The purpose of the Urban Design and Architecture Awards is to recognize and celebrate the immense talent that exists in Hamilton in regards to architecture, planning, restoration and urban design. These individuals and groups are integral to our City’s future and developing a vibrant and sustainable community that we can all be proud of.

Out of 35 submissions, 16 were chosen to receive awards within 10 categories. Awards we’re presented at the gala reception on November 12, 2015 in celebration of World Town Planning Day. The Art Gallery of Hamilton was packed full of Hamilton’s finest architects, urban designers, planners, builders, City officials and university students.

The team at UrbanSolutions prepared a total of four nominations for this year’s awards and were beyond excited for brothers Mike and Dave Valvasori as they took home the award for Excellence in Adaptive Reuse for the Dundas District Lofts project. The transformation of this Collegiate Gothic style school, built in 1929, into modern condominiums is nothing short of extraordinary. Exterior façades were carefully restored to highlight the fine stone detail and carvings of the building, including gothic style ornaments, gargoyles and decorative crests.

Sergio and Matt had the pleasure of leading the Valvasori Properties project team through the necessary planning applications to convert the school to residential condominiums.  Planning Act applications included an Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Application, Site Plan Applications and Draft Plan of Condominium Application.

The team at UrbanSolutions sends a cordial congratulations to all the projects that were nominated as well as the 2015 winnersWe are looking forward to the 2017 awards and a new batch of exciting projects ahead for Hamilton.