Originally constructed as the James Avenue Pumping Station in 1906 and decommissioned after over eight decades of use in 1986, the historic 'Pumphouse' in Winnipeg, Canada, was breathed new life into by 5468796 Architecture. Now a vibrant mixed-use development, the structure, lying dormant for about 20 years, proves to be a remarkable development bringing together adaptive reuse and urban renewal. Following several failed redevelopment attempts and in the face of impending demolition, the Canadian architecture studio was able to creatively address the challenges posed by the site's heritage, budget constraints and urban context to create a successful prototype for a modern city-building rooted in history and place.

Built to enhance Winnipeg's water supply system—and particularly to strengthen fire control when urban fires posed significant threats to cities—the James Avenue Pumping Station's robust machinery, designed to last, became a defining feature of the site. However, after its closure, the station fell into disrepair and was viewed as an obstacle to upcoming urban development in the area.

“The biggest challenge was to ensure that the new buildings contrasted with the existing structure and yet felt like they belonged. The design approach for the new buildings uses the same or analogous construction techniques as the original, resulting in a collection of artefacts intended to remain timeless,” states Sasa Radulovic, founding partner at 5468796 Architecture, speaking to STIR about the challenges faced in executing this project and the methodologies involved in overcoming them.

5468796 Architecture approached the Pumphouse as a ‘found object,’ integrating new functions into the existing structure while preserving its historic character. The studio’s conceptual design proposal highlighted similar 'hybrid' strategies for repurposing the building. "The new buildings surrounding the pumphouse are spaced away but not deferential to the historic structure. Almost everything found on the site remains in its original state - from the building itself to the machinery inside, to the patina and, in some cases, grime that had accumulated over the century. Lightweight bridges connect the new structures, allowing the historic pumphouse to remain ‘apparently’ intact within the new context. This new context, in turn, makes the pumphouse a centrepiece of the project, giving both functional and spatial meaning to the surrounding buildings, which respond to the ‘found object’ through their massing, articulation, materiality and colour,” the Canadian architect continues.

Two critical interventions—a 'Floating Floor' and a zoning amendment—made the fateful Pumphouse project's conception feasible. Expanding on the latter, a zoning amendment permitted the construction of two residential blocks adjacent to the heritage building. This strategic addition not only enhanced the financial viability of the project but also worked towards reinstating the original industrial streetscape that characterised the area. Additionally, the project's first phase involved leveraging the original gantry crane structure in the pumping station to support a mezzanine-like suspended floor system above the pump hall. By doing so, the architects allowed for a unique spatial experience that showcased and celebrated the historic equipment that once drove the building. This design choice further allowed the influx of natural light while maintaining the visibility of the original machinery. It preserved the integrity of the building and provided an economically viable space for commercial tenants. These opportune interventions were thus pivotal in transforming a dormant site into a dynamic mixed-use development that integrates office spaces, hospitality venues and rental apartments.

The architectural language of the Pumphouse could largely be stated to reflect its industrial heritage while embracing modern design principles. New skylights enhance interior brightness and create a welcoming atmosphere. The commercial spaces maintain an industrial aesthetic with exposed steel studs and efficient glazing systems that reduce construction costs and embodied carbon. Energy efficiency and embodied energy become integral parts of the design.

The building was also renovated by adding a secondary envelope within the original walls, using the existing uninsulated structure as a defence against the elements within, creating a low-tech ‘double skin’, thereby minimising insulation needs and optimising the HVAC system for commercial spaces. The new building is designed to exceed the Canadian National Energy Code, featuring highly insulated envelopes and energy-efficient windows. The design seems to operate on an absolute minimisation principle for material and structure, instead maximising structural spans and simplifying connections. Guardrails were minimised to 1mm thick perforated metal, reducing weight and material use.

Highlighting the importance of energy efficiency and embodied energy, Radulovic says, “The most sustainable building is the one that is already built. Preserving and reimagining existing structures is probably the best way to intensify our cities without compromising our future through waste and disregard for embodied energy. Heritage can be preserved in various ways, but we should always remind ourselves that it takes a long time to create memories that take us to places and foster a sense of belonging—something heritage buildings have already achieved.”

The residential buildings are elevated on columns echoing the gantry crane structure, allowing a clear sightline to the historic pumping station. The structures use Nail Laminated Timber (NLT) technology for their floors and ceilings, drawing from traditional warehouse construction methods prevalent in Winnipeg’s Exchange District. This choice honours local architectural history and contributes to sustainable building practices.

A key feature of the Pumphouse is its emphasis on pedestrian connectivity. The layout creates new pathways between residential units and the heritage site, fostering community interaction. Outdoor amphitheatres and public plazas encourage social engagement while respecting human scale and accessibility.

The design incorporates open-air egress routes that transform typical apartment corridors into vibrant exterior passageways, promoting neighbourly interactions and enhancing residents' quality of life. The north and south elevations are earmarked by these open-air stairwells that offer elevated and dynamic views of the surrounding cityscape.

The project is, in many ways, a standout that garnered broad community support from neighbouring condominium complexes and local historic preservation committees. The successful integration of diverse housing types within a historically significant context demonstrates how thoughtful design can bridge the old and the new, contributing to creating a more cohesive urban fabric. 5468796 Architecture's commitment to ‘creative opportunism’ is also evident throughout this project. Their ability to navigate complex civic requirements while maintaining design integrity showcases their innovative approach to architecture in challenging environments.

Project Details

Name: Pumphouse
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Client: Alston Properties
Architect: 5468796 Architecture
Landscape Architect: Scatliff + Miller + Murray
Structural Engineer: Lavergne Draward & Associates
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: MCW Consultants
Civil Engineer: MCW Consultants
Surveyor: Barnes & Duncan
Building Code Consultant: GHL Consultants
Energy Consultant: Footprint
Year of Completion: 2024