Ottawa Construction News staff writer
Edmonton, Alberta-based Rohit Group has started construction in Ottawa on what the developers describe as a “a flagship project that will expand the availability of high-quality, purpose-built rentals in the capital region.”
“The Horizons at Crystal Bay will be one of Ottawa’s largest wood-frame residential developments, offering attainable luxury and flexible design, while minimizing environmental impact,” they said in a statement at the project’s groundbreaking last Thursday (Feb. 6).
When work is completed in 2027, there will be twin six-storey rental complexes with 185 units. Seventy-five per cent of the suites will include two-bedroom layouts and one-bedroom suites with a den.
“We need purpose-built rentals to support people with diverse housing options – especially here in Ontario, where the pressure on housing is acute, said Rohit Homes Ottawa vice-president Chris MacKinnon.
“We are well-equipped to boost availability with an ambitious target of more than 900 units in Ottawa by 2029, making a meaningful impact for the city and the residents who live here.”
“Crystal Beach/Crystal Bay are wonderful and unique neighbourhoods, and this development will expand the variety of accommodation options in the area,” said Councillor Theresa Kavanagh, who represents the City of Ottawa’s Bay ward. “This is good news for DND employees who work at the Moodie campus.”\
Designed to surpass the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings by more than 40 per cent, The Horizons at Crystal Bay will be constructed with sustainable wood-frame materials that retain carbon capture properties and function as natural insulators, the developer’s statement says. Taller, wood-frame construction is a growing movement in residential developments – desired for its reduced environmental impact throughout the building cycle and smaller carbon-footprint compared to steel, glass and concrete builds, the developers say.
The development also offers 24 underground EV charging stations, LED lighting, and high-efficiency appliances.
“We’ve purposefully elevated the exterior design of The Horizons using a bold variation of brick masonry, fibre-cement siding and recessed balconies, along with articulations and step-backs,” said Akash Sinha, director of acquisitions and development for Rohit Group. “These features will enhance the façade and establish The Horizons as a landmark address in the community.”
“We truly look forward to developing a great place for people to call home and contributing to the beauty that is the Crystal Beach area.”
The development will also offer premium amenities like a rooftop patio and fully equipped fitness centre, along with spectacular views of the Ottawa River, the Gatineau Park and downtown from select upper-level units.
Housing starts, which includes apartments, townhomes and single-family homes, have been declining in Ottawa for nearly three years. In fact, Ottawa began construction on just 7,894 homes last year – far below target and the lowest number of housing starts in five years.
“Expanding our footprint in the Ottawa market with The Horizons at Crystal Bay marks a significant milestone for Rohit Group” said Adil Kodian, executive vice-president of Rohit Homes. “By delivering purpose-built rentals with attainable luxury, we’re meeting the dual challenge of affordability and availability with bold, impactful solutions.”
Rohit Group says it looks forward to announcing other residential projects in the Ottawa region later this year.
