Kasian Architecture, in collaboration with Moriyama Teshima Architects as Regenerate 344, received a 2026 North American Copper in Architecture (NACIA) Award for the West Memorial Building Rehabilitation in Ottawa.
The award by Copper Development Association (CDA) recognizes outstanding use of architectural copper and exceptional craftsmanship. The project demonstrates how heritage restoration and contemporary design can come together to celebrate the enduring beauty, performance, and sustainability of copper.
Part of Ottawa’s Judicial Precinct, the West Memorial Building is a seven-storey federal heritage landmark occupying an entire city block along Wellington Street. Clad in stone and connected to the East Memorial Building through the historic Memorial Colonnade, the complex was built to honour Canada’s World War II veterans and to support their reintegration into the workforce.
Vacant since 2008 and never fully renovated, the building required a complete rehabilitation to meet contemporary needs while preserving its cultural significance.
Central to this work was the renewal of the building’s copper roofing and associated assemblies, with new sheet copper fabricated and installed using traditional batten-seam detailing. Custom copper flashings, parapet caps, and coping details were crafted to resolve complex roof geometries and transitions, with lead-coated copper used at stone interfaces to ensure long-term material compatibility.
Copper finials were carefully replicated from original details, while discreet custom bronze snow guards were incorporated to address snow-retention requirements without detracting from the roof’s historic character. The dormers were fitted with custom louvers designed to meet ventilation requirements and integrate seamlessly within the building’s architectural language.
The work was executed to an exceptional standard of craftsmanship, with meticulous attention to detail and technical resolution. Original, complex curved profiles were expertly replicated, along with jointing and ornamental details, using traditional techniques. Carefully considered refinements were introduced to improve performance, durability, and long-term resilience. The resulting work demonstrates a high level of craft and technical expertise, supporting both the building’s heritage character and its ongoing contribution as a prominent federal landmark.
