The Wellington Building
The Wellington Building is a prominent office building in Ottawa’s Parliamentary Precinct. The original Beaux Arts building, recognized by the Federal Heritage Review Office (FHRO), was constructed in 1927 for the Metropolitan Insurance Company and substantially enlarged in 1959. Acquired by the Crown in 1973, the building was completely abated and renovated between 2008 and 2016 to accommodate Parliamentary functions.
As Heritage Conservation Architect to NORR, EVOQ was responsible for the design and quality assurance of heritage components. This included replacing the existing windows and copper roof, restoring the existing masonry envelope, and reinstating the cast steel entrance canopy.
On the interior, previously designated heritage spaces such as the exceptional mosaic-vaulted vestibule, marble-clad lobbies and historic stairs were rehabilitated, with some features restored to their original state.
Design Excellence Award
Ontario Association of Architects (OAA)
Award of Excellence for the restoration of the Wellington Building
City of Ottawa
Interiors Award for Historic Restoration / New Interior
Contract Magazine
Award of Excellence for Conservation: Architecture
Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (CAHP)
Award for Federal Buildings Heritage Conservation Excellence
Real Property Institute of Canada
The Wellington project exemplifies our commitment to sustainable development and heritage preservation. By choosing to retain both the 1927 original building and its 1959 addition, we preserved decades of architectural history while minimizing environmental impact. Our policy of minimal intervention guided the careful dismantling of the original copper roof, whose materials were thoughtfully reintegrated into the renovated building. Strategic upgrades to the building envelope and fenestration, including the installation of thermally efficient windows, improved energy performance without compromising heritage character. Throughout the renovation, our focus on extending the life of historic materials and assemblies - from masonry to metalwork - demonstrates how preservation and sustainability can work in harmony. This thoughtful approach to the Wellington's built legacy illustrates EVOQ's expertise in balancing conservation with modern performance requirements.
Certified Four Green Globes by the Green Building Initiative.
