Client Canadian Mental Health Association

The re-use of a three storey, 23,700 sq. ft. historic mill in downtown Hamilton includes program, outreach, office and interview spaces for the non-profit social services agency. These new offices speak to our design approach. The initial designs were discarded once we explored the area above the ceilings and inside the walls in the building they purchased, as we found a wonderful 120 year old timber loft hidden behind layers of cheap, thoughtless renovations.

While simple and very economical, careful attention to lighting, colour and finishes created a warm, comfortable, non-institutional setting for clients and staff. Program spaces are open and accessible, while generous daylighting washes the interior spaces, including light wells to bring light deep into the building.