MTBA Associates is very excited to announce that Christopher Warden, Conservation Architect, became a Principal of the firm on November 1, 2018.
Chris started at MTBA as an Associate in 2008. He has over 13 years of experience in the Architecture and Conservation fields. As early as the 6th grade knew that he wanted to be an Architect. This goal followed him through school, and to Carleton University, where he earned both a Master of Architecture (2005) and Bachelor of Architectural Studies (2003). His thesis project focused on a multiplex-mixed use building for one of two major vacant sites on King Street in downtown Brockville – a town in which Chris lived for a few years. Situated across from the former Capitol Theater location, his concept included incorporating the remaining street-front building, to include auditoriums, townhouses and upper floor apartments. His concept also included commercial space with an arcade, restaurant, cafe and a tourism office. In addition to his degrees, Chris holds a certificate in Masonry Conservation (2013) from Willowbank School of Restoration Arts. Chris became a licensed Architect with the Ontario Association of Architects in 2016.
Warden first joined MTBA in an unconventional way – hired on contract to create the MTBA website. From there, he established a great connection with founding Principal, Mark Brandt, and the rest is history! Warden’s first assignment was the remarkable Sir John A Macdonald Project, eventually becoming MTBA’s Project Manager, where for for years he helped lead the Heritage Conservation Architecture of this multiple award-winning project. Chris would grow with the company and become an integral part of MTBA’s tight-knit office team, providing leadership, guidance, and dry humour. He is the lead on several key projects and initiatives of the firm.
Warden’s broadening expertise includes creative reuse of existing heritage buildings, while maintaining their character and value. He has developed significant experience, including knowledge on a range of project types and sizes for residential, commercial, industrial and institutional clients. Chris’ expertise extends beyond the office as well. He is involved with Urban Forum, an Ottawa based lecture series on urban issues. He is a Chair of Docomomo Ontario, the international organization for documentation and conservation of monuments of the Modern movement, focusing on the legacy of Modern-era buildings and landscapes. Chris created, and maintains Capital Modern, a website and blog (and MTBA initiative!) dedicated to Modern-era Architecture in Ottawa that showcases the significance, and the value, of Modern assets in the area.
In addition to his extensive professional expertise and his busy project schedule, Chris is also MTBA’s Computer Guru, continuously updating the office’s technology, while patiently assisting the entire staff with technical difficulties, big and small!
He’s also the staff’s chief ‘Barista’, ensuring the office has quality fresh coffee always available – and therefore helping MTBA meet tight deadlines and manage a heavy workload.
Chris lives in Ottawa with his wife Elizabeth and son Sebastian.
Featured Image: Sir John A Macdonald Building, Ottawa Ontario [Doublespace]
