In 2010, ERA was retained by ARK Inc. as Heritage Consultant for the adaptive reuse and integration of the Thomas Wilson House (1889–1890) into a modern-day facility for mental health and wellness.

The conservation approach included the retention and restoration of the original portion of the Thomas Wilson House, and the removal and replacement of the rear addition with a modern three-storey building to meet program needs.

ERA’s scope included the preparation of a Heritage Impact Assessment Report and Conservation Plan, and leading the heritage architectural scope through approvals, demolition, stabilization, and construction.

The conservation scope included restoring all the elaborately detailed woodwork on the balconies and sleeping porch, masonry repairs and repointing, and new wood windows throughout. Our work also included a colour study to determine the most appropriate version of ‘ox blood red’ for painting all the wood elements.