Historical Rehabilitation
Project Overview
Preserving a Century of History Through Craftsmanship and Precision
Whitson carefully restored the Alberta Culture Building, formerly St. Stephen’s College, a site of the highest historic significance for the province’s higher education heritage. The project required meticulous planning and hands-on craftsmanship as well as tight management of limited work areas within a high traffic location on the University of Alberta’s campus.
Scope of work included replacing windows, refinishing historic windows, and repairing the exterior masonry in accordance with the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada. Each window was custom-made to historical specifications and installed by Whitson’s skilled trades, with detailed documentation and coordination to meet strict timelines. Brick restoration was handled with equal care, with new masonry carefully color-matched and blended to preserve the building’s original character.
The project demonstrates the delicate balance of preserving history while ensuring long-term durability, completed safely, within budget, and to the high standard required for a landmark heritage site.
