Accessibility and Renewal - Part II

An accessible entry was required for this historical church in Toronto's west end.  St. Anne's Anglican Church was built in 1908, though at that time access for those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs was not a consideration.  A new ramp, steps, and glazed entry doors comprised the exterior portion of the project.

 

The design objective was to create a gently sloping ramp with accompanying steps at the side of the church closest to the parking lot while respecting the existing character of the building.  Until recently, a 1:12 slope has been considered acceptable within accessible design guidelines - however this ramp is at 1:20, which is much more comfortable for a broader spectrum of users.  Planters beside the ramp and steps, awaiting greenery, will enhance the entry experience.  The distance between grades allowed for handrails without solid guards, hence one can see through to the historical facade.

Other accessibility features include a detectable warning surface at the top of the steps with a grid of stainless steel buttons, and textured inserts at the tread nosings.  The new bronze coloured double doors are asymmetrical to conform to width requirements.  As users we typically don't think too much about pushing a button for entry, but the various scenarios involving manual entry, emergency exiting, push button entry / exiting and security means that the electrical components connecting the push buttons, door operator, latches and panic hardware for these doors are fairly sophisticated. 

This small renovation, including the new accessible washroom within, gives this building the ability to accept the broadest spectrum of people, thereby increasing its purpose and usefulness.

Structural Engineer: Blackwell Engineering

Mechanical and Electrical Engineer: MMM Consulting Group

Contractor: DJ McRae Contractors