Divinity turns modern

St. John the Divine was built in two phases (the first in 1929 and the second in 1937) by George Allen Ross and Henry Macdonald, the same Canadian architects who built the Château Laurier and the Holt Renfrew building. The church is a reflection of Neo-Gothic architecture which was the trend at the time. “The structure of this church is made of red bricks, and not of stone like the ones you see in Catholic churches”, said Collin Niemi who bought the building with his associate François Laurin in January 2007. The church closed its doors to the public in 2006.

The two businessmen specialise in restoring and converting heritage properties and have given carte blanche to architect Luc Gélinas to undertake the conversion. “It’s a dream project for an architect to convert a historical building of this kind”, Mr. Gélinas said. When the work involves transforming an enormous structure into multiple small units, the challenge is to preserve the soul of the original structure and to integrate into it several historical elements to remind people of the source and origin of the building.”

The work will begin in June and will adhere to the recommendations contained in a patrimonial study conducted by an independent firm of architects. In this report, the symbolic value of the church was emphasised. “It is important that people view this church as a pillar of the Anglican community that lived in Verdun in the 1930s”, the architect explained.

To preserve the church’s historical character, the changes will take on a contemporary approach. This should create a contrast between modern trends and the Neo-Gothic features of the church which should stand out. The exterior façade will be restored but the plans call for preserving the church’s appearance”, Benoît Mallette added. He is Chief of the Urban Division of Verdun Borough.

The plan is to build a total of 17 units spread out over three floors. “The apartments will offer modern comforts combined with the ambiance of historical architecture”, Niemi said. Luc Gélinas has chosen to create open spaces. “The condos will be like lofts and will be full-scaled in design. Most of the units will have two or more closed bedrooms. Modern materials will be used. For example, there will be quartz counters and hardwood floors, the architect said. “In spite of these modern touches, we will be able to preserve what can be possibly preserved”, he added.

In line with the architectural plans, several apartments on the highest floor will have a mezzanine to highlight the original structure of the roof. This area will have condos that will measure more than 20 feet. Residents on the highest floor can also enjoy private balconies which will be built on the roof’s flat surfaces.

The huge original window bay in the centre of the exterior will also be preserved. “We have created free and exposed spaces on each floor facing this window which will enhance the interior and will serve as meeting points for residents”, Mr. Gélinas also explained.

Particular attention will be given to preserving the original openings, hence enabling us to install windows in the shape of an ogive arc. The developer also informed us that four of the five units on the first floor will be designed like cottages characterised by private entrances and gardens.

Major landscaping work is also planned to maintain the green spaces surrounding the church. A few parking spots will therefore be constructed in the church’s basement. “Half a dozen units have already been reserved by interested buyers. They like the original character of our design”, Laurin stated. “The cities and boroughs don’t have the required funds to give these buildings a more community-like orientation. I believe that a well-planned residential development is therefore the best alternative to conserve this building’s religious heritage”, Niemi explained.

Mr. Mallette, on the other hand, believes that this type of project which is not very common will contribute to the revitalisation efforts of the City of Verdun. Given the numerous businesses and restos that have moved here, the city continues to flourish with the years. “It will attract certain individuals who will contribute to the diversity and revival of the Verdun community.”