Restoring Heritage with Modern Performance: The Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons Window Renewal

In Ottawa’s historic district, the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada stands as a landmark of early 20th-century architecture. Built between 1914-1924 this pale yellow masonry building originally served as a monastery before becoming home to the College in 1991.

The building’s original charm has been carefully preserved through decades of stewardship. Yet as energy standards and performance expectations evolved, its aging windows became a challenge for both preservation and comfort.

Tasked with replacing 27 windows throughout the heritage structure, Ultimate Windows, Doors & More - Ottawa was entrusted to balance architectural integrity with modern efficiency.

A Design Challenge Rooted in History

The Royal College project required a precise approach. Each opening varied slightly in size and depth, and every new unit needed to mirror the original sightlines and proportions of the historic facade. Working closely with architects and facility managers, the Ultimate team led the entire process, from on-site measurement and specification through ordering, delivery, and installation.

“The goal was to replicate the traditional aesthetic as closely as possible while bringing the performance up to modern standards,” explains one of Ultimate’s project leads. “These windows are visible on a prominent heritage building in downtown Ottawa, so authenticity mattered.”

Performance Meets Craftsmanship

To meet those goals, the team selected Marvin Ultimate Aluminum-Clad Wood Windows, known for their design flexibility and proven durability. Each unit featured custom simulated divided lites to match the original muntin pattern, along with laminated glass and LowE3 coatings for optimal insulation and UV protection. The aluminum-clad exterior offers long-term resilience against Ottawa’s freeze-thaw cycles, while the wood interior maintains the warmth and depth of traditional craftsmanship.

The combination of historical detailing and modern engineering resulted in windows that are virtually indistinguishable from the originals but perform to 21st-century standards.

Precision in Every Detail

Heritage restorations often reveal surprises, and this project was no exception. Masonry openings required delicate adjustments to ensure proper fit without compromising the building envelope. Ultimate’s team coordinated closely with trades on-site to manage each step, maintaining clear communication from delivery to installation.

A Renewed Legacy

Today, the restored windows enhance both the efficiency and the elegance of the Royal College building. Visitors and staff experience improved comfort year-round, while the exterior maintains the architectural rhythm that has defined the site for over a century.

For Ultimate Windows, Doors & More, the project reflects what they do best: bringing design, technical expertise, and hands-on craftsmanship together to preserve and elevate Eastern Canada’s most significant buildings.