Leaside United Church is a Gothic Revival style church constructed in 1940. The community amalgamated with another church in 2017 and was looking for plans that will inspire the future vitality of the congregation and community. Larkin Architect Limited assisted the church by conducting an extensive building condition review to determine any maintenance backlog and to ensure the ongoing vitality of the existing infrastructure.
After review of a comprehensive feasibility study and an extensive stakeholder engagement process including public presentations, feedback sessions and surveys, key elements were selected. This process allowed the church to address the design elements most in line with their vision and supported by the community they served, thus ensuring best value.
The project was completed in a phased process to allow continuous operation of the facility while construction was completed.
Surrounded by lush trees at the Millwood Rd. and McCrae Dr. intersection, the church wanted to highlight their entrance to exhibit their openness and welcoming community. To address this, a new glass addition was constructed at the administrative entrance, allowing for more transparency through the former existing wood entrance doors.
A ramp at the new main entrance was provided to increase accessibility.
The historic archway was preserved behind the vestibule addition
Concurrent to this process, visioning sessions were held to explore the congregational development plan, and the church ministries and activities to understand how the building could be adapted to make it more flexible, welcoming, and contemporary.
At Leaside United Church, the interior spaces - including the chancel, serveries, and gymnasium - were all renovated while maintaining the unique characteristics of the historic spaces. Small changes in the layout and finishes can result in transformative changes to the overall feel of a space, while also ensuring the original and historic essence are not lost. These renovations support the wide range of community programs including the circus school, childcare center and gymnasium rentals.
Multi-purpose space for gatherings, exhibitions, and community events.