Location: London, ON
Client: Indwell
Architect of Record: Invizij Architects Inc
The War Memorial Children’s Hospital, a four-storey masonry building constructed between 1921 and 1922, stands as a significant historical structure in London, Ontario, closely associated with the former Victoria Hospital campus. As one of the few remaining buildings from this site, it preserves the historical essence of medical services that once thrived there.
Currently, the area is undergoing redevelopment by the SoHo Alliance, which plans to create 680 new homes. As part of this initiative, the War Memorial Children’s Hospital and the Health Services Building are being rehabilitated by Indwell.
Architecturally, the hospital exemplifies Neoclassical style, showcasing elements like a grand façade, a prominent entrance framed by four tall pilasters, decorative urns, and triumphal wreaths, all underscoring its commemorative purpose. The building received a heritage designation in 2022.
In 2023, Indwell successfully raised $3 million for the project’s rehabilitation, which includes low-energy building retrofit designs that align with Passive House standards. The redevelopment will feature 42 supportive housing units, common areas, staff offices, and a rooftop terrace, while preserving its historic masonry façade and installing 144 triple-glazed heritage replica windows. Construction is set to commence in Fall 2024.
Photos taken from the heritage report done by Nancy Tausky or the Health Sciences collection.
