A Southampton landmark reimagined

southampton factory 4

With the Southampton Market that currently occupies the main and second floor staying intact, construction on high end office space planned for the currently unused third floor is expected to begin this month. Southampton Factory image

by Samantha Trumbley for Saugeen Shores Hub

Owner of the Southampton Factory building, Dhruv Sheth, has announced that he is turning the currently unused, vacant third floor into high end office space. “I envision a creative centre, a true mixed-use building and a community hub," said Sheth in a recent interview, adding that Saugeen Shores has seen a recent demand for high-end office space. "I am creating such a space to invite innovative companies but also provide shared office spaces for members of the community," he said.

In January Sheth launched southamptonfactory.com showcasing concept drawings of the "landmark reimagined."

The Southampton Factory was built in 1901 as a furniture factory and through the years has changed hands and uses. The main and second floor of the building currently houses the Southampton Market, the operation of which Sheth said will not be affected by the project.

Southampton has always had a special place in Sheth's heart. "My family’s story started here over 30 years ago when my father, Joe Sheth, along with Dave Ziegler, established the Southampton Flour Mill. During their burgeoning years they had bought the Southampton Factory building as a space to mill specialty flour," he explained.

"Our family lived in the town up until I was 5 when a car accident sent us closer to Toronto. The business continued to operate and I remember visiting the town frequently with my dad," he continued. "We created fond memories on the beach and to this date, the delicious butter tarts from the bakery put a smile on my face."

Sheth said the factory project will be completed in phases and consists of bringing the entire building up to current building codes and adding approximately 25,000 square feet for offices on the third floor. Nearly half what will be available office space is already spoken for. The project will preserve the unique architectural features of the historic building. "I wish to restore and preserve as much of existing architecture as possible while adding modern elements to carry the building into this century," said Sheth.

A phase recently added to the plans is one of shared co-work office space with plans to dedicate approximately 2,000 square feet to smaller companies, individuals or co-op students who can rent a desk and have access to a communal board room, printers and reception. The exact size and amenities will depend on the amount of interest received. Individuals can register for the shared office space at southamptonfactory.com.

Construction on the project is expected to begin this month with tentative occupancy in the late fall of 2019. The shared office space is expected to be completed in February 2020.

southampton market