From modest student projects to large Starchtect-designed developments, grain silos are a rich source of inspiration for architects around the world. The latest example of this is the nearly 100-year-old disused grain terminal in Collingwood, Ontario, which is slated for a very ambitious conversion into a hotel and residential building.
The Collingwood Grain Terminals building was constructed in 1929, pouring concrete over 30 days in May for 13 consecutive days, reaching a maximum height of 180 feet (about 54 m) above the wooden structural framework. After 64 years of use in storing and sorting Canadian grain, he ceased operations in 1993 and was purchased by the town four years later.
Transforming such a large old structure into a hotel or residence is extremely difficult and would require addressing safety issues such as falling concrete, roof damage and structural issues. Needless to say. a lot of pigeon droppings. Windows should be installed in the concrete façade to bring natural light inside and significantly improve accessibility.
It’s just getting started, but the initial plan calls for the tubular silos themselves to be used as hotel rooms, with one silo being used for the small room and two silos being used to form the larger room. increase. The thin rectangular area above the silo is a grain storage that will be transformed into a public accessible area with a restaurant, outdoor terraces, greenery and stunning views of the local landscape. (another tower now stands in its place, which will be demolished).
Trams and Dreams
The project, led by Streetcar Developments and Dream Unlimited Corp, is part of a larger development effort in Collingwood’s waterfront area, which will also include housing, retail space and a boardwalk.
“Highlights of this proposal include the redevelopment of Heritage Drive and significant enhancements to public areas, the preservation and adaptive reuse of the Terminal, including Access, a full-service hotel, restaurant and event space, and the residential component of the East Side. Terminals,” Collingwood Council explained. “Enhancement of the public areas of the concept will revitalize the harbor front year-round, including access to shoreline/water, trails, observation decks and promenades, public spaces for retail, and most notably, the proposed terminal It is about introducing public access to the building itself in a way that has never been possible before.”
No word yet on when Collingwood Grain Terminals will be completed.
Source: Engage Collingwood
