The Macdonell-Williamson House built in 1817, is a designated National Historic Site of Canada in Chute-à-Blondeau, East Hawkesbury and a rare surviving example of 19th-century Georgian-inspired residential design. Defined by its classical forms, symmetry, and strict proportions, the house retains its two-storey masonry structure and hipped roof. 

The upper floors have been preserved as an architectural artifact, with original finishes carefully maintained. This project focuses on restoring and conserving the exterior envelope to protect the interior and extend the building’s lifespan. Work includes replacing the cedar shingle roof, including partial replacement and structural reinforcement of significantly deteriorated rafters, repointing masonry walls and rebuilding the chimney with the existing brick, restoring period windows and doors, embedding steel lintels over openings, and replacing the heavily deteriorated dressed lumber window bucks and trims. Accessibility and life-safety upgrades are also integrated, including a new barrier-free ramp and replacement of the fire escape stair. 

Together, these interventions ensure the Macdonell-Williamson House can continue to function as a seasonal museum so future generations are able to experience and learn from this important piece of Canada’s architectural heritage.