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HomeMy WebLinkAboutDSD-2026-076 - Municipal Heritage Register Review - March 2026 Update Development Services Department www.kitchener.ca REPORT TO: Heritage Kitchener DATE OF MEETING: March 3, 2026 SUBMITTED BY: Garett Stevenson, Director of Development and Housing Approvals, 519-783-8922 PREPARED BY: Victoria Grohn, Heritage Planner, 519-783-8912 Michelle Drake, Senior Heritage Planner, 519-783-8909 WARD(S) INVOLVED: Ward 9, 10 DATE OF REPORT: February 4, 2026 REPORT NO.: DSD-2026-076 SUBJECT: Municipal Heritage Register Review Î March 2026 Update RECOMMENDATION: That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the cultural heritage value or interest be recognized and designation be pursued for the following properties: 265 Weber Street East 141-149 Borden Avenue North 55 King Street West REPORT HIGHLIGHTS: The purpose of this report is to recommend pursuing designation under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act for three (3) properties that are currently listed as non-designated properties of cultural heritage value or interest on the Municipal Heritage Register. The key finding of this report is that the properties possess design/physical, historical/associative, and/or contextual value and meet the criteria for designation under Ontario Regulation 9/06 (amended through Ontario Regulation 569/22). There are no financial implications. Community engagement included consultation with the Heritage Kitchener Committee. This report supports the delivery of core services. BACKGROUND: st On January 1, 2023, amendments to the Ontario Heritage Act came into effect through Bill 23, the More Homes Build Faster Act. One of the primary changes introduced was a new timeline which requires ÐlistedÑ properties on the Municipal Heritage Register to be evaluated to determine if they meet the criteria for heritage designation before January 1, 2025. Bill 200, the Homeowners Protection Act, 2024, extended this timeline to January 1, 2027. Listed properties are properties that have not been designated, but that the municipal Council believes to be of cultural heritage value or interest. The criteria for *** This information is available in accessible formats upon request. *** Please call 519-741-2345 or TTY 1-866-969-9994 for assistance. Page 248 of 282 designation are established by the Provincial Government (Ontario Regulation 9/06, amended through Ontario Regulation 569/22) and a minimum of two must be met for a property to be eligible for designation. Progress on Work Plan Implementation A work plan was developed by Heritage Planning Staff in consultation with the Heritage th Kitchener Committee on February 7, 2023. As part of the work plan, Heritage Planning Staff committed to the review of 80 properties listed on the Municipal Heritage Register prior to January 1, 2025. As of the date of this report, a review has been completed for 110 listed properties resulting in the following outcomes: 6 properties are being proposed for designation at the February 3, 2026 Heritage Kitchener committee meeting; 56 properties have been designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act; 41 properties are under review and are at various stages of the review process; 12 properties were reviewed and it was determined that no action should be taken at this time; and, 1 Notice of Intention to Designate was withdrawn by Council. This report contains a summary of the findings for the properties recently reviewed, and recommendations for next steps. REPORT: Among the changes that were implemented through Bill 23, Ontario Regulation 9/06 Î the regulation used to determine the cultural heritage value or interest of a property, was amended through Ontario Regulation 569/22 (O. Reg. 569/22). Where the original regulation had three main categories Î design/physical, historical/associative and contextual - with three (3) sub-categories for determining cultural heritage value, the amended regulation now lists all nine (9) criteria independently. The new regulation has been amended to the following: 1. The property has design value or physical value because it is a rare, unique, representative or early example of a style, type, expression, material or construction method. 2. The property has design value or physical value because it displays a high degree of craftsmanship or artistic merit. 3. The property has design value or physical value because it demonstrates a high degree of technical or scientific achievement. 4. The property has historical value or associative value because it has direct associations with a theme, event, belief, person, activity, organization or institution that is significant to a community. 5. The property has historical or associative value because it yields, or has the potential to yield, information that contributes to an understanding of a community or culture. 6. The property has historical value or associative value because it demonstrates or reflects the work or ideas of an architect, artist, builder, designer or theorist who is significant to a community. Page 249 of 282 7. The property has contextual value because it is important in defining, maintaining or supporting the character of an area. 8. The property has contextual value because it is physically, functionally, visually or historically linked to its surroundings. 9. The property has contextual value because it is a landmark. Also, among the changes brought about by Bill 23 are how properties can be listed or designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. They include: Properties warrant being listed on the Municipal Heritage Register if they meet one or more criteria of O. Reg 9/06 (amended through O. Reg. 569/22). Properties warrant designation under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act if they meet two or more criteria of O. Reg 9/06 (amended through O. Reg. 569/22). The following properties were evaluated to determine their cultural heritage value or interest: 265 Weber Street East The property has design value or physical value because it is a rare, unique, representative, or early example of a style, type, expression, material or construction method. The property has historical value or associative value because it has direct associations with a theme, event, belief, person, activity, organization or institution that is significant to a community. The property has historical value or associative value because it yields, or has the potential to yield, information that contributes to an understanding of a community or culture. The property has historical value or associative value because it demonstrates or reflects the work or ideas of an architect, artist, builder, designer or theorist who is significant to a community. The property has contextual value because it is important in defining, maintaining or supporting the character of an area. The property has contextual value because it is physically, functionally, visually, or historically linked to its surroundings. 141-149 Borden Avenue North The property has design value or physical value because it is a rare, unique, representative, or early example of a style, type, expression, material or construction method. The property has historical value or associative value because it has direct associations with a theme, event, belief, person, activity, organization or institution that is significant to a community. The property has historical value or associative value because it yields, or has the potential to yield, information that contributes to an understanding of a community or culture. The property has historical value or associative value because it demonstrates or reflects the work or ideas of an architect, artist, builder, designer or theorist who is significant to a community. The property has contextual value because it is important in defining, maintaining or supporting the character of an area. Page 250 of 282 The property has contextual value because it is physically, functionally, visually, or historically linked to its surroundings. 55 King Street West The property has design value or physical value because it is a rare, unique, representative or early example of a style, type, expression, material or construction method. The property has design value or physical value because it demonstrates a high degree of technical or scientific achievement. The property has historical value or associative value because it has direct associations with a theme, event, belief, person, activity, organization or institution that is significant to a community. The property has historical value or associative value because it demonstrates or reflects the work or ideas of an architect, artist, builder, designer or theorist who is significant to a community. The property has contextual value because it is important in defining, maintaining or supporting the character of an area. The property has contextual value because it is physically, functionally, visually or historically linked to its surroundings. Based on the review and evaluation of the above properties, Heritage Planning staff recommend that formal Notice of Intention to Designate (NOID) process under the Ontario Heritage Act be commenced and that a NOID be brought to Heritage Kitchener and Council for consideration in 2026. STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT: This report supports the delivery of core services. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Capital Budget Î The recommendation has no impact on the Capital Budget. Operating Budget Î The recommendation has no impact on the Operating Budget. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: INFORM Î This report has been posted to the CityÓs website with the agenda in advance of the Heritage Kitchener committee meeting. CONSULT Î The Heritage Kitchener committee was consulted at previous meetings regarding the proposed workplan to review the Municipal Heritage Register of Listed, Non- designated Properties of cultural heritage value or interest. PREVIOUS REPORTS/AUTHORITIES: Ontario Heritage Act Heritage Kitchener Committee Work Plan 2022-2024 Î DSD-2023-053 Bill 23 Î Municipal Heritage Register Review Î DSD-2023-225 Page 251 of 282 Kitchener Municipal Heritage Register Review Î August Update 2023 Î DSD-2023- 309 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î January 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-022 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î March 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-093 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î April 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-131 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î May 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-194 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î June 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-250 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î August 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-333 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î September 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-361 Municipal Heritage Register Î October 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-426 Municipal Heritage Register- November 2024 Update Î DSD-2024-444 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î March 2025 Update Î DSD-2025-031 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î April 2025 Update Î DSD-2025-108 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î August 2025 Update Î DSD-2025-317 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î October 2025 Update Î DSD-2025-357 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î December 2025 Update Î DSD-2025-467 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î January 2026 Update Î DSD-2025-467 Municipal Heritage Register Review Î February 2026 Update Î DSD-2026-044 REVIEWED BY: Sandro Bassanese, Manager of Site Plan APPROVED BY: Justin Readman, General Manager, Development Services Department ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A Î Statement of Significance Î 256 Weber Street East Attachment B Î Statement of Significance Î 141-149 Borden Avenue North Attachment C - Statement of Significance Î 55 King Street West Page 252 of 282 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 265 WEBER STREET EAST Summary of Significance Design/Physical Value Social Value Historical Value Economic Value Contextual Value Environmental Value Municipal Address: 265 Weber Street East Legal Description: Plan 339 Lot 17 and 18 Part Lot 16 and 19 Year Built: 1948 Architectural Style: Structuralist Original Owne r: Michael Kraus Original Use: Residential Apartments Condition: Good Description of Cultural Heritage Resource th 265 Weber Street East is a three-storey mid-20 century brick apartment building constructed in the Structuralist architectural style. The building is situated on a 0.36 acre parcel of land located on the south side of Weber Street East between Simeon Street and Borden Avenue North in the King East Planning Community of the City of Kitchener within the Region of Waterloo. The principal resource that contributes to the heritage value is the apartment building. Page 253 of 282 Heritage Value 265 Weber Street East is recognized for its design/physical and historical/associative values. Design/Physical Value The design/physical value of 265 Weber Street East relates to the architecture of the apartment building. The building is a representative example of the Structuralist style of architecture, characterized by its cubic built form, rectilinear massing of modest proportions, clear expression of interior functions on the exterior of the building, and flat roof. The building is three-storeys in height id in common bond with six courses of stretchers between header courses; symmetrical façade; cast-stone and vitrolite entrance surround with the around windows above entrance; and concrete foundation. Front/Main Façade (North Elevation Facing Weber Street East) The front façade of the apartment building is symmetrical, with a wider central recessed portion and two narrower projecting bays. The middle portion of this elevation consists of a prominent triple-height central entrance portal in cast stone with ribbon windows on either side of it. The portal surrounds a single metal-framed glass door and two windows above. The door is framed by black vitrolite panels. The cast stone lintel above the door is engraved with the name of the building in capi of the door are white metal and glass hanging light fixtures. The upper portion of the portal is slightly narrower and divided from the lower portion by a cast-stone cornice. It contains two sash windows, which light the second- and third-storey landings of the interior stairwell. To either side of the tall portal are ribbon windows set within a flat brick surface at the basement and each of the upper three storeys. Each ribbon has three sash windows, a cast-stone sill, and a soldier course of bricks above. The two projecting bays to either side of the central part of the front façade have paired sash windows at the basement and each of the upper three storeys. These have the same treatment as the wider ribbon windows on the central portion. All window frames are white. Side Façade (East Elevation Facing Garage) This elevation is a large, flat brick wall. A symmetrical pattern of six sash windows of slightly different sizes repeats in the central portion at the basement and three upper storeys. The windows have the same cast-stone sill, brick soldier course, and white frames as the other elevations. Rear Façade (South Elevation Facing The rear façade is similar to the front elevation but plainer, with no cast-stone or vitrolite embellishments. The rear entrance is a half-light, paneled white-painted metal door. The window arrangement at the basement also differs: the left projecting bay has a single rather than paired sash window and the central portion to the left of the entrance has two sash windows rather than a ribbon. One of these has been filled in. The second-storey apartment windows on the right side have green metal awnings. Side Façade (West Elevation Facing Adjacent Residence) The west elevation is similar to the east elevation, except there are five rather than six windows at the basement level. The fifth basement window opening has been filled in and covered with siding. Page 254 of 282 Garage To the east of the apartment building, there is a one-storey garage building with a flat roof. The west elevation of the garage, facing the apartment building, is of textured brick and features nine numbered parking bays. Each bay is divided on the interior by a concrete-block wall and has a paneled garage door, which is either a colour matching the brick or black. A few of the doors have glass panels at eye level. Between each parking bay is a white triangular knee brace supporting the roof overhang, which has faceted white metal fascia trim. The north elevation of the garage facing Weber Street East is a plain white-washed wall with an off-centre white downspout, the return of the brick on the right side, and fascia trim continuing at the parapet. Historical/Associative Value The historical/associative value of 265 Weber Street East relates to the role of apartment buildings in of co-operative housing in Kitchener. Role of Apartments in Postwar Housing The property municipally addressed as 265 Weber Street East illustrates the role of apartment buildings in addressing postwar housing needs in Kitchener. The apartment was built in the buildings, public schools, and apartment complexes for the growing postwar population of Canada. et. al., 2011). The building at 265 Weber Street East is part of a series of several apartments built by different owners on the same plan around 1948. The buildings are all three storeys and constructed of brick with raised basements and similar exterior detailing. Their plans consist of two different modules: an H-shaped module and a smaller, rectangular module. Co-operative Housing in Kitchener The property municipally addressed as 265 Weber Street South is associated with the early history of housing co-operatives in the City of Kitchener. The co-operative housing movement in Canada dates to the 1930s, with housing for mining families in Nova Scotia and student housing at the University of Toronto as some of the first examples. After WWII, groups in major Canadian cities independently organized housing co-ops to meet their needs amidst postwar housing shortages (MacPhearson, 2008). In the 1940s, co-operative housing was new and unfamiliar in Kitchener. In 1946, a plan by Harry or 32 homes to be built on a co-operative basis iple dwelling, with a headline in the paper announcing cord, 1948b). To buy in to the co-op, residents made a down payment as well as monthly payments for 20 to 25 years, thus becoming shareholders in a company rather than owners of individual units. The sale of the building by the builder and original owner, Michael Kraus, to the Eastview Co-operative was finalized in March 1949 for $104,000 (Kitchener-Waterloo Record, 1949b). Page 255 of 282 The association of 265 Weber Street East with the history of co-operative housing in Kitchener is particularly strong because of its continuity. In 2025, the building is still owned by the co-operative housing corporation Eastview Co-operative Apts., with 15 shareholding members. Many residents live in the building for several decades, with a record residency of fifty-seven years. Michael Kraus The building has associative value related to its original owner and builder, Rev. Michael Kraus Kraus was born Mihail Krauss in Meeburg (Romanian: Beia, Hungarian: Homoródbene or Szászbénye), a small village of German-speaking Lutheran Saxons in Transylvania, Romania. He immigrated to Canada in 1926 at the age of 18. In the 1930s, he worked at the Baetz Furniture Co. business importing and manufacturing fabrics in the 1940s, later founding Kraus Carpet Mills in 1959 and Strudex Fibres in 1971. When he died at age 95 in 2003, his companies employed over 900 people in Canada, the United States, and Australia. Kraus Carpets and Strudex Fibres operated in Waterloo until 2018 and in 2025, the company continues as the US-based Kraus Flooring (The Canadian Press, 2018). Kraus became a member of the New Apostolic Church in 1932 and was ordained into the ministry the following year. He served in various capacities, becoming a district apostle and national leader of the work as a builder were intertwined. In 1945, he served as the contractor for a new church building in Kitchener, which still stands in 2025 at 182 Victoria Street North. He also helped build the current church in 1974, a prominent Collegiate Gothic stone building at 160 Margaret Avenue. As part of his missionary work, Kraus also organized the construction of thousands of church buildings in other countries. He was the founder and president of Stamm Investments, a company owned by the New Apostolic Church of Canada, which was involved in apartment construction and land development. The in the worldwide growth of the New Apostolic The New Apostolic Church is a Christian denomination that considers itself a re-establishment of the early church founded by the first apostles, and its leaders their successors. The connection that Kraus might have seen between church-building and physical building might be gleaned from a 1935 statement by Martin Keuchler, with whom Kraus builders of the church ... Upon this foundation t Record 1935). Contextual Value The contextual value of 265 Weber Street East resi and supporting the character of the Weber Street East streetscape. The building is in its original location and maintains its original use as an apartment building. Prior to WWII, the area around this The property is physically, functionally, visually, and historically linked to its surroundings. This apartment building and the buildings surrounding it were constructed around the same time. There is also a link between this building and the neighbouring H-Plan apartment buildings at 105-117 Onward Avenue and 141-149 Borden Avenue North. Page 256 of 282 Heritage Attributes The heritage value of 265 Weber Street East resides in the following heritage attributes: All elements related to the Structuralist architectural style of the apartment building including: o Cubic built form and rectilinear massing; o Flat roof; o o Red rug brick; o Brick banding; o Symmetrical façade; o o Cast-stone detail around windows above entrance; and o Concrete foundation. All elements related to the contextual value, including: o Location of the apartment building and the contribution that it makes to the continuity and character of the Weber Street East streetscape. References Bonk, D. (2025). Rev. Michael Kraus: Waterloo Region Generations. Retrieved June 14, 2025, from https://generations.regionofwaterloo.ca/getperson.php?personID=I158920&tree=generations. s flooring to sell distributi CBC News. Retrieved June 14, 2025, from https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/waterloo-s-kraus-flooring-to- sell-distribution-and-cease-manufacturing-1.4819959. Kitchener Daily Record. (1946a, March the Canadian Co-operative Movement: A Summary, a Little Historiography, and ockholm. Retrieved June 26, 2025, from https://www.academia.edu/4377143/Canadian_Co_op_History. nd Ricketts, Shannon, Leslie Maitland, and Jacqueline Hucker. A Guide to Canadian Architectural Styles. 2 ed. Peterborough, ON: Broadview Press, 2004. Vernon Directories Limited. (1930). . Hamilton, ON. Page 257 of 282 Photographs Front Elevation (North FaŒade) Page 258 of 282 Rear Elevation (South FaŒade) Page 259 of 282 Side Elevation (East FaŒade) Page 260 of 282 Side Elevation (West FaŒade) Page 261 of 282 Detailing of front entrance portal Page 262 of 282 Detailing of detached garage (not a heritage attribute) Page 263 of 282 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 141-149 BORDEN AVENUE NORTH Summary of Significance Design/Physical Value Social Value Historical Value Economic Value Contextual Value Environmental Value Municipal Address: 141-149 Borden Avenue North Legal Description: Plan 655 Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 33 Part Lot 32 Year Built: c. 1948 Architectural Style: Structuralist Original Owne r: Martin Kuechler Original Use: Residential Apartments Condition: Good Description of Cultural Heritage Resource th 141-149 Borden Avenue North are three-storey mid-20 century brick apartment buildings constructed in the Structuralist architectural style. The buildings are situated on a 0.60 acre parcel of land located on the south side of Borden Avenue North between Weber Street East and East Avenue in the King East Planning Community of the City of Kitchener within the Region of Waterloo. The principal resource that contributes to the heritage value are the apartment buildings. Page 264 of 282 Heritage Value 141-149 Borden Avenue North is recognized for its design/physical, historical/associative, and contextual values. Design/Physical Value The design/physical value of 141-149 Borden Avenue North relates to the architecture of the apartment buildings. The buildings are a representative example of the Structuralist style of architecture, characterized by cubic built form, rectilinear massing of modest proportions, clear expression of interior functions on the exterior of the building, and flat roof. The buildings are three- multi-coloured rug brick laid in common bond with six courses of stretchers between header courses; symmetrical façade; cast-stone and vitrolite entrance above entrance; and concrete foundation. Front/Main Façade (North Elevations Facing Borden Avenue North) The front façades of the two buildings are nearly identical. They are symmetrical, with a wider central recessed portion and two narrower projecting bays. The middle portion of the front façade consists of a prominent triple-height central entrance portal in cast stone with ribbon windows on either side of it. The portal surrounds a single aluminum-framed glass door and two windows above. The door is framed by black vitrolite panels (which appear to have been replaced with newer glass side panels at 141 Borden). The panel above the door is engraved with the building number in a distinctive sans-serif typeface, set within a circle. The cast stone lintel above the door is engraved with the name of fixtures. The upper portion of the portal is slightly narrower and divided from the lower portion by a cast-stone cornice. It contains two sash windows, which light the second- and third-storey landings of the interior stairwell. To either side of the tall portal are ribbon windows set within a flat brick surface at the basement and each of the upper three storeys. Each ribbon has three sash windows, a cast- stone sill, and a soldier course of bricks above. The two projecting bays to either side of the central part of the front façade have paired sash windows at the basement and each of the upper three storeys. These have the same treatment as the wider ribbon windows on the central portion. All window frames are pale yellow. Side Façade (West Elevations Facing Towards Weber Street East) The west elevations of the two buildings are large, flat brick walls. A symmetrical pattern of six sash windows of slightly different sizes repeats in the central portion at the basement and three upper storeys. The windows have the same cast-stone sill, brick soldier course, and pale-yellow frames as the other elevations. rises up to the basement windowsills. At 149 is lower and the concrete foundation is visible below the basement windowsills; also, one of the basement windows is an awning rather than a sash. Rear Façade (South Elevations Facing Weber Street/Adjacent Residence) The rear façades are similar to the front elevations but plainer, with no cast-stone or Vitrolite embellishments. The rear entrances are half-light metal doors in a pale yellow colour that matched the window frames. Page 265 of 282 black roof where the central portion and the eastern projecting bay meet. Two windows in this area are square instead of ribbons. Side Façade (East Elevations Facing Towards Adjacent Apartment Building) The east elevations are similar to the west elevat rather than six windows at basement level. One of these has been filled in and covered with vertical siding, and one is a fixed window rather than a sash. None of them have sills. At both buildings, the grade rises up to the bottom of the windows (aspha Historical/Associative Value The historical/associative value of 141-149 Borden Avenue North relates to the role of apartment Keuchler. Role of Apartments in Postwar Housing The property municipally addressed as 141-129 Borden Avenue North illustrates the role of apartment buildings in addressing postwar housing needs in Kitchener. The two buildings were built in the buildings, public schools, and apartment complexes for the growing postwar population of Canada. period which provided convenient dwelling units in a et. al., 2011). The two buildings at 141-149 Borden Avenue North are part of a series of several apartments built by different owners on the same plan around 1948. The buildings are all three storeys and constructed of brick with raised basements and similar exterior detailing. Their plans consist of two different modules: an H-shaped module (as at 141-149 Borden Avenue North) and a smaller, rectangular module. Martin Kuechler Martin Kuechler was the original owner and builder of the apartment buildings at 141-149 Borden Avenue North. He was rector of the New Apostolic Church in Kitchener since 1933, when it was founded as a branch of the Waterloo church (Kitchener Daily Record, 1935; 1945). He is thus strongly associated with the early history of this denomination in the city. The church was originally located in a converted residence at 182 Victoria Street North, where Kuechler also lived with his wife Martha Keuchler (Kitchener Daily Record, 1935; Vernon, 1935; 1940). By 1943, the congregation numbered 102, and two years later, it built a new church on the same site to accommodate 300 (Kitchener Daily Record, 1943; 1945). Keuchler held a variety of jobs in addition to his pastoral duties at the New Apostolic Church. He and contractors at the time the apartments at 141-149 Borden Avenue North were constructed (Vernon, 1949; 1950). Keuchler and his wife moved to Hamilton around 1949-1950, where he became an elder at the New Apostolic Church in that city (The Hamilton Spectator, 1948; Kitchener-Waterloo Record, 1951; The Brantford Expositor, 1955). Heritage Attributes The heritage value of 141-149 Borden Avenue North resides in the following heritage attributes: Page 266 of 282 All elements related to the Structuralist architectural style of the apartment buildings including: o Cubic built form and rectilinear massing; o Flat roof; o o Multi-coloured rug brick; o Brick banding; o Symmetrical façade; o o Cast-stone detail around windows above entrance; and o Concrete foundation. All elements related to the contextual value, including: o Location of the apartment buildings and the contribution that they make to the continuity and character of the Borden Avenue North streetscape. References The Brantford Expositor. (1955, Kitchener-Waterloo Record. (1949, January 8). Bernardo Tile Co. advertisement. Page 7. Kitchener-Waterloo Record. (1951, March Vernon Directories Limited. (1935). . Hamilton, ON. Vernon Directories Limited. (1940). . Hamilton, ON. Vernon Directories Limited. (1947). . Hamilton, ON. Vernon Directories Limited. (1949). Vernon's Kitchener - Waterloo City Directories. Hamilton, ON. Vernon Directories Limited. (1950). Vernon's Kitchener - Waterloo City Directories. Hamilton, ON. Page 267 of 282 Photographs 141 149 Front Elevations (North FaŒade) Page 268 of 282 141 149 Rear Elevations (South FaŒade) Page 269 of 282 149 141 Side Elevations (West FaŒade) 149 141 Side Elevations (East FaŒade) Page 270 of 282 141 149 Detailing of front entrance portals Page 271 of 282 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 55 King Street West Summary of Significance Social Value Design/Physical Value Historical/Associative Value Economic Value Contextual Value Environmental Value Municipal Address: 55 King Street West Legal Description: Plan 381 Part Lots 6, 7 & 8 RP 58R-7410 Parts 1-13 & 16 Year Built: 1992 Architectural Style: Contemporary International Original Owne r: Truscan Realty Limited (Canada Trust Centre) Original Use: Commercial Condition: Good Description of Cultural Heritage Resource th 55 King Street West is a 20 century 12 storey building built in the contemporary International style. The building is situated on a 0.46 acre parcel of land located on the south side of King Street West between Ontario Street and Queen Street in the Downtown Cultural Heritage Landscape of the City of Page 272 of 282 Kitchener within the Region of Waterloo. The principal resource that contributes to the heritage value is the commercial building. Heritage Value 55 King Street West is recognized for its design/physical, historical/associative, and contextual values. Design/Physical Value The commercial building provides a strong example of the contemporary International architectural style, characterized by a sleek material palette, minimalist detailing, and urban scale, within a Canadian urban context. The building balances corporate functionality with architectural refinement while remaining visually distinct from the historic fabric, and contributing to modernization in the downtown. Overall, the building displays four key architectural elements. The first is the glass curtain wall construction system that offers an elegant, uninterrupted verticality while the use of tinted-blue glazing adds a corporate, contempoary tone. The second is the structural expression, which is overt, with the rhythmic precast framing hinting at the buildings grid-base structure and thereby echoeing the functionality of modernism. The third is minimal ornamentation, which is true to the International style where decoration is absent. Instead, interest is created through material contrast (glass versus stone), precise alignment of elements, and the quality of finishes. The last is the roofline, which is flat and understated, capped with a parapet, and a mechanical penthouse that is fully integrated within the building envelope, avoiding visual clutter. It is also interesting to note that the building that exists today represents only have of the orignal architectural vision. A second building was to be built between Halls Lane and Charles Street with an 11 storey glass attrium above Halls Lane connecting the two buildings. The design and physical values relate to the contemporary International architectural style of the building that is in good condition with many intact original elements.The commercial building features: a square plan; 12 storey height; a 3 storey podium base with multiple bays constructed of Orchidea Grey granite and azurlite blue tinted glass that generally align with the height of historic buildings on King Street; building step backs from the podium begin at the fourth floor; building materials at the fourth floor and above are primarily glass with simple geometric lines; clock tower at the corner of King th Street and Ontario Street; two domes on the 12 storey; and, etched glass panels on the interior of the front lobby that describe the history of the site. Front (North Elevation) King Street West Façade The front of the buildng faces King Street West and visually appears as a 3 storey podium of granite with six bays that generally align with the width and height of historic buildings on King Street West. The main entrance at the corner of King and Ontario Street is a 4 storey podium of granite that features full height glass doors and sidelights framed in brushed metal, podium is divided by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between. The building steps back thth from King Street West at each of the 6 through 12 storeys, which helps to reinforce the slender, thth modern profile. The 5 through 11 storeys are dominated by a blue-tinted glass curtain wall system. th The 12 storey is topped with two domes. Side (West) Façade (Ontario Street) The side of the building faces Ontario Street South and visually appears as a 3 storey podium of granite with 7 bays that generally align with the width and height of historic buildings on Ontario Street Page 273 of 282 South. The main entrance at the corner of King and Ontario Street is a 4 storey podium of granite that features full height glass doors and sidelights framed in brushed metal and a clock tower with a dome. th Each bay of the podium is divided by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between. The 4 thndth through 11 storey of the 2 through 4 bay are dominated by a blue-tinted glass curtain wall system. th The 5th and 6 bays are generally horizontally and vertically separated by granite with glazing and th spandrel panels in between. The 12 storey is topped with two domes. Side (East) Façade The side of the building is partially obscured by adjacent development. Where visible, it mirrors the Ontario Street South façade. Rear (South) Façade (Halls Lane) The rear of the building faces Halls Lane with a 3 storey podium of granite that is 6 bays wide. Bay 1 through 5 are 12 storeys in height while bay 6 is only 2 storeys in height. Each bay of the podium is ththst divided by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between. The 4 through 11 storey of the 1 thth through 5 bay are dominated by a blue-tinted glass curtain wall system. The 12 storey is topped with two domes. The design/physical value also demonstrates a high degree of technical achievement. A market brochure produced for the building indicates that: systems. The all-air heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning installation is zoned for individualized comfort and control. Energy efficiency is maximized. Conditioned, fresh air is ducted through overhead air terminals. This feature, not found in most buildings, leaves the perimeter unobstructed and permits easy construction of soundproof and demising walls. Light fixtures include energy saving electronic ballasts and octron fluorescent lamps. The lighting system is computer switched with touch-tone phone control access. For further operating cost reductions, a co-generator provides electricity to the building grid reducing the demand load charges on the Ontario Hyrdo Network. Heat produced by the generator is used to keep Canada Trust Centre comfortable during the winter and to heat water year round. The energy management design has received Ontario Hyrdo endorsement and the building is considered one of the most energy-efficient anywhere in Canada. The technology ensures that energy costs will be In addition, the building won a 1992 National Award for Energy Efficiency in the category of large buildings. Historical/Associative Value The historical/associative values relate to the direct association with the theme of banking and related organizations, including Waterloo County Loan and Savings Company, Waterloo Trust & Savings Company, Canada Trust, and TD Canada Trust. The Waterloo County Loan and Savings Company was founded in 1913 and opened a Kitchener branch in 1914. Founding members included E.F. Seagram, of the Seagram Distillery family; Ford S. Page 274 of 282 for their substantial contributions to the community; and, Peter H. Sims, inventor of the lamp boiler. 1922, the bank had opened their original head office (since demolished) at King Street West and Ontario Street South. The bank moved their head offices to 305 King Street West in 1964. The Waterloo Trust and Savings Company merged with Canada Trust in 1968, and Walter A. Bean served headquartered at the Canada Trust Centre starting in 1992. Canada Trust was acquired by TD in 2000. It is also interesting to note that the following firms were involved in the design and construction of the building. The general contractor was The Jackson Lewis Company Limited which was a one of nto and became the centrepiece of present-day Menkes Housden Partnership, which was founded in 1961 by four associates of the iconic Canadian architect, Peter Dickinson. The structural engineer was Quinn Dressell Associates, the mechanical engineer was The Mitchell Partnership Limited (Guelph), which is now known as BPA, and the electrical engineer was Mulvey & Banani International Inc. Contextual Values The property has contextual value because it helps to define, maintain and support the character of the area using a 3 storey podium base with multiple bays constructed of granite and glass that generally align with the height of historic buildings on King Street West and Ontario Street South. The property also has contextual value because it is physically and historically linked to its surroundings. As noted above, the podium base is designed to fit into the existing Downtown streetscapes of King Street West and Ontario Street South. The building is historically linked to the site of the original headquarters of the Waterloo Trust and Savings Company in Kitchener. Heritage Attributes The heritage value of 55 King Street West resides in the following heritage attributes: All elements related to the construction and contemporary International architectural style of the building, including: o location and orientation of the building; o all building elevations; o square plan, 12 storey height, and 3 storey podium base; o Orchidea Grey granite and azurlite blue tinted glass; Front Façade (King Street West) a 3 storey podium base with six bays constructed of granite and glass that generally align with the width and height of historic buildings on King Street; the main entrance at the corner of King and Ontario Street is a 4 storey podium of granite that features full height glass doors and sidelights framed in brushed metal, the each bay of the podium is divided by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between; th the building steps back from King Street West at each of the 6 through th 12 storeys Page 275 of 282 thth the 5 through 11 storeys are dominated by a glass curtain wall system; building step backs from the podium begin at the fourth floor; building materials at the fourth floor and above are primarily glass with simple geometric lines; and, th the 12 storey is topped with two domes. Side Façade (Ontario Street South) 3 storey podium of granite with 7 bays that generally align with the width and height of historic buildings on Ontario Street South; the main entrance at the corner of King and Ontario Street is a 4 storey podium of granite that features full height glass doors and sidelights framed in brushed metal and a clock tower with a dome; each bay of the podium is divided by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between; ththndth the 4 through 11 storey of the 2 through 4 bay are dominated by a glass curtain wall system; th the 5th and 6 bays are generally horizontally and vertically separated by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between; and, th the 12 storey is topped with two domes. Side Elevation (Interior Lot Line) ththndth the 4 through 11 storey of the 2 through 4 bay are dominated by a glass curtain wall system; th the 5th and 6 bays are generally horizontally and vertically separated by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between; and, th the 12 storey is topped with two domes Rear Elevation (Halls Lane) 3 storey podium of granite that is 6 bays wide; bay 1 through 5 are 12 storeys in height while bay 6 is only 2 storeys in height; each bay of the podium is divided by granite with glazing and spandrel panels in between; ththstth the 4 through 11 storey of the 1 through 5 bay are dominated by a glass curtain wall system; and, th The 12 storey is topped with two domes. o etched glass panels on the interior of the front lobby that describe the history of the site. References Bunina, U., S. Burke, R. Haldenby and I. Suppa. (2021). Inten-City: Walking Tour of Downtown Kitchener. Retrieved on February 5, 2026 from https://uwaterloo.ca/architecture/sites/default/files/uploads/documents/inten- city_walkingtourdowntownkitchener_2021.pdf. Canada Trust. (1968). 1968 Annual Report for the Huron and Erie Mortgage Corporation and the Canada Trust Company. Retrieved on February 5, 2026 from https://digital.library.mcgill.ca/images/hrcorpreports/pdfs/6/631216.pdf. CBC/Radio-Canada. (2026).Business: TD takeover of Canada Trust approved. Retrieved on February 5, 2026 from https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/td-takeover-of-canada-trust-approved- Page 276 of 282 1.241844#:~:text=The%20deal%20was%20first%20announced,Canada%2C%22%20the%20g roup%20says. Region of Waterloo. (2021). Stories from this Land. Retrieved on February 5, 2026 from https://regionofwaterloomuseums.ca/en/exhibits/waterloo-trust.aspx. Staebler, E. (1967). A Brief History of Waterloo Trust Savings Company. Photographs Front Elevation (King Street West) Side Elevation (Ontario Street South) Page 277 of 282 Rear Elevation (Halls Lane) Main Entrance from King Street West Page 278 of 282 CULTURAL HERITAGE EVALUATION FORM Michelle Drake 55 King Street West Address: Recorder: 1992, Contemporary International architectural style November 17, 2025 Description: Date: (date of construction, architectural style, etc) Photographs Attached: Front Facade Right Façade Rear Facade Details Left Façade Setting Heritage Planning Staff Designation Criteria 1. This property has design value or physical value Yes because it is a rare, unique, representative or early example of a style, type, expression, material or construction method. 2. The property has design value or physical value No because it displays a high degree of craftsmanship or artistic merit. 3. The property has design value or physical value Yes because it demonstrates a high degree of technical or scientific achievement. * E.g. - constructed with a unique material combination or use, incorporates challenging geometric designs etc. 4. The property has historical value or associative Yes value because it has direct associations with a theme, event, belief, person, activity, organization or institution that is significant to a community. * Additional archival work may be required. 5. The property has historical or associative value No because it yields, or has the potential to yield, information that contributes to an understanding of a community or culture. * E.g - A commercial building may provide an understanding of how the economic development of the City occured. Additional archival work may be required. 6. The property has historical value or associative No value because it demonstrates or reflects the work or ideas of an architect, artist, builder, designer or theorist who is significant to a community. * Additional archival work may be required. Page 279 of 282 7. The property has contextual value because it is Yes important in defining, maintaining or supporting the character of an area. * E.g. - It helps to define an entrance point to a neighbourhood or helps establish the (historic) rural character of an area. 8. The property has contextual value because it is Yes physically, functionally, visually or historically linked to its surroundings. * Additional archival work may be required. 9. The property has contextual value because it is a No landmark. *within the region, city or neighborhood. Notes Additional Criteria Heritage Planning Staff Interior: Is the interior arrangement, finish, Historic information is engraved in the glass panels craftsmanship and/or detail noteworthy? of the lobby Completeness: Does this structure have other original outbuildings, notable landscaping or external features No that complete the site? Site Integrity: Does the structure occupy its original Yes site? * If relocated, is it relocated on its original site, moved from another site, etc. Alterations: Does this building retain most of its original materials and design features? Please refer to Yes the list of heritage attributes within the Statement of Significance and indicate which elements are still existing and which ones have been removed. Alterations: Are there additional elements or features See architectural description drafted by Heritage that should be added to the heritage attribute list? Kitchener member, Ali Mahmoodi Sahba, in 2025. Condition: Is the building in good condition? Yes *E.g. - Could be a good candidate for adaptive re-use if possible and contribute towards equity-building and climate change action. Indigenous History: Could this site be of importance to Unknown Indigenous heritage and history? *E.g. - Site within 300m of water sources, near distinct topographical land, or near cemeteries might have archaeological potential and indigenous heritage potential. Unknown Could there be any urban Indigenous history associated with the property? * Additional archival work may be required. Page 280 of 282 Function: What is the present function of the subject Commercial property? * Other may include vacant, social, institutional, etc. and important for the community from an equity building perspective. Diversity and Inclusion: Does the subject property No contribute to the cultural heritage of a community of people? Does the subject property have intangible value to a No specific community of people? * E.g.- Waterloo Masjid (Muslim Society of Waterloo & Wellington Counties) was the first established Islamic Center and Masjid in the Region and contributes to the history of the Muslim community in the area. Notes about Additional Criteria Examined See architectural description drafted by Heritage Kitchener committee member, Ali Mahmoodi Sahba, in 2025. Recommendation Does this property meet the definition of a significant built heritage resource, and should it be designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act? (Does it meet two or more of the designation criteria?) N/A Unknown No Yes If not, please select the appropriate action for follow-up Keep on the Municipal Heritage Register Remove from the Municipal Heritage Register Additional Research Required Other: General / Additional Notes TO BE FILLED BY HERITAGE PLANNING STAFF: Date of Property Owner Notification: Page 281 of 282