront location, with views over the river to Parliament, Zibi aims to become a vibrant hub in the heart of Gatineau. Rodney Witts, Partner at Windmill Development explained, “Zibi is for those who want to live the urban lifestyle within walking distance to work, restaurants, the riverfront and parks. For first time buyers, people who want to live downtown and empty nesters, Zibi will be a diverse and desirable location.”
With 65 units available for sale now, buyers can choose from 21 floorplans. From the compact ‘Flow’, a 541 sq. ft, $183,900 studio perfect for singles, to the extravagant ‘Visteau’ which offers 3 bedrooms over 1707 sq.ft, this $752,900 model comes with three walk in closets, 2 bathrooms and ample living space. Interiors will be clean and contemporary with hardwood floors and granite countertops as standard.
Amenities will include a fitness centre and a rooftop patio offering spectacular views. Once 30% of the project has been built, Windmill have committed to building a state of the art community centre, ‘Eau Vivre’, which will offer residents and guests to Zibi a swimming pool, gym, spa and sauna as well as community kitchen. There will be no shortage of things to do in the area, as Zibi plans to become a must visit destination. Ground floor commercial units will offer retail businesses, restaurants and coffee shops and Rodney Witts suggested that “Christmas markets and festivals such as the Arboretum festival are already planned for the area.”
Potential buyers will be particularly interested to know that the City of Gatineau has offered a 50% discount on property tax for eight years for new units in dowtown Gatineau, a great incentive to move over the river. Prices on the units reflect the local market and buyers can enjoy greater value for their money when compared to similar spaces in downtown Ottawa. For more information, visit the sales centre at 3 Eddy Street, Gatineau, Monday – Friday 12-6pm and weekends 12-5pm or visit www.zibi.ca.
