Mixed Use Residential & Commercial Building For Sale in Old Ottawa East

Mixed Use Residential & Commercial Building For Sale in Old Ottawa East

178 Main Street is a rare find in Old Ottawa East, offering a mix of residential comfort and commercial presence in one thoughtfully designed, custom-built property. Constructed in 2016/17 with a later addition in 2021/22, this is a modern, purpose-built mixed use building that balances lifestyle and income potential in one of the city’s most consistently in-demand neighbourhoods.

Flexible Multi-Unit Living

The building is divided into three fully self-contained spaces, each with independent systems and thoughtful separation. Unit A is a ground-floor commercial space currently home to Vespa Wine Bar, offering excellent visibility and steady foot traffic along Main Street. Unit B is a spacious, two-level, three-bedroom residence designed for comfortable, upscale living, while Unit C is a bright one-bedroom apartment with its own private entrance.

All three units have been rented in the past, giving a clear picture of the income potential. At present, Unit B is owner-occupied and Unit C is vacant, allowing flexibility for an end-user or investor. Each unit also benefits from dedicated exterior insulated storage and wired for AC in well-built outbuildings, along with additional bike and utility storage.

The Primary Retreat (Unit B)

Spanning approximately 2,805 square feet across two levels, Unit B is the heart of the home and has been designed with both everyday living and entertaining in mind. The main floor offers a seamless flow between two distinct living areas, anchored by a central kitchen that feels both functional and elevated. A large island creates a natural gathering point, complemented by quality appliances including a Samsung fridge, dual-function Samsung microwave oven, KitchenAid natural gas range, and Bosch SilencePlus dishwasher.

Just beyond, the main living room makes a strong impression with soaring ceilings that rise over 20 feet, anchored by a natural gas fireplace that adds warmth and scale to the space. Large openings connect the indoors to a truly standout feature of the home: a private, west-facing cedar terrace. Thoughtfully constructed with full cedar framing and decking, this outdoor space is set up for both quiet evenings and hosting, complete with a 16x15 retractable awning, outdoor kitchen, bar setup, hot tub, and multiple cooking options including a Big Green Egg and a Weber propane BBQ.

Upstairs, the home continues to impress with an airy layout that opens to the level below, allowing light to move freely throughout the space. The primary suite feels like a true retreat, featuring a generous walk-in closet, a spa-inspired ensuite with in-floor heating, and direct access to a private balcony. The two additional bedrooms are both well-sized and practical, one with its own walk-in closet and the other with a large double closet, making them ideal for family, guests, or a home office setup.

Throughout Unit B, attention to detail is evident. Wide-plank white ash engineered hardwood, porcelain and ceramic tile, and in-floor heating in key areas bring both durability and comfort. Triple-glazed, high-efficiency aluminum windows and doors, along with transoms that carry light between spaces, enhance both energy performance and the overall feel of the home. Hot water is on constant circulation, so everything works exactly as it should, when it should. This is a space that feels custom, because it is.

Separate 1-Bedroom Apartment (Unit C)

This bright and modern apartment offers a lifestyle that blends comfort, style, and convenience. The open-concept layout is filled with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere whether you’re relaxing by the cozy gas fireplace, hosting in the sleek kitchen, or unwinding on your private deck.

Thoughtfully designed, the space features a bedroom with a built-in closet and an adjacent den that works perfectly as a home office. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, generous counter space, and a peninsula for casual dining, while in-floor heating in both the kitchen and bathroom adds an extra layer of comfort. A wall-mounted heat pump (installed in 2023) provides efficient year-round climate control alongside the gas fireplace.

Additional features include in-unit laundry, quality finishes throughout, and a secure 5x8-foot storage room in the rear shed, along with dedicated waste and storage structures. It’s a clean, move-in-ready space that feels both modern and functional.

Prime Commercial Space (Unit A)

Currently occupied by Vespa Wine Bar, a strong, vibrant business in Old Ottawa East, the ground-floor commercial unit is built to accommodate a variety of uses, from retail and restaurant to professional services. It features high ceilings, a garage-style front opening, and a patio presence right on Main Street.

There’s also a lower level with plumbing rough-ins already in place for potential future washrooms, along with separate HVAC systems (York, installed at construction) and utilities. Significant soundproofing measures have been implemented, including enhanced ceiling assemblies and a solid stone separation wall, ensuring minimal transfer between commercial and residential spaces. The current tenant has completed all fit-ups, which may be removed or negotiated depending on the lease terms.

Built for Comfort and Long-Term Value

Behind the scenes, the property reflects careful planning and quality construction. The structure sits on a reinforced concrete foundation, partial structural steel framing, with durable exterior finishes that combine Hardie board, metal wood-look siding, and stone masonry. The roof is a torch-on low-slope system installed at the time of construction.

Heating and cooling are handled through a mix of high-efficiency systems: central forced air (Keeprite for Unit B, York for Unit A), natural gas heating, and a heat pump for Unit C. Both residential units feature hot water on constant circulation for immediate use. Ceiling heights range from 9 to 12 feet, enhancing the sense of space across all units.

Utilities are straightforward, with 2025 costs averaging approximately $310/month for hydro (Units B & C plus common), $162/month for natural gas, and $198/month for water and sewage across all units. Property taxes for 2025 are $6,416.18 (commercial) and $12,818.34 (residential).

Parking is handled through private off-site arrangements, with additional three-hour unmetered street parking available nearby.

The Neighbourhood | Old Ottawa East

Old Ottawa East is one of those neighbourhoods that quietly offers everything. From the front of 178 Main Street, you’re looking directly toward the tree-lined stretch at Grande Allée Park where the local farmers’ market sets up, bringing a sense of rhythm and community right to your doorstep. It’s a space that feels alive in the best way, surrounded by greenery and anchored by the charm that defines this part of the city.

You’re steps from the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, with pathways, parks, and scenic routes that make it easy to stay active or slow things down when you want to. The area is known for its walkability, its mix of independent businesses, and its close connection to downtown, the Glebe, and Lansdowne. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, heading out for dinner, or just enjoying the surroundings, everything feels close and accessible.

It’s a neighbourhood that continues to grow in popularity for good reason. Established, connected, and full of character, Old Ottawa East offers a lifestyle that’s hard to replicate, and properties like this rarely come up.