Heritage Week 2021

Architectural Conservancy Ontario – London Region
&
Heritage London Foundation

are proud to present the 14th annual London Heritage Awards

Congratulations to the 2021 honourees!

During a cold and snowy Heritage Week in February, the 14th annual London Heritage Awards were presented to the honourees in person. For the first time ever, we have filmed the presentations, and we are delighted to be able to share this video with you that not only reveals the recipients, but also tells you a bit about the projects that were honoured.

We wish to thank Adrian D’Alessandro, videographer, for filming and editing the video for us and Maggie Whalley for providing the voiceover. Thanks also to Councillor Stephen Turner, ACO President Kelley McKeating, and HLF President Michael Wojtak for presenting the awards.

Small-Scale Restoration Project #1

The recipient for the award for the Small-Scale Restoration Project is Vicky Lightfoot. Lightfoot is being honoured for her efforts in restoring a decorative bargeboard on the gable of yellow brick residence from 1874, ultimately enhancing and preserving the heritage character of the home in the Blackfriars and Petersville heritage district. This award was presented by Michael Wojtak (HLF president) on Tuesday, February 16th.

Small-Scale Restoration Project #2

Another Small-Scale Restoration Project award is being presented to the owner of 360 St. James Street for the restoration of decorative detail on their verandah. This 19th-century cottage enhances the Old North streetscape and sets a positive example for others. This award will be given at a later date.

Adaptive Re-Use Project

Exterior of 340 Richmond Street after restoration

The award for the Adaptive Re-Use Project is being presented to Youth Opportunities Unlimited, for their extensive, sympathetic renovation of the historic warehouse at 340 Richmond Street built in 1875.

The honourees have repurposed the formerly derelict building into an employment resource centre and housing for young people, adding to Youth Opportunity Unlimited’s existing youth services in this complex.

The architect responsible for this restoration is Cornerstone Architecture, and the General Contractor was Graceview Enterprises. This award was presented by Michael Wojtak (HLF president) on Tuesday, February 16th.

Small-Scale Restoration Project #3

Another Small-Scale Restoration Project award is being given to Clayton MacNeil and Jennifer Pevler for their work on 135 Duchess Avenue. They improved the facade on an early-20th-century brick house by adding a roofed porch with pillars made of wood so as to maintain the original look of the building, which enhanced the local streetscape.

This award was presented by Councillor Stephen Turner on Wednesday, February 17th.

Major Restoration Project

275-285 Queens Avenue / 440 Wellington Street

The award for Major Restoration Project was presented to the Middlesex Condominium Corporation #97 for their restoration of 275 and 285 Queens Avenue and 440 Wellington Street.

They thoughtfully refurbished the balconies of these historic downtown apartments, even including the original acorn finials. This area is an integral part of London’s downtown history, and serves as a major landmark. It has consistently benefitted from responsible ownership and excellent maintenance.

The work on the balconies was performed by Edison Engineers and Brick & Co. Restoration. This award was presented by Kelley McKeating (ACO London president) on Wednesday, February 17th.

Congratulations to all honourees, and thank you so much for your tremendous work to keep London’s roots alive and on display. Preserving our heritage is not always an easy task, but it is always worthwhile.