The Wellington Street School

The building at 47 Wellington was originally the Wellington Street School. Designed by John Power in 1873 at a cost of $7,200, it was then the most modern school in the city. After the school’s closure in 1927, uses varied until 1974 when Queen’s University sold the property to Marion and Hans Westenberg, who were strong advocates for heritage preservation. The original school is limestone with some clay brick infill, with many wood frame windows and doors, an asphalt shingle roof, etc. The existing building has a half-level grade at the lowest level along with an attic storey, for a total of three-and-a-half storeys. 

In 2018 the building was developed to create six apartments in the existing school building and eleven apartments in an adjoining new rear addition. Thanks to the care and attention of a local developer who appreciates Kingston’s heritage fabric the building’s heritage character is ensured and will continue to be enjoyed for future generations. The project entitled Faculty 47, completed in 2024, was awarded by the Frontenac Heritage Foundation in 2025. More information is provided in our awards section.