Ogle Hall. Photo credit: University of Saskatchewan’s website The Friends of 114 Seminary Crescent have expressed concern regarding the University of Saskatchewan’s recent decision to proceed with the demolition of 114 Seminary Crescent (Lutheran Seminary) and 113 Seminary Crescent (Ogle Hall), as announced in a press release published by the StarPhoenix on April 18, 2025. In response to this decision, the Friends of 114 Seminary Crescent are requesting a pause in demolition and a special meeting with the Board of Governors to discuss other paths forward. The Friends of 114 is a volunteer collective of architects, planners, heritage advocates, community leaders, and citizens committed to preserving and repurposing one of Saskatoon’s most significant heritage assets for the benefit of future generations. The University cited three primary reasons for demolition: finances, safety, and alignment with USask Mission and Strategic Plan. Friends of 114 wishes to offer the following clarifications. In terms of finances, the University claimed “failed attempts to find alternate uses” and cited a new cost estimate of $55–$60 million for restoration. However, Friends of 114 said that as per the Expression of Interest (EOI) guidelines, restoration costs were to be borne by proponents, not the University. Lutheran Seminary. Photo by daryl_mitchell from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada via Wikimedia Commons According to Friends of 114, in November 2024 at a public meeting, USask provided an estimate of at least $26 million for restoration. Independent professional assessments by architects and engineers, following tours of the building, confirmed that the costs would be in the mid-$20s. At least two EOIs submitted strong financial plans demonstrating viability. Respondents were assured the EOI process would be phased, with an initial concept submission (phase 1) followed by detailed budgeting in phase 2. No second phase occurred, and the much higher $55–$60 million estimate was never disclosed to proponents during the process, noted Friends of 114. In terms of safety, the University referenced an order from the Saskatoon Fire Department requiring the building to be repaired and operational by May, and stated that demolition was the only practical and financially viable option for public safety. However, Friends of 114 said that communication with the Saskatoon Fire Department confirmed there were no demolition orders for either building. The Fire Department does not require buildings to be made operational. Both buildings are considered repairable, and current security measures meet requirements to prevent unlawful entry. EOI proponents had also committed immediate resources to enhance safety and security. A letter clarifying this communication was sent to the University’s Board of Governors on April 14, prior to their decision regarding demolition. In terms of alignment with USask’s Mission and Strategic Plan, the University stated that restoration proposals showed “…a lack of purpose for them [restored buildings] that would align with its teaching and research mission” in an email communication received by Friends of 114 members from Greg Fowler, USask’s VP Admin & COO. However, Friends of 114 noted that two known EOIs—one from the Saskatoon Tribal Council for a Centre for Indigenous Excellence, and one from the Saskatchewan Child Advocacy Centre (ASK)—strongly align with USask’s stated goals around inclusivity, Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, and community leadership. According to Friends of 114, both initiatives would strengthen the University’s position as a national leader and leave a lasting, proud legacy.     The post Friends of 114 Crescent oppose USask demolition announcement appeared first on Canadian Architect.