The project entailed renovating the historically designated 1878, Old St. Andrew’s Church to support the contemporary needs of a dynamic worshipping community while protecting and enhancing the building’s defining heritage elements. Design work began in early 2016 and construction was completed by November 2017.
New systems including heating, air-conditioning, AV, and lighting, were discreetly integrated within the existing historic fabric. A new elevator shaft and other barrier free measures were also seamlessly introduced. The existing low-ceiling basement was underpinned by almost a metre in order to accommodate required additional church offices and children’s ministry spaces without having to negatively impact the existing historic building envelope. The above grade interior spaces were re-organized to support community functions and events, create a more welcoming entrance area, improve circulation, and adapt to the owner’s contemporary worship requirements. The restoration and conservation of original historic interior spatial volumes and finishes was fundamental to achieving client objectives.