The Frontenac Club: Kingston’s Boutique Hotel
Located at 225 King Street East in the heart of downtown Kingston, the Frontenac Club is a distinctive example of how heritage preservation and modern hospitality can thrive under one roof.
Originally built in 1845, the building has lived many lives–as a bank, a private home, and now, following an extensive renovation, Kingston’s first boutique hotel. Completed in 2020, the transformation added modern amenities, expanded the room count from 16 to 20, and restored the limestone landmark to its rightful place in the cityscape.
Design Team
This achievement was made possible by our talented design team:
Our Client: The Frontenac Club
Operated by Sean Billing, the Frontenac Club has been a part of Kingston’s architectural legacy for generations. The renovation not only revitalized the building, it reimagined what boutique hospitality could look like in a historic setting. The result is a hotel that offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience rooted in local charm, craftsmanship, and comfort.
“Working with Callidus Engineering on the Frontenac Club renovation was a positive and professional experience from start to finish. Their mechanical and electrical designs, ranging from modern HVAC and plumbing systems to upgraded power distribution and lighting, were integral to transforming this historic property into a boutique hotel of the highest standard. As with many historic building renovations, the Frontenac Club presented many challenges through the design and construction phases. Callidus met each one head-on and provided consistent responsiveness and support. It’s been a pleasure working a number of new projects with Callidus since then, and we’re genuinely looking forward to more projects together in the future.” – Bill Anglin, President, Anglin Group Ltd.
A Historic Challenge
Adapting the original 1845 bank and its attached structures–including the 1834 Cartwright House and a wing that once housed a bowling alley–into a modern hotel was a balancing act between heritage and function. The Frontenac Club includes unique elements like a rooftop patio, the Bank Gastrobar and a commercial kitchen, and guest amenities spread across several distinct wings. Each space required dedicated HVAC systems with local temperature control. Fire protection was especially challenging, with a sprinkler system required throughout the heritage structure. Callidus Engineering worked closely with Shoalts and Zaback Architects and the Anglin Group to ensure the building’s character was preserved without compromising performance or code compliance.
Engineering for Elegance
Our team designed a Water Source Heat Pump (WSHP) system with approximately 30 individual heat pumps tied into a central boiler plant and fluid cooler, providing zoned comfort and efficiency across all guest suites and common areas. In-suite controls were prioritized for comfort, with discreet in-floor electric heating in all washrooms. Plumbing systems were entirely replaced, including new supply and drainage piping, and a new central domestic water heating plant was installed to meet modern hotel demands. The electrical scope included a fully new incoming service and power distribution system—developed in coordination with Utilities Kingston and submitted for ESA review, as well as all-new fire alarm and emergency lighting systems.
Lighting design featured energy-efficient LEDs and controls, carefully integrated into heritage spaces without disrupting the building’s historic fabric. Additional servicing was provided to support the bar, commercial kitchen, and exterior seasonal patio. Due to the building’s complexity and limited documentation, site-specific coordination and routing were handled collaboratively with trades during construction.
Recognized Excellence
The Frontenac Club was honoured with the 2023 Livable City Design Award and the People’s Choice Award, celebrating its impact on the built environment in Kingston. Its success is not only measured in awards, but in the seamless way it blends 175 years of architectural history with the comfort and expectations of today’s guests.
Callidus Engineering is proud to have supported this transformative project–a cornerstone of downtown Kingston that shows how thoughtful design and engineering can bring new life to historic spaces.