The Aull Block project began as a comprehensive code and condition assessment of a historic downtown building in anticipation of future leasing opportunities. The initial scope involved evaluating building use, exiting, washroom provisions, and overall structural condition. This preliminary review identified several urgent concerns requiring immediate remediation before occupancy could proceed.

Key challenges included significant structural settlement, which necessitated raising and leveling both the main and second floors. The project scope expanded to include upgrades to fire separations, the addition of insulation and vapour barriers, and the reinforcement of basement walls with new gypsum wall board—all while preserving the building’s historical integrity.

Due to the building’s complex history and previous grandfathered conditions, close collaboration with the City of Calgary’s Building Regulations and Safety Codes departments was essential. Our team worked hand-in-hand with city officials to navigate the compliance landscape and deliver a solution that satisfied code requirements without compromising heritage value.

This project exemplifies the adaptive challenges of historic building rehabilitation and reflects our studio’s ability to respond nimbly to the evolving realities of heritage renovation projects.