While construction workers and cleaners laboured to complete the Hudson before residents move in next week, the builders of the multi-million dollar heritage restoration took time yesterday morning to celebrate the project’s grand opening.

Assorted media tour a two-level suite at the north-west corner of the Hudson. Finishing work was done by Ceccone Simone and Evoke International Design. Photo © VibrantVictoria.ca.

Bob Pearce, Townline’s Director of Residential Development explained to the assembled media contingent how the project unfolded from the initial purchase of the old Hudson’s Bay Company department store in 2005, the lengthy approval process at City Hall all the way to the impending residential move in date for the 152-unit building.

City of Victoria heritage planner Steve Barber said the Hudson will “spark a rejuvenation of the Downtown core” and hoped that the Hudson will spur further work that will strengthen Downtown’s position as the centre of the region.

Graham Fligg of Merrick Architecture and principal Hudson architect demonstrates the vintage bronze hardware on Hudson's refurbished windows. Mike Kozakowski of SkyscraperSource Media and Paul Merrick look on. Photo © VibrantVictoria.ca.

Architect Paul Merrick took time to explain what made Victoria unique: “[The city] grew before the automobile spread everything around”, and that the “tightly organized” urban grid, hemmed in by water on three sides and Saanich to the north meant downtown Victoria escaped much of the car-frendly sprawl that mars other cities.

Asked how the firm tackles the tricky topic of integrating modern construction within a heritage renovation, Merrick explained that the architect must listen to fabric of the building–what is is capable of and how far it can be pushed.

Hudson's roof includes private decks, a large residents' area including two permanent barbecues and extensive landscaping. Photo © VibrantVictoria.ca.

Initial construction on the original Bay building began in 1913 but wasn’t completed until 1921. An east expansion of the building was done in 1948. The old building’s sturdy foundation and massive support columns are evidence of the architects original intent to construct an eight-storey building. The Hudson’s common area displays many salvaged artifacts from the old department store, including neon lettering from the parkade and pressure gauges from the old boilers. The Hudson is now heated with geo-thermal technology.

Bob Pearce apologized for the absence of the much-talked about amethyst-coloured glass prisms due to be installed in the sidewalks surrounding the Hudson. Pearce says the Florida firm making the blocks was supposed to deliver them this summer but production was delayed. He hopes to have them installed in a few weeks.

Follow the Hudson’ progress on VibrantVictoria’s discussion forum by clicking here.

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