Building 86

Building 86, also known as the Base Headquarters, is located on a large, open, grassed site, and is a flat-roofed, L-shaped brick building designed in the modern style with elements borrowed from the International Style. It features low, horizontal massing, a flat roof, horizontal bands of windows and the absence of decoration. The designation is confined to the footprint of the building.

Building 86, or Base Headquarters is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental value.

Historical Value

Building 86 is associated with the expansion of the Canadian military force during the Cold War and the accompanying construction program undertaken during the late 1940s and early 1950s to provide training, administration and high-quality accommodation facilities for this expanded force. Building 86 is also associated with the development of the Royal Canadian Armed Forces (RCAF) Station Winnipeg which became the largest aircrew training center in the RCAF during the 1950s, operating air observer and navigation schools at the airbase.

Architectural Value

Building 86 is a good example of the modern style with elements borrowed from the International Style. The composition consists of many elements arranged in a traditional symmetrical plan. It was one of many standard designs commissioned from Canadian architects under the supervision of the Department of National Defence.

Environmental Value

Building 86 reinforces the 1950s character of its military base setting. The building is familiar to those who live and work in the area.

Sources:

Federal Heritage Building Review Office Building Report, 96-075 INF; Heritage Character Statement, 96-075.

The character-defining elements of Building 86 should be respected.

Its modern styling, for example:

-the low, horizontal massing, flat roof, horizontal bands of windows, flat, projecting porticos, and absence of decoration.

The manner in which the building reinforces the 1950s character of its military base setting and is a well-known building at the base, as evidenced by:

-its low, horizontal massing and flat roof, which complement adjacent buildings of similar design;

-its role as the headquarters at the base, which makes it familiar to those who work and live there.