Iconic Ottawa Street Transforms with Benches

Published in Landmark News

on Friday, 21 August 2015

Thomas Steele benches line the streets as part of revitalization project

Hailed as Hamilton’s “destination for inspiration” for its tasty dining options, unique fashion and fabulous finds, Ottawa Street has become a staple in the city; drawing both locals and tourists alike to its eclectic charm.

Historically a fabric district, the iconic street has grown radically over the years and is now home to more than 120 shops, including trendy restaurants and food trucks, farmer’s markets, antique shops, art galleries and more.

The influx of visitor foot traffic prompted a street-wide seating overhaul, led by the Ottawa Street Business Improvement Area (BIA). Landmark by Crozier supplied roughly 75 new Thomas Steele Volare benches for the revamp, which were installed along the street adjacent to local merchant shops.

“We wanted to create more seating on the street to give seniors a place to sit and rest, as well as provide a spot for take-out food customers to eat” said Tony Mark, Administrative Coordinator with the BIA. “I think the increase in benches is going to make a big difference on this street.”

Not even 24 hours after install, shop owners and visitors took to social media to rave about the new benches. Here’s a few reviews posted on the Ottawa Street BIA’s Twitter page:

Local Shop "Kerry’s Party for Less":
Love our new benches on @OttawaSt_BIA

Visitor Myra, who included a photo of her dog relaxing on a bench:
I LOVE new seats along @OttawaSt_BIA! For eating, chatting, or just dog tired.

Installed in several unique seating arrangements, you can find single, double and backless benches placed down the street, some with tables attached (perfect for eating). In addition to its durability, comfort and style, the Ottawa Street BIA selected the Volare bench since it’s made from round steel rod, which ties in with the street’s historic style.

“There’s a big steel culture here, so these steel benches are a nice fit and a real departure from the previous wooden benches,” said Mark, adding, “They make a small footprint since they aren’t big and chunky. It’s a streamlined look.”

” volarebench1

See more of the new benches here.

To ensure longevity, the Thomas Steele benches go through an 18-stage e-Steele finishing process, resulting in a smooth, durable finish that will withstand years of service. Since Thomas Steele manufactures their products in North America with high quality domestic recycled steel, it enables them to offer a 20-year Integrity Warranty.

Mark notes that the addition of the street furniture is only Phase 1 of the street’s ongoing Revitalization Project.

Landmark by Crozier, a division of Crozier Enterprises specializing in high-quality site furnishings and construction castings, is a proud distributor of Thomas Steele products. If you are interested in furniture that is fabricated with care and finished with e-Steele technology, contact your local Landmark by Crozier sales associate at 416.214.7727.