The restoration of an historic Edmonton landmark is complete.
The city officially reopened the Ortona Armory in central Rossdale on Thursday.
The 110-year-old facility has been used as rented studio space for artists and art groups for 30 years.
The city declared the red brick building a municipal historical monument 20 years ago.
Renovations to the Ortona Armory, which was vacated by its tenants five years ago and closed for two years for construction, brought it up to date with building codes while preserving its historic aspects, according to a city news release Monday. Work included removal of hazardous materials, restoration of windows and interiors, extensive foundation upgrades, and replacement of mechanical and electrical systems.
An elevator and new covered courtyard, new utility hookups, and new lighting and landscaping were also added.
Mayor Amarjeet Sohi said Thursday the city is “very proud” of artists who call Edmonton home and strives to support them through efforts such as providing creative spaces like the one in Ortona.
“They bring so much creativity to our city, but are also an engine of economic growth,” Sohi said. “(They) make Edmonton an attractive place to live, continue to make Edmonton their home, but also attract talent to our city.”
Arts Habitat organizes programs and rents and books creative spaces to artists at the Ortona Armory
Throughout its history, the building served several purposes, including as a warehouse and stables for the Hudson's Bay Company, as an arms depot for military and cadet training, and as the home of the Ortona Gymnastics Club.