Special to Ontario Construction News
Lansdowne Children’s Centre for child development has selected Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc. for its new, expanded facility in Brantford that aims to better meet growing demand for its services.
Appointment of the Toronto-based architecture firm following a competitive process represents an important next step in transforming a long-standing vision into a tangible reality, the centre said in a statement.
“Selecting our architect is an exciting and meaningful milestone for Lansdowne,” said Lansdowne Children’s Centre executive director Rita-Marie Hadley. “This moment reflects years of planning, collaboration, and advocacy, and it brings us one step closer to creating a space that truly supports the children and families we serve.
“We are deeply grateful for the commitment of the Ontario government and for the incredible work of our Capital Steering Committee in moving this project forward.”
Plans call for a three-storey, 100,000-square-foot facility with a ground level entry, green spaces for accessible outdoor recreation programs and services, large group therapy rooms and a therapy pool.
“Montgomery Sisam Architects are excited to be working with Lansdowne Children’s Centre on this transformational project,” said Montgomery principal Santiago Kunzle. “The new building represents an incredible opportunity to create an inspiring, purpose-built space that’s family-centred, community-focused, and responsive to evolving needs.”
Since 1974 Lansdowne Children’s Centre has provided specialized assessment, therapy, and support services to infants, children and youth with physical, developmental, and/or communication needs. It provides services across Brantford in southwestern Ontario, the counties of Brant, Haldimand and Norfolk, Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
A new Lansdowne Children’s Centre will expand support beyond the more than 3,600 children and youth currently served in Brantford and the surrounding areas, providing better access to services such as speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, autism services, audiology and respite services. The centre, which also has sites in Caledonia, Dunnville and Simcoe, has seen demand beyond its capacity and has outgrown its current 25,000-square-foot facility.
The new building with an estimated $100 million cost is being supported by public fundraising and Brantford city council, which has pledged $2 million over five years.
The Ontario government in early 2024 said if would fund planning work for the development.
