Counter-Monument: Transformation of An Industrial Structure in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Abstract

Industry plays a crucial role and partially constructs the identities of Halifax as a port city in Nova Scotia. The industrial facilities in Halifax possess qualities that help frame the city’s identity. Halifax’s south seaport area was designed exclusively for industrial purposes. It is part of a “terrain vague” space and has a negative impact on the public by creating a sense of disconnection in the city. While the port is still fully functional, the granary and surrounding railways on the site are experiencing a rapid decline in use. Once these industrial structures become inoperative, they have the potential to become a “counter-monument” and provide opportunities for public and cultural benefit. The thesis examines the qualities of Halifax’s industrial structures from a counter-monumentality point of view and discusses the possibility of reconnecting the granary building and surrounding landscape to the public realm by experimenting with reprogramming and design.