The Restoration Begins

Timothy Bullinger of Arca 3 Design Studio contacted Fremar Construction regarding a major project. Bullinger's longtime client, Harmal Rayat, owner of Talia Jevan Properties, Ltd., had hired him to perform a restoration on one of its properties, Vancouver's historic Leckie Building, and Bullinger needed Fremar's expertise to complete the job.

Returning to the Past, Preparing for the Future

Built between 1903 and 1913, this building was originally home to the J. Leckie Co., a prominent boot and shoe manufacturer founded by one of Vancouver's pioneer heritage families. Fremar's objective was twofold: to perform a seismic upgrade while working within the guidelines of the Gastown Historical Society to restore the building's historic facade.

Facade

Fremar's stunning restoration returned the Leckie Building's facade to its historic glory. Extensive environmental decontamination work was required, including removal of asbestos and the stripping of all lead paint. The wooden window frames were completely rebuilt and the entire building was re-mortared.

Cornices and Parapets

The building had deteriorated severely over its century of existence, particularly the cornices and parapets, which were in danger of falling off. Working closely with Arca 3, Fremar utilized a combination of innovative engineering and specialized construction techniques to stabilize the structures and bring the entire building up to modern seismic standards.