All photos by Karen McRae

This building appeals to my minimal side.  Simple clean lines, interesting details and a blending of interesting materials, and it seems I have a growing fondness for cement. It was completed in 2010 in Almonte, Ontario and houses a hydro electric power generating station.

Almonte is a beautiful and historic mill town and it’s apparent that the project designers took this into consideration. The design although largely poured cement includes a nod to the many stone mill buildings in the area. It’s quite beautiful in the evening light and I like the way it’s integrated into the landscape.

Speaking of landscaping I’m a fan of the open cement paving stones leading up to the building. These prevent runoff allowing rain water to pass through to the earth, perhaps a nod to the water passing through the structure itself. Don’t you just love details?
Architect: Richard A. Limmert

If you are interested in the actual project and whats going on inside this building there is an extensive detailing of the construction here: http://www.mississippiriverpower.com/lowerfalls.aro