Buildings Historical Significance
120 Holland Avenue was built in 1956 and originally known as ‘The Laura Secord’ building. The retail/office building was originally two stories and the chocolate store became an iconic storefront in the village of Westboro. In 1965, an additional three stories were added to increase office space.
The architectural merit of this structure is inspired by the Art Moderne era as depicted in the central curved corner, large windows and yellow brick.
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Offices at 120 Holland in 1962:
Greater Ottawa City Directory September 1962 “Might Directories Limited Publishers”
120 Welsley Building
Dow Brewery (ont) Ltd PA 8-5841
Beneficial Finance Co of Canada PA 8-5896
Metropolitan Life Insurance Co PA 9-2068
Anfossie Frred R dentist PA 8-9195
Braden Leonard R dentist PA 8-8855
Loft Conversion
Routeburn Urban Developments skillfully redeveloped this building into 16 condominium authentic lofts, all the while, preserving the retail space on the floor level. Although 120 Holland is not a heritage designated building, it is evident that maintaining the original character was central to their design. For example, the authentic windows were resorted and cleaned for reuse in the loft conversion process.
Each loft in this conversion is a corner unit. Some highlighted features include: 10 foot ceilings, expansive windows, open space floor plans, and chic exposed duct work.
The building remains a community landmark aptly named, “Real Lofts” yet commonly referred to as the “World of Maps Building.”
