Description of Historic Place

The Nanaimo Federal Building overlooks the harbour in Nanaimo’s central business district. The building comprises of a bold series of interlocking geometric shapes anchored to the site by the dominant, asymmetrical clock tower. A large, two-level, flat roofed structure, it incorporates stonework, brick and glazing. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

Heritage Value

The Nanaimo Federal Building is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental values.

Historical Value:
The Nanaimo Federal Building is associated with the program initiated by the Federal Department of Public Works to consolidate and improve federal government services across Canada. The decision to erect a relatively large federal building confirmed Nanaimo’s position as an important service centre on Vancouver Island.

Architectural Value:
The Nanaimo Federal Building is a good example of the International Style as interpreted by the Federal Department of Public Works in the 1950s and 1960s. The style is expressed through geometric shapes, minimally applied decoration and the vocabulary of building materials used, such as glass, concrete brick and stone.

Environmental Value:
Located on a main thoroughfare, the Nanaimo Federal Building reinforces the present character of the city’s central business district. The building is also a familiar landmark on the city’s waterfront.

Sources: The Nanaimo Federal Building, 60 Front Street, Nanaimo, British Columbia. Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office Report 98-028; Federal Building, 60 Front Street, Nanaimo, B.C. Heritage Character Statement 98-028.

Character-Defining Elements

The following character-defining elements of the Federal Building should be respected.

Its standard International Style design and good quality materials and craftsmanship for example:
-the flat-roofed, two-storey rectangular form and massing, and the windows at two levels;
-the three differing facades, with their polished granite columns, the smooth andesite exterior walls, aluminium window surrounds, and glass;
-the stylized clock tower with its regular arrangement of window openings;
-the glass and anodized aluminium curtain wall of the rear elevation;
-the open layout of the public areas of the main floor.

The manner in which the Federal Building reinforces the character of Nanaimo’s central business district and waterfront as evidenced by:
-its prominent downtown, waterfront setting; and,
-its profile as a community landmark.