Client: Public Services and Procurement Canada Location: 1081 Main St, Moncton, New Brunswick Year of project completion: 2020
This high-profile envelope renewal project rejuvenated the Federal government’s visual presence in Moncton, while addressing serious deterioration and providing long-term protection of an important heritage landmark. The Dominion Public Building complex consists of the 1936, Recognized Federal Heritage four-storey Beaux-Arts limestone-clad building, a 1950 Highfield Street extension with an infilled skylit rear court, and a 1960 five-storey Main Street extension, which had been re-clad in Exterior Insulation Finish System (EIFS) that had suffered widespread failures, water infiltration, and ongoing maintenance issues.
Based on a 2014 technical report, the project scope included removing the failing EIFS and face-sealed windows on the 1960 extension, replacing them with a durable rain-screen cladding system, and renewing the 1950 low roof and leaking skylight. A new fall-arrest anchoring system improved safety for maintenance access. The client wanted an elegant, modern design with contemporary thermal efficiency. We employed best building practices to achieve a 50-year service life, which includes new windows, improved insulation, sustainable materials and occupant comfort.
(l) The new aluminium composite panel cladding ensures a clear and harmonious transition. It is distinguished by a tripartite composition, directly echoing that of the original building. The mouldings of the new cladding, resolutely contemporary, subtly reference the rhythm and materiality of the historic cut stone.
(r) The moulded profile is designed to replicate the shape of railway tracks, referencing the deep ties that connect Moncton to Canadian railway history.
Old meets new: At the junction of the 1936 building and the reclad structure, composite aluminum panels create a clean and visually harmonious transition between the two forms. The simplified detailing emphasizes the contrast between the historic character of the original building and the refined aesthetics of modern architecture. The result is a clearly articulated connection that highlights the evolution of the site while respecting the distinct identities of both the old and the new.
The existing skylight, which had deteriorated over time and become a persistent source of leaks, was removed in its entirety and replaced by a clerestory structure. This updated configuration offers a more durable, weather resistant solution that delivers diffuse, balanced natural light into the office space below, improving visual quality, overall occupant experience and long-term building performance.
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