Heritage Renovations
At Just Working Construction, we are passionate about preserving history through heritage renovation projects. Unlike many contractors and developers who might shy away from old properties, we embrace the challenge of restoring these historical sites, uncovering their stories, and revitalizing them for future generations. Here are some notable examples of our heritage renovation work:
The Paisley Mill
This 150-year-old, all-wood structure in Paisley stands as the largest heritage grist mill in Ontario. Just Working Construction elevated the historic mill’s sagging floors by five inches and renovated the mill run beneath it. We transformed the building into a three-part residence for short-term rentals and accommodations for friends and family, while preserving its historical essence. The main section includes two stories of meticulously renovated rooms, with five stories of repurposing in total. Attached to the main building is a 1.5-story residence for the mill’s owners, and to the right, a separate three-story building. The mill’s owners were committed to honouring its history, repurposing original machinery and structures into functional pieces, such as a kitchen island made from an old flour sifter and a silo converted into a unique shower.
Water Street Addiction Centre
We tripled the size of a century-old house in Downtown Kitchener to create a new space for the Water Street Addictions Centre. The addition was intentionally designed to match the historical details of the original structure, maintaining the building’s historic character. This project highlights our commitment to blending modern functionality with historical preservation. The expanded facility now serves as a crucial resource for addiction recovery in the community. By preserving the building’s historical integrity, we ensure that its legacy continues to support and heal.
Council House for Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nations
The Council House, central to the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation’s territory, has been a pivotal gathering place for over a century, hosting events, meetings, and cultural gatherings. Recognizing its cultural significance, we undertook its restoration to honor the community’s heritage and ensure its legacy for future generations. Our work focused on maintaining the architectural and historical integrity of the building while addressing its aging structure. The project was a collaborative effort, reflecting the values and traditions of the Mississaugas, and involved significant community input and resources. Just Working Construction was selected for our expertise in heritage renovations and our understanding of the project’s cultural importance.
For further reading
Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation – Restoration of the Council House
The Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation, located in southern Ontario, is a vibrant community with a rich history and cultural heritage. Among its many landmarks, the Council House, originally opened on September 15, 1882, stands as a symbol of unity,...
Reconstructing an Old Mill: Championing Social Development in New Hamburg
What does energy-efficient construction and design have to do with social development? Jeff knew he was in the right place when he attended the Passive Housing Initiative US (PHIUS) conference this fall. The conference was about more than just energy-efficient...
Get Your Heritage Renovation Project Started
If you have a piece of history that needs preservation or revitalization, please contact us to discuss the possibilities.


