Blue Cross Head Office



The Blue Cross project is experience of Verne Reimer, when in the employ of Stantec Architecture. Verne was the Architect of Record for the project. Stantec Architecture provided full architectural and interior design services for this two-storey, 1960s building renovation in the heart of Winnipeg. Tower Engineering provided Structural, Mechanical and Electrical Consulting services.

The exterior scope of work involved thoughtful restoration of the International Style architectural details, while updating the building envelope and all building systems to meet and exceed current sustainability and energy efficiency standards. Inside the building, clean lines, a natural colour palate, stone and wood surfaces, indirect lighting and visual access to the exterior – elements typical of the building’s original style – were employed together with contemporary interior elements. Interior glazing was used extensively to ensure natural light is brought deep into the floor plate. The result is an elegant and comfortable office space that maintains flexibility for future growth for the client, while celebrating the client’s image and rich history. This 80,000 SF building renovation cost $13M and was completed in 2006.

The renovation of 599 Empress Street was undertaken as a historic preservation project, incorporating modernist design principles and details. The result is the restoration of one of Winnipeg’s best examples of a classic modernist building, while at the same time providing the client an office space that maintains flexibility for future growth and celebrates their rich history.

The Budget and Project Schedule was controlled by an integrated design process with the Client and Akman Construction (CM) being involved throughout with review/input and recommendations.


Project Profile:

Location: Winnipeg, MB
Architectural: Stantec Architecture
Verne Reimer’s Role: Project Architect
Gross Building Area: 80,000 SF
Completed: 2006
Construction Cost: $13M

2008 Heritage Winnipeg Preservation Award
2008 Prairie Design Award of Merit