Protecting history and heritage

By Chicago Metal Supply.  

Learn how this company balanced functionality with preservation in the renovations of a historic building in Canada. 

Historic renovations are often one of the most difficult challenges for contractors to take on. They require unique and careful balancing of preservation with updating. Chicago Metal Supply is no stranger to these types of projects, having helped with historic renovations all across North America. One such building, the Heritage Hall in Vancouver, Canada, is a great example of the careful and thorough work we perform. 

This iconic building features beautiful architecture, but was in need of some updates. Under the guidance of the City of Vancouver and the Heritage Hall Preservation Society, we are updating the functionality of this structure without losing the aesthetics. Learn more about this project! 

Project specifics 

Heritage Hall is seeing a wide variety of updates, some of them aesthetic and some of them functional. Some of the most prominent updates being made include the following: 

Custom finials: One of our contributions to the project is a set of custom finials. These are made from high-quality copper and are designed to add a new yet classic aesthetic to the hall. 

Slate roofing: Another aspect of the renovation is the replacement of the hall’s slate roofing. This is being supplied by a Canadian company and it should go a long way in returning the building to its peak aesthetic. 

Structural reinforcement: The building will be undergoing several structural reinforcements as well. For instance, the clock tower and roof will be strengthened internally, ensuring that the structure is prepared to stand strong for years to come. 

Masonry work: The building will also receive some new masonry work, helping to improve both its look and its structural integrity. This will assist in improving the exterior of the building, allowing it to retain its traditional aesthetic elements while bringing it firmly into the present time. 

The history of Heritage Hall in Vancouver 

Now used to host weddings, parties and a variety of other events, Vancouver’s Heritage Hall first opened as a post office in 1914. Designed by architect Archibald Campbell Hope, it sits on Main Street in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood. It's one of the most recognizable buildings in the area with a grand structure characterized by its tall steeples and clock tower. In the 1970s, it was used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Following their use of the structure, it went on to be used as an arts venue. 

Original article source: Chicago Metal Supply