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Ensuring a Historic and Cultural Treasure will Remain for Coming Generations to Use and Enjoy
To comply with current building codes, which place great emphasis on the safety and security of a building’s users, major renovations are required for Ralph Connor House. Chief among these are a sprinkler system and construction of a new fire exit stair to serve all levels. At the same time as this work is being done, the complete electrical system will be replaced, and the fire alarm system and emergency lighting will be upgraded.
Extensive interior restoration will be required after these safety improvements are made.
Ensuring Safety and Security
Safety and related upgrades include:
Improving and Extending Accessibility for Everyone
Making the House more accessible is a main focus of the renovations. Installation of a permanent exterior ramp (replacing the present temporary ramp) to the sunroom is essential to provide access to the main floor. Inside, an elevator will be installed to serve three levels, and washrooms will be renovated to accommodate wheelchairs.
Accessibility improvements include:
Ensuring Building Stability and Drainage
Although the building structure is sound, drainage around the foundation is failing and causes basement leaking. Plans call for excavating around the perimeter of the foundation to replace the weeping tile and basement drainage system.
Amenities to Enhance Comfort and Use While Undertaking Important Restoration Work to Maintain Historic Authenticity
The building can become uncomfortable in hot weather, which its use and revenue-generating potential in summer. An energy-efficient air conditioning system is planned as part of the upgrade to regulate the temperature and to improve air quality.
Refinishing the hardwood floors and restoring some of the woodwork will enhance the impressive historic elements of Ralph Connor House. The distinctive gateposts at the entrance of the driveway that welcome guests to the property will also be restored.
A summary of these upgrades and restoration include:
Environmental Responsibility
All construction work planned for Ralph Connor House will be designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible. The construction plans will be measured against the international LEED® system for “green” building design, and will achieve as many LEED points as are possible for this project.
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