Wellington County Courthouse.
Thoughtfully integrated accessibility and security upgrades that improve a historic courthouse without compromising its architectural character.
Built between 1841 and 1843 as the District of Wellington Court House, the Wellington County Courthouse is the oldest surviving stone public building in Guelph and Wellington County and one of the earliest stone buildings
between Toronto and London.Â
Designed by Toronto architect Thomas Young in the form of a castellated Scottish keep, the building’s stone walls, towers, parapets, roof form, windows, and entrances give it a commanding civic presence. Expanded in
1873 and through subsequent additions, the complex has evolved alongside the region while continuing to accommodate county administration and court functions.
Our scope focused on accessibility and security upgrades within this active, historically layered public facility. The work required contemporary standards for equitable access, circulation, safety, and operational security to be carefully reconciled with the building’s protected heritage fabric.
Through sensitive planning and coordination, new interventions were integrated while respecting the architectural clarity and character-defining elements of the original courthouse. The completed work improved the building’s safety, inclusivity, and functionality, helping this important civic landmark continue serving the community without diminishing the qualities that have defined it for more than 180 years.
In terms of architectural design, our goal was to develop a modern home that visually expressed itself as a single building. A successful design would be able to relate to both generations. The result is a contemporary home, using natural stone as the main material, aluminum, and wood.
Project Facts
Project Year: 2025
Location: Guelph, Ontario
Client: Ministry of the Attorney General
Status: Completed
Budget: $2 Million (CAD)
Services Provided
Heritage Impact Assessment
Heritage Permit Application
Heritage Design Assist
Project Team
Heritage Architect: Boldera Architects Inc.
Architect of Record: 2MK Architects Inc.
The challenge was not simply to introduce accessibility and security upgrades, but to make them feel as though they belong.
Our goal was to improve how the courthouse serves people today while preserving the dignity, craftsmanship and civic presence that have defined it for generations.
ERIC RODRIGUES ARCHITECT
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