Introduction
From textiles to food trucks, Crown Point East has been reborn as a made-in-Hamilton community intent on autonomy and originality. It embraces Ottawa Street, the garment district, which offers dozens of textile and accessory shops and home improvement entities. Sew Hungry, a caravan of food trucks, has entered the mix that appeals to foodies and contributes to the thriving retail environment.
Lifestyle
Crown Point East is a close-knit community where neighbours are close at hand and served by schools, rec centres, but unfortunately, limited greenspace. With the Ottawa shopping district in its midst and a year-round, outdoor farmer’s market, locals walk to and fro. The retail and specialized nature of this area draws in do-it-yourselfers and designers alike. Renovations are high on the list of those moving into this area.
The Vibe
Do-it-yourselfers, designers and seamstresses have long been regulars on Ottawa Street. What still holds true is the high number of European sewers who were the original customer base. For decades, it’s been the go-to place for hobbyists, stage and film pros and those in need of costumes for various occasions. With an influx of furniture and antique shops, the street has undergone its own redux.
Meet the Neighbours
Affordable Crown Point is a prime location for first-time buyers and young families along with an artistic crowd wanting to stay close to retail sources. As this is the most affordable real estate in the city, the income level is below the median as homebuyers try to gain a foothold in the market. Nearby condo buildings are ideal for seniors and singles looking for ownership on a smaller budget.
In the Area
Cultural centres and retail shops and services line Barton Street leading up to the refurbished and rebuilt Centre Mall with anchor stores such as Canadian Tire, Walmart, Metro and Michaels rising above other well-known chains. Neighbouring mom and pop shops and independents stand toe-to-toe with the big box stores. The YMCA, complete with a pool, offers family-focused programming and there’s also the Kiwanis Boys’ & Girls Club.
6 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) has frequent routes throughout the area that is divided by six main thoroughfares. There is also the DARTS service for those who require accessible transportation. Crown Point is only a few minutes from accesses up the escarpment via Kenilworth Avenue, as well as to the Red Hill Creek Parkway linking it to the QEW.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
For decades, Centre Mall drew locals inside through the winter for daily walks and socializing, but with the redux, outdoor access to shops and services has eliminated the neighbourly sensibility. The mall has never been a threat to the Ottawa Street independents that have created a destination and their own vitality. Residential and commercial rental rates are rising.
Dollars & Sense
Affordability and variety are equal partners in Crown Point – bargain fabrics to imported silks can be found in the Ottawa Street shops, while "let’s make a deal" is a negotiation often played out in the antique shops. Housing here is the most affordable in the city, bidding wars are common to the chagrin of those that can’t afford much more, as wages aren’t rising in time with home prices.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Millionaire's Daughter
The Millionaire’s Daughter is a priceless find for buyers and sellers. Two floors of showrooms showcase all things decor-oriented in this popular consignment shop.
more infoBell Arte Camera
Long before digital selfies, Bell Arte Camera was a family-operated photo studio that morphed into retail. The family still runs the show and has the latest and greatest, and can probably dig up some film if you’re in a jam.
more infoTim Horton's
Ottawa Street lays claim to the first location of this coffee shop dynasty. Recently refurbished, a second floor takes you on a walk down memory lane through a museum for this coffee chain giant.
more infoAllSorts Gallery
When only new and handcrafted will do, All Sorts Gallery is the place. The works of artisans of all persuasions fill the shelves in this artist co-op.
more infoAntique Avenue
Just go down the stairs and you’ll discover Ontario’s largest collection of collectibles, antiques and vintage from last century or more recent, plus more than 100,000 rental items. Keep looking; they must have something you need.
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