Orillia businesses’ destroyed in historic January fire receive second chance at life

In January, a fire tore through a century-old building on Peter Street in downtown Orillia, causing weeks of havoc and forcing several small businesses to shut down.

The historic winter fire, brought a wave of uncertainty to those who had built their livelihoods within those very walls. Damage to the building was estimated at $4 million.

On Jan. 22, a day after the fire, police arrested Brandon Costa and charged him with arson and disregard for human life. Police say an intentionally set fire spread through the building at 7 Peter Street, south.

Months after the flames ripped through the landmark, several of the impacted businesses are getting a second chance at life.

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Dr. Comics Dr. Comics in Orillia. (CTV News/ Mike Arsalides)

Melted Sugaring Loft

Melted Sugaring Loft was previously located at 5 Peter Street, Unit 203. After losing the space in the fire on January 21, owner Madison wasted no time jumping back on her feet. With support from her community, she reopened inside Volonte Spa located at 9 Front Street South unit 2 in Orillia, on February 12.

“Everyone rallied together in such a great time of need and really helped make this possible,” she shared.

Orillia fire A historic building in Orillia, Ont., is demolished on Fri., Jan. 31, 2025, after a destructive fire. (CTV News/Mike Arsalides)

GJ Thomson Photography

GJ Thomson Photography, once located at 73 Mississaga Street, had recently reopened in a new studio above the Meridian Credit Union. Unfortunately, the damage following the demolition of the neighbouring building at 5 Peter Street, forced that building to begin demolition too.

Owner Thompson remains optimistic, sharing on social media in March that a new local studio will be opening soon.

Peter Street South fire A historic building at 7 Peter Street South in Orillia, Ont., is destroyed by fire on Jan. 21, 2025. (City of orillia)

Three Birds Salon

Three Birds Salon, previously operating out of 7 Peter Street, south, has relocated and is now welcoming clients at 37 West Street.

After announcing the move on February 10, the team thanked the community for their help, “Without our community by our side we surely wouldn’t have been able to open a new location so quickly.” The team is getting ready to announce the grand reopening date in the near future. “We are getting ready to announce the grand reopening date so stay tuned,” the salon shared.

Three Birds Salon Three Birds Salon is now welcoming clients at their new location on 37 West Street, south, Orillia. (Supplied)

Kelly’s Clothing

Kelly’s Clothing, formerly at 75 Mississaga Street, east, is also opening a new chapter. On March 13, longtime owner Kelly announced her retirement after nearly three decades in business. “I have no doubt that Sara [the woman taking over the business] will do an amazing job,” Kelly said. The boutique will continue under a similar name, as the new sign just reached completion on April 10.

Kelly's Klothing Kelly's Klothing by Sara opens new location at 21 Matchedash St. S., Unit 108. (Supplied)

Dr. Comics

Dr. Comics, previously located at 79 Mississaga Street, east, is also on the path to revival. On April 10, the shop revealed their new signage at their location in the Orillia Square Mall. “We can’t wait to get this place open!” the team shared. If you are looking to purchase a new book, you can head to 1029 Brodie Drive, Orillia. The group has planned a reopening date but it has not yet been revealed.

Several Orillia shops destroyed in historic fire receive new chance at life

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