Sahara Spa - Complete Facility Renewal Moose Jaw, SK

This project is an example of ADA’s award-winning adaptive re-use of a designated heritage site - the Canadian National Railway station which first opened in 1919. It remained a part of CN operations until 1985 when it was permanently closed.

Mechanical, electrical and exterior envelope systems were updated in a manner that has maintained the characteristics of the original building. Complete masonry repointing stabilized the original brick and preserved the beauty of the natural stone copings and cornices.

Where additional structural reinforcement was required, these elements were designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. This is evident at some openings where pre-bent steel plates, fashioned as door jambs, support the existing masonry and reinforce the industrial character of the building.

The program required massage salons, treatment and tanning rooms, a public lounge, and a retail sales and reception area. In particular, the lounge area was designed to take advantage of the large building volume while permitting a warm and intimate experience. Color selections, furniture groupings and careful manipulation of lighting accomplished these goals.

Awards

The Lieutenant-Governor of Saskatchewan Heritage Architecture Excellence Award for Adaptive Re-use