News

Kollaard Receives Heritage Award

William Kollaard undertook a personal and professional challenge in his effort to revitalize the dilapidated old co-op building at 210 Prescott St. in Kemptville, Ontario.

The building, dating back to 1802, was originally used as The Blackburn Hardware Store. The building suffered a major fire in the 1940s, and since then the community has been in danger of losing this local piece of heritage.

Kollaard purchased the building, intent on revitalizing the structure to its original form. He began by conducting research through contact with the North Grenville Historic Society (NGHS). From this research he was able to determine the building features necessary to re-establish the architectural integrity of the building.

The rehabilitation job was a suitable one for William, an experienced structural engineer, and his team of engineers at Kollaard Associates. Along with the help of a local architect, trades people, town council and the municipal planning and building department, the building was finally transformed to its original splendour.

"It's remarkable how much Kollaard has maintained the look of this building” NGHS president, David Shanahan stated. "This is an acknowledgement that people have a sense of community".

Kollaard Associates, William’s Engineering Consulting Company is now housed in the revitalized heritage building.

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