New event space aspires to be a crown jewel in Owen Sound’s growth strategy If nothing else, Nick Ainis — builder, entrepreneur, author — not afraid of a challenge. As principal of Fusioncorp, he already has several building conversion and expansion projects to his credit. Notable projects he has worked on include the 12-storey Carmelina Condos; The Ed Mirvish Theatre, a 45-storey luxury hotel condo complex; and more recently, a condo/hotel expansion project at the Hotel Beebop at 45 Mutual Rd in Toronto.
He’s co-authored a book called Building Toronto’s Skyline, which traces the city’s humble beginnings to the modern metropolis it is today. But it’s his latest venture that may get the most attention yet, if not for the scale of the restoration effort needed, just the sheer audacity of undertaking such a complicated project. The Royal Rose, as it will be named, will rise out of the former Owen Sound Courthouse and Prison which has sat empty since December 2011.
Two main purposes are planned for the facility. The renovated courthouse will serve as an entertainment and event venue, and will host weddings, concerts, performances, conferences and other community gatherings; and a business incubator to be set up at the site will support startups and entrepreneurs by providing resources, mentorship and collaborative workspaces. According to Ainis, everything will be “five-star,” from valet services, to fine dining, to speakeasy lounges and other luxury features an.