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Photo: Peterborough's Y Lofts (formerly the local YMCA)
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Peterborough
Old Post Office, 201 Charlotte Street
Year built: 1952-55
Builder: Craig and Strong
Original purpose: This former post office was the first postwar building in Peterborough designated under the Ontario Heritage Act. Built to replace the late-19th-century Romanesque post office around the corner, this building was meant to be constructed in 1914 but was delayed by the First World War. Opened in 1955, it was heralded as the “most modern post office in Canada” at the time. It was occupied by the federal government until the late 1990s and then stood vacant for several years.
Adaptive reuse: In 2002, AON Inc. bought the old post office and began planning to convert it into residential units. Construction began in 2004 but was immediately interrupted by the flooding of downtown Peterborough. But, following a major community cleanup, work began again later that year and the building was ready for occupancy — with 91 market-rate units — in 2005. Many of the building’s original features remain.
Adapted by: AON Inc.
Awards: Unknown
Links:
Mount St. Joseph (Mount Community Centre), 1545 Monaghan Road
Year built: 1865
Builder: Unknown
Original purpose: Constructed in 1865, this church and its 4 hectares (10 acres) of land near downtown Peterborough became the Motherhouse of the Peterborough Sisters of St. Joseph in 1895. When their membership began to decline, the congregation built a new residence adjacent to the original building in 2009. In 2012, this property went onto the market.
Adaptive reuse: The Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network saw possibilities here and purchased the vacant convent in 2013. Following the redevelopment of the site, 78 apartment units of varying sizes, types and rents became available, as well as a state-of-the-art food centre and rooms for community use.
Adapted by: The Mount Community Centre
Awards: Unknown
Links:
Peterborough Family YMCA, 475 George Street North
Year built: 1895
Builder: William Blackwell
Original purpose: Several generations of Peterborough residents learned to swim and play basketball at the former YMCA building on George Street North. When the YMCA moved to new facilities in 2007, the red-and-brick structure — which includes city hall, a heritage armoury and a former high school building — sat vacant for nearly 15 years.
Adaptive reuse: Following several years of being vacant, the building was purchased by Atria Development and converted into 136 upscale rental apartments. The extensive restoration honours the site’s heritage and its original Romanesque design. With three new storeys added to the original structure, the Y Lofts is now a vibrant hub in Peterborough’s downtown core once more. A popular site to visit during Doors Open Peterborough 2022.
Adapted by: Atria Development
Awards: Unknown
Links:
