The vibrant junction of Bank Street and the Queensway has long served as a testament to the dynamic evolution of Ottawa. In a fitting evolution for a property that has housed everything from a thriving railway station to various commercial enterprises over the years, the building at 555 Bank St. is now home to a new OakWood Design Studio.
Built in the early 1990s by the then-owner of Randall’s Paints, David Martin, the iconic brick building was purposefully designed as a cutting-edge space located in the heart of the city. To complement their offerings as Ottawa’s paint supply and décor specialists, the team at Randall’s chose in 2010 to partner with OakWood, a leader in architectural design, kitchen cabinetry, home renovations, custom homes, and multi-unit income investment properties.
In 2019, John Liptak of the Liptak Group, also owner of OakWood, purchased the 555 Bank St. property as well as the Randall’s business from his long-time friend Lee Martin and family, agreeing to keep the building and sell Randall’s, but keep its presence there.
Between 2022 and 2023, OakWood embarked on a comprehensive design process to upgrade and enhance the building and property as well as renovate the second-floor interior displays. The goal was to modernize the building’s exterior and create another world-class OakWood Design Studio, echoing the success of the award-winning OakWood Design Studio and headquarters building at 865 Taylor Creek Drive in Orleans.
As of 2024, the Liptak family has invested more than $1.7 million on enhancements and upgrades. The building now features updated signage, new awnings, a completely refurbished parking lot, and meticulously landscaped surroundings with cedar fencing and stone walls, all contributing to a fresh and modern appearance.
-
OakWood Bank Studio Interior 1 -
OakWood Bank Studio Interior 2 -
OakWood Bank Studio Interior 3 -
OakWood Bank Studio Interior 4
Inside, the OakWood Design Studio itself exudes a sophisticated Glebe aesthetic with a high-tech edge, featuring mid to high-end kitchen displays, large screens showcasing OakWood’s diverse design and build construction services, and a live high-end Cabico Elmwood kitchen for hosting events. The entire building not only reflects the past but also looks to the future, as this landmark continues to be an integral part of the community’s ongoing narrative. As the Glebe thrives, so too does 555 Bank Street, embodying the spirit of progress and the Glebe’s unique blend of history and contemporary living.
Founded in 1956 by John Liptak Sr., OakWood began as a kitchen cabinet and home renovation company. With roots in German craftsmanship, it grew into custom homes and commercial projects. In 1996, John Liptak Jr. expanded the company into architectural design and investment properties, while establishing complementary businesses.
Today, his daughters, Angela Mallon (CFO) and Patricia Liptak-Satov (COO), lead the Liptak group and are preparing to welcome a fifth generation of family members into the business, to continue the legacy of offering unparalleled services such as those beautifully displayed in OakWood’s Bank Street design studio.
