Set within a neighbourhood known for its charm and enduring sense of place, the building stands proudly in the distillery district with its original limestone façade and iconic pillars welcoming visitors much as they did more than a century ago. Inside, the transformation reveals a workplace that feels both grounded in history and thoughtfully attuned to modern needs.

The design team began by reconnecting with the building’s origins through archival photographs and by studying the architectural language of Detroit based Albert Kahn, whose work helped define the region in the early twentieth century. This meticulous research shaped a vision that honoured the soul of the structure while creating a warm, inspiring headquarters for the Aalten Group.

From there, the team turned its attention to the functional needs of the Aalten Group. A comprehensive top to bottom renovation introduced dedicated offices, a boardroom, meeting rooms, expanded workspace on the upper level, and ample storage. Each improvement was thoughtfully integrated to ensure the building’s heritage remained at the forefront.

Northern Wide Plank’s Portage genuine reclaimed oak flooring, sourced from North American century old barns and buildings, was selected for its natural warmth and its ability to feel as though it had always belonged in the building. Its smooth, character rich grain adds depth to the exposed brick walls, steel framed partitions, and restored vault doors.

The flooring became a central design element that elevated each space while reinforcing the authenticity of the architecture. The owners also shared, “It offers easy maintenance, long term durability, and the ability to age beautifully over time. It was a natural choice for our project. Their product quality is unmatched.”

Walnut Creek Design, who prioritizes natural materials, had previously specified the product for the owner’s home, where its durability, stability, and luxury resonated deeply. “Choosing it again was an easy decision that aligned perfectly with the desire for a timeless, inviting interior.”

Restoring a century old structure brought predictable challenges. Damaged plaster, unlevel floors, and restrictive limestone and brick walls required a complete reconstruction of the subfloor along with the addition of radiant heating to support modern comfort. Instead of obstacles, these conditions became reminders of the building’s strength. The final result is a workplace that carries its history with confidence while embracing a refined material palette suited for its next chapter.

This restoration was brought to life through a collaborative effort that united Walnut Creek Design Inc., Architecttura Inc., and the Rosati Group, working closely with the Aalten Group to ensure every detail honoured the building’s history while supporting its new purpose.