Two popular Hamilton buildings win awards for ‘best adaptive reuse’ of heritage property

Every year the Hamilton Municipal Heritage Committee celebrates and recognizes contributions of its residents, in conserving Hamilton’s heritage.

Two buildings have won Heritage Recognition Awards for the ‘adaptive reuse’ of some of Hamilton’s oldest buildings in 2022-23.

200 Caroline St N, Hamilton Bridgeworks Company Ltd:

Courtesy: Hamilton Bridge Works Company (1894)

Originally built in 1872, the Hamilton Bridgeworks Company Ltd holds a significant place in Canada’s industrial history.

As manufacturers of steel, truss bridges for crucial infrastructure projects, including Canada’s railway system, the Welland Canal,  the Burlington Canal Lift Bridge and more, the company played a vital role in shaping the nation’s transportation infrastructure.

After the Bridgeworks Company ceased operations, the City of Hamilton repurposed the building as a Carpenter shop. However, its true transformation came when it was leased to Sonic Unyon, an organization that turned it into a vibrant cultural hub.

(2023)

The building now hosts live music events and has become a community gathering space that values affordability, inclusivity, and accessibility for all residents.

366 Victoria Ave North, The Factory Media Centre (FMC):

Courtesy: Hamilton Municipal Heritage Committee

Constructed in 1911, The Cataract Power Company was originally designed to promote the adoption of hydroelectricity as a power source for industries.

Today, the building has been creatively adapted into The Factory Media Centre (FMC). FMC has transformed the space into a multi-faceted facility equipped with a sound stage, a 500-square-foot gallery, and various amenities for its members.

These amenities include an editing suite, sound recording and multimedia studio, and equipment storage, providing artists and filmmakers with state-of-the-art resources.

Through the efforts of property owners, educators, developers, and volunteers, the City of Hamilton wants to continue to breathe new life into its historic structures, keeping the spirit of the past alive.