Inclusive and accessible design in Waterloo’s unique landmark building

Written by: Chen Cohen, ARIDO; Camille Ganuelas, ARIDO

The Regional Municipality of Waterloo, in collaboration with the Waterloo Police Service, needed the new Central Division building to accommodate the region’s growing demands, when they acquired the unique 1977 Ontario Court of Justice building.

Interior Designers: Chen Cohen, ARIDO; Camille Ganuelas, ARIDO
Design Firm: DIALOG Ontario Inc.
Photographer: Scott Norsworthy

This existing three-storey concrete structure, designed by John Edwin Lingwood, a prominent architect in the Waterloo Region, exemplifies Brutalist architecture from the 1950s. The design team aimed to honour the historic significance of the building’s exterior while transforming the interior into a modern, welcoming, and inclusive environment. Community engagement, operational excellence, adaptability, workplace quality, sustainability and durability were the main goals we wanted to achieve in this interior.

The new interiors were designed to support the wellbeing of all staff and officers and create a welcoming civic space for the broader community. The interior renovation aligns with the Waterloo Police Service’s vision of a
safe, inclusive, and accessible environment, fostering inter-departmental collaboration and promoting a
healthy work atmosphere for staff of all genders, backgrounds, and physical abilities.

The design for this interior centers around a light-filled atrium that spans all three storeys, featuring a prominent staircase. This atrium not only facilitates navigation through various program spaces but also creates visual connections across all floors and encourages casual interactions among staff.

A key addition is the Community Room on the ground floor, dedicated to hosting community events and gatherings, enhancing WRPS’s engagement with the broader community.

The project introduced an accessible, all-gender locker room and shower rooms. Our design team collaborated closely with the client to create a new approach aligned with WRPS’s vision for supporting female and LGBTQ+ member growth. These all-gender lockers also offer adaptability for future changes in gender ratios.

Overall, the design reflects WRPS’s commitment to community, inclusivity, and operational excellence, resulting in a modern, durable facility that supports both staff and community engagement.