Wallis House

Wallis House is a three-story brick building on Rideau Street featuring high ceilings, large windows, and architectural elements blending Queen Anne Revival and Tudor Revival styles. The facade shows details from both periods, making it a notable example of late Victorian transitional architecture.

The building was constructed in 1873 as Carleton County Protestant Hospital, originally serving the region's medical needs. During World War II, it was repurposed for use by women of the Royal Canadian Naval Service, fundamentally changing its function.

The structure shows how Ottawa transformed its medical services, reflecting the shift from small private hospitals to larger centralized institutions. Visitors can see how the architecture documents this change in the city's healthcare approach.

The building is now a residential complex with 47 condominium units in various layouts that reflect different periods of renovation. A rooftop terrace offers views over the Rideau Street area and provides a quiet spot to pause.

The building takes its name from Admiral Provo Wallis, a naval commander from the War of 1812, who was honored when the space was named in 1943. This naming reflects the period when the building served military purposes and was part of Ottawa's wartime infrastructure.

Location: Ottawa

Inception: 1870s

Address: 589 Rideau Street

GPS coordinates: 45.43310,-75.67610

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:22