Renovation/Addition
The Trenton RCAF Aviation Museum acquired and restored a Halifax bomber for its collection. With a wingspan of 105 feet, the plane was too large for the existing facility, which was built in the 1940s. Parkin worked with the museum to expand the existing warehouse-style building and create room for the newly acquired prize exhibit. Phasing for the project presented a particular challenge, since the aircraft had to be moved into the building prior to construction being finished. An appropriate stage of construction had to be reached whereby the facility could provide enough protection for the aircraft until project completion. A large opening was required through which to install the bomber. In having such an open-ended space, careful attention had to be paid to forceful winds that could be generated within the structure as a result of the opening.

The new building makes extensive use of natural light in keeping with the aviation theme and creates the effect of an open-air environment for visitors. The extensive glazing also provides an open view of the museum's outdoor exhibits. To showcase the bomber to passersby, the front corner of the building features floor to ceiling glass, which allows a view of the nose of the plane from the exterior. A full galleria surrounding the exhibit space offers visitors a close-up perspective of the aircraft from a higher vantage point, while allowing the museum to optimize floor space for all of the equipment on display. The gray/navy blue RCAF colours are used on the building façades, which have been configured to integrate with the redesigned front of the original building and provide a more modernized look for the overall facility. The new building frees the original exhibit space for its curatorial and archive systems and staff.

Location
Trenton, Ontario

Area
65,000 sq. ft.

Construction Cost
$5 million

Completion Date
2005