On the ‘Wright’ path to architectural restoration

If you’re a Frank Lloyd Wright fan, there are only two ways to see an original work in Canada. One is to visit a private residence on Sapper Island, near Sault Ste. Marie. The other is to wait a few years for the reconstruction of a lost architectural gem: the Banff National Pavilion. Built in 1914, the Prairie-style shelter was demolished in 1939 after being ravaged by repeated flooding. Now, a team of Ryerson experts led by Department of Architectural Science professor Yew-Thong Leong is creating new construction plans to bring the historic building back to life. The Ryerson team was selected by the Frank Lloyd Wright Revival Initiative from over 30 bids mainly from architecture firms.

But before reconstruction, Leong and his team will search for clues to the pavilion’s exact original location. Hoping to uncover its buried foundation, Leong recently told the Wall Street Journal (external link) , “It’s like Raiders of the Lost Ark.” But unlike archeologists, the Ryerson professors will need to make some changes to Wright’s original drawings to meet today’s building code. Inspired by Wright to pursue a career in architectural science, Leong is committed to preserving the modern master’s unique vision.