The Church of the Redeemer is an important landmark at the corner of Bloor Street West and Avenue Road. Built in 1879, this historic building was designed in the Gothic revival style. ERA has been working with the church since 2008, when ERA prepared a Condition Assessment and Conservation Plan. Following this, ERA worked closely with the client to develop a multi-phase project, which includes upgrading accessibility, restoring several heritage components of the building, and adding additional features such as new signage and exterior lighting.

The first phase of construction provided accessibility upgrades to the interior of the church. These renovations included a new ramp to access the chancel, new flexible seating with wheelchair spaces, and a new access lift.

Phase two of the project focused on heritage restoration of the building. This work included stabilizing and rebuilding the Church’s iconic open bellcote, restoring the functionality of the bell, and restoring the stained glass windows facing Bloor Street. The first and second phase of construction were completed in December 2015.

ERA has begun planning for the third phase of construction to start in 2016. This will feature accessibility improvements to the exterior of the church, including a redesign of the entrance stairs with steps rebuilt to a comfortable height, continuous handrails, and a larger landing at the church entrance. This phase will also incorporate a new community gathering space outside the church, new signage with flexible technology to allow for different types of messaging, and new lighting designed to provide improved safety while highlighting the building’s unique architecture.