Ottawa is set to undertake extensive restoration work on the historic Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park. The project, approved by the Ottawa Committee, focuses on preserving and rejuvenating this iconic structure. For workers in the construction field, this project offers an opportunity to engage in a significant historical restoration.
The cost of the project is still unknown, but the city says the work is expected to begin in January 2025 and will take about two years to complete. An updated project budget will be brought forward for consideration during the City's budget process in the fall of 2024. Here’s a detailed look at the construction and design plans.
Project Overview
Key Details
- Location: Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, Ottawa
- Scope: Extensive restoration and rehabilitation
- Funding: Approved by the Ottawa Committee
- Completion Timeline: Multi-year project
Restoration Phases and Key Features
Structural Stabilization
Key Activities:
- Foundation Repairs: Strengthening the foundation to ensure long-term stability.
- Steel Reinforcement: Adding steel supports to fortify the existing structure.
- Roof and Load-Bearing Wall Reinforcement: Ensuring the structural integrity of load-bearing elements.
Exterior Restoration
Key Activities:
- Roof Replacement: Installing a new roof while preserving the historic appearance.
- Brickwork Repairs: Restoring damaged bricks and repointing mortar joints.
- Window Restoration: Refurbishing original windows to maintain historical accuracy.
Interior Rehabilitation
Key Activities:
- Flooring Upgrades: Replacing worn-out floors with materials that match the historical design.
- Electrical Systems: Upgrading electrical systems to meet modern standards.
- Plumbing and HVAC: Installing new plumbing and HVAC systems for improved efficiency.
"The heritage permit that we have that will be before the heritage committee will be dealing with improvements to the roof, improvements to the doors, improvements to the windows, the roof leaking. With most heritage properties that were built in the previous century, it's going to require specialists. It might require special labor, it might require special material. And so it's important for us to make this type of investment because it is a generational asset for the city of Ottawa and it deserves preservation."
Built Heritage Committee Chair | Counsellor Rawlson King
Preservation of Historic Elements
Key Activities:
- Restoration of Decorative Elements: Preserving and restoring decorative features such as moldings and cornices.
- Historic Paint Colors: Repainting interiors and exteriors with historically accurate colors.
- Artifact Preservation: Ensuring the preservation of any historical artifacts found during restoration.
Long-Term Benefits
Ottawa CTV News reports that the project will enhance the pavilion's infrastructure, supporting community engagement and tourism by attracting visitors interested in historical sites and providing a renovated space for community events and activities.
Project Specifics and Design Elements
Foundation and Structural Work
- Reinforcement of Foundations: Strengthening existing foundations to ensure the pavilion's stability.
- Steel Support Installation: Adding modern steel supports to enhance structural integrity.
Exterior Enhancements
- Roof Replacement: Installing a new, historically accurate roof to protect the structure.
- Brickwork and Masonry: Carefully restoring and repairing brickwork to match the original design.
Interior Improvements
- Flooring: Upgrading the pavilion's flooring with materials that respect the historical context.
- Modern Systems Integration: Updating electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to improve functionality.
Preservation of Historic Details
- Restoration of Ornamental Features: Preserving and restoring ornamental details to reflect the original design.
- Accurate Repainting: Using historically accurate paint colors to maintain the pavilion's authentic look.
The extensive restoration of Ottawa's historic Aberdeen Pavilion at Lansdowne Park is a project that combines modern construction techniques with a deep respect for historical preservation. For construction workers, this project offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in historic restoration while contributing to the preservation of a significant cultural landmark.
