Heritage Projects | Darethion Quinthal Architects

We've spent years getting our hands dirty with heritage work across Vancouver and BC. Every building's got its own story, its own quirks - and honestly, that's what makes this work so damn rewarding. We're not about covering up history with modern facades; we're about respecting what came before while making these spaces actually livable for today.

1912 - GASTOWN

The Bentley Building

This one was a beast. Built in 1912 as a wholesale warehouse, the Bentley sat empty for almost 15 years. The brick facade was crumbling, the original wooden beams were sagging, and don't even get me started on the water damage.

What we found inside though? Original Douglas Fir timbers that were absolutely stunning once we cleaned 'em up. We reinforced the structure, restored the brick using heritage-approved methods, and converted the interior into mixed-use spaces - retail below, office above.

Original Use: Wholesale Warehouse

Current Use: Mixed Retail/Office

Completed: 2021

1905 - YALETOWN

Victory Square Theatre

Theatre restorations are tricky. Everyone wants the vintage vibe, but nobody wants vintage electrical systems or sketchy fire safety. This 1905 beauty had gorgeous plasterwork and an original proscenium that made us all a bit emotional when we uncovered it.

We kept the ornamental ceiling medallions, restored the original seating layout, but upgraded literally everything else. New HVAC hidden in original ductwork paths, modern lighting that mimics gas fixtures, acoustic improvements that don't mess with the aesthetics.

Original Use: Vaudeville Theatre

Current Use: Performance Venue

Completed: 2020

1889 - STRATHCONA

Hastings Mill Conversion

Industrial conversions are our jam, but this one had some serious challenges. The old lumber mill had amazing bones - massive timber posts, exposed brick, these incredible iron tie rods - but the structure needed major seismic upgrades.

We added steel reinforcement that's almost invisible, kept all the character elements exposed, and turned it into 24 loft-style residential units. The old mill machinery? We incorporated some pieces as sculptural elements in the common areas.

Original Use: Lumber Processing Mill

Current Use: Residential Lofts

Completed: 2019

1923 - MOUNT PLEASANT

St. Andrew's Parish Hall

Religious buildings have their own set of considerations. The community wanted to preserve the sanctity of the space while making it more functional for modern community programs. The stained glass alone took six months to restore - each panel had to be documented, removed, and repaired by specialists.

We maintained the original Gothic Revival details, restored the cedar shake roof using traditional methods, and carefully integrated accessibility features that don't compromise the historic character. It's still a gathering place, just like it was a century ago.

Original Use: Church Parish Hall

Current Use: Community Center

Completed: 2022

Our Approach to Heritage Work

Every building tells us what it needs. We just have to listen.

Research First

We dig into archives, pull building permits from decades ago, talk to longtime residents. Understanding what a building was helps us figure out what it can become.

Traditional Techniques

Sometimes you gotta do it the old-fashioned way. We work with craftspeople who know lime mortar, heritage carpentry, and period-appropriate finishes inside and out.

Modern Integration

Heritage doesn't mean living in the past. We integrate sustainable systems, modern safety standards, and contemporary comfort without compromising character.

Working with Heritage Designations

Yeah, navigating heritage regulations can be a pain. We get it. But we've been doing this long enough to know the process inside out - from municipal heritage committees to provincial standards.

We handle all the documentation, coordinate with heritage consultants, and make sure every change meets the Standards and Guidelines. It means more paperwork upfront, but it also means your project won't hit unexpected roadblocks halfway through.

Plus, there are often tax incentives and grants available for heritage restoration work. We help clients navigate those too - no point leaving money on the table.

Let's Talk About Your Heritage Project

Why Heritage Restoration Matters

Look, we could build brand new structures all day long. But there's something irreplaceable about a building that's weathered a century of Vancouver history. These buildings are physical connections to our past - they ground communities and give cities their character.

And from a sustainability standpoint? Restoring existing buildings is almost always greener than demolishing and rebuilding. We're keeping materials out of landfills, preserving embodied energy, and reducing carbon footprint.

But honestly, the real reason we do this work is simpler than all that. These buildings deserve respect. They were built by craftspeople who took pride in their work, and if we can extend their life for another generation or two, that feels like time well spent.

Got a Heritage Building?

Whether it's a designated heritage site or just an older building you think has potential, we'd love to take a look. First consultation's on us - we'll walk through, assess what you're working with, and give you honest feedback about what's possible.

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