Duff Baby

 

Client: Ontario Heritage Foundation

Project Completion:  1995

 

Conservation of the Duff Baby House, one of Ontario’s oldest structures, began in 1994 following its acquisition by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Recreation for regional office use. Working within a fixed $650,000 budget, repairs included removal of cement/asbestos siding to expose original weatherboards, replacement of deteriorated sill plates with Douglas Fir, foundation stabilization, and hydraulic lifting of the structure.
Site improvements addressed grade issues with new drainage, sidewalks, and a galvanized bridge, while original windows were restored and a historic porch recreated. The building was simultaneously adapted for modern use with a high‑velocity induction HVAC system, a summer‑kitchen‑inspired addition housing a second exit stair, barrier‑free lift, accessible washrooms, and functional office layouts with updated communication infrastructure.