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South Facade Restoration, Centre Block, Parliament Hill
South Facade Restoration, Centre Block, Parliament Hill, Morrison Hershfield

The restoration work on this significant heritage building involved work to the windows and copper roofing.  Careful attention to detail and good record keeping were essential to maintaining the aesthetic of this building.  Through highly intensive building envelope design, Morrison Hershfield was able to improve energy efficiency, building durability, and occupant comfort.

As part of the conservation team, Morrison Hershfield provided design advice for the replacement of the copper roof with a new insulated air tight assembly while respecting the proportion of the original design.  We also assisted with the reinstatement of the steel frame window system in keeping the original windows that had previously been replaced with aluminum framed units.  To minimize air leakage and condensation issues we used a dual framed window assembly that allowed the use of steel frame windows matching the original profiles without compromising performance. During this assignment, great care was taken to minimize the effects of construction on building occupants, including the Prime Minister.  Methods included customized dust enclosures and appropriate scheduling to minimize noise levels.

The project involved:

  • Restoration of existing historic windows, including removals (where necessary), replacement of key sealants and institution of functioning air/vapor barrier connections
  • Replacement of historic copper roofing, bringing the system up to modern water penetration resistance standards and providing an insulated air barrier to improve occupant comfort in the attic level office

Proper detailing and detailed construction review by our building science specialists were key in ensuring a functioning building envelope, given the humidification requirements for the office and assembly space.  Interior air quality was improved by allowing humidified and controlled environments. 

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