Why Small Businesses Are Thriving in Mixed-Use Developments
Small businesses play a vital role in our community, offering local options and contributing to the economy. With the rise of mixed-use developments, these shops, gyms, restaurants, cafes and more have more room to shine. Mixed-use developments create an essential ecosystem for small businesses by combining residential, retail, and commercial uses. Entrepreneurs seeking to grow within walkable, community-centric settings are drawn to mixed-use developments, which are quickly becoming the ideal choice for small businesses.
What is a Mixed-Use Development?
A mixed-use development refers to an apartment building that also features commercial space, typically located on the ground floor. This could be a bakery, a pet shop or a convenience store, among many other options.
The Rise of Mixed-Use Commercial Spaces
Cities like Ottawa are investing heavily in these spaces to mitigate urban sprawl and establish cohesive communities. Mixed-use buildings can easily bundle living spaces and amenities, benefiting land planning as they help preserve nearby ecosystems and natural resources. These also promote walkability and public transportation by offering a range of amenities nearby.
The Main Street Model
These buildings highlight a “main street” model, where establishing buildings like these on an already popular street or location adds further value to that location. People can spend more time enjoying the simple pleasures of life, such as eating out with friends or walking their pets, rather than driving through traffic or searching for parking, thereby improving both their quality of life and sustainability.
Built-In Visibility and Foot Traffic
Small businesses can benefit from mixed-use commercial spaces not solely because they are located near residences, but also because they may have a regular stream of customers.
Constant foot traffic from these residential tenants increases brand visibility without requiring a large marketing budget. Due to the business’s proximity to a tenant’s residence, they are more likely to visit at least once. If they enjoy the service or goods, they are likely to recommend them to their friends or family who may visit. Word-of-mouth and local engagement become easier when surrounded by a built-in customer base.
CLV Group’s office-to-residential conversions, like 360 Laurier, balance housing for tenants and economic development for small businesses. Benefiting consumers and business owners, no more long commutes for a bite to eat or essentials to buy, and no more isolated storefronts and difficulty breaking out into the market.
Community-Focused Infrastructure
Along with the advantages to small businesses, mixed-use developments may also feature various amenities for residents, including:
- Gyms
- Swimming pools
- Rooftop patios
- Pet washing stations
- Co-working spaces
Business owners benefit from being part of a community where events, services, and shared spaces can support collaboration.
A Launchpad for Local Growth
Commercial mixed-use properties are more than real estate; they offer scalable spaces, perfect for businesses starting small but planning to grow. With flexible lease options and on-site property management to simplify early operations, small businesses can establish a strong foundation in Ottawa’s most connected and supportive communities. Local commercial tenants are facing less pressure from national chains, allowing them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, making mixed-use developments the best way forward.
View our available CLV Group apartments today and find your dream community.
