Re-purpose, giving heritage new life
In a recent article in RETROactive, an Alberta government heritage publication, it was noted that refurbishing heritage buildings is a way to preserve them. To re-purpose, i.e. find a new use, is an easy alternative to trying endlessly to reuse a building for its original purpose.
We have many successful examples of this already in our downtown area. Hardware stores have become banks (HSBC), sewing supplies shops have become coffee houses (Station), and furniture stores are now events establishments (Beveridge).
There is a principle in conservation practice that one should first preserve, second repair and if renovations are required, they should be “distinguishable” from the original fabric. In other words, don’t try to re-create what was once there to the point of fooling the observer into thinking it is original.
One of the most recent buildings to be re-purposed is 612 Third St. SE. Originally constructed as part of the Woolworth’s building, in the early 1940s it was Sterling Sports store. Around 1950, it became Sterling’s Tog Shop, a clothing store. Later, in 1955, it became Gardyne Shoes, followed by The Lucky Squid, a tattoo parlour.
Now, the building at 612 has become a micro-brewery. Travois Ale Works has re-purposed the structure after more than a year of extensive renovations. The dropped ceiling was removed, giving a much more spacious and open concept. The walls were stripped exposing the locally-manufactured red brick. A mezzanine was constructed above the tall entrance area with a grand staircase. Replacement windows at the front of the building produce a new vibrant store front. The rear of the building houses the vats for brewing beer.
The building has had all of the mechanical and electrical equipment replaced as well as a new roof. Wooden floors were resurfaced and washrooms for the patrons installed. The basement was renovated and any structural issues repaired. It looks and feels like a new occupancy but retains its character and charm. Most important, the heritage has been retained although not artificially re-created to its original appearance.
By refurbishing this building, it will be able to stand the test of time for many years to come and will continue to be part of our downtown heritage.
Many cities are promoting the repurposing of heritage buildings to help with the preservation of our history. After all, a building a century old is young by comparison to European cities, where “recent” buildings are many centuries older. In the on-going effort to rejuvenate our downtown core, charming heritage buildings prove to be a key attraction with their ambience that cannot be duplicated in new buildings. Cheers!
Malcolm Sissons is chair of the Heritage Resources Committee. This column was researched and composed by committee member Wayne Lust.