The Staircasein-person Doors Open Hamilton Region

  • In-person
  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Food vendors
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
The Staircase

The Staircase has been a multi-purpose arts incubator for decades. Site of the former Hamilton Hydro Dundurn substation, the 1914 building combines large windows, decorative brick, a large overhanging cornice complete with dentil blocks, and an impressive beaux arts portico. Relay Coffee Roasters provides a friendly café atmosphere. The various performing spaces will have music this year.

The Staircase Theatre is an independent arts incubator under new management as People Under the Staircase. As Hamilton's premier alternative event space, it features live performance, music, video, games and theatre. The building is an adaptive reuse of a former power substation. Formerly known as the Dundurn Station, this 1914 beaux-arts-style building was decommissioned by Hamilton Hydro in 1996. The new venue was named after the cast iron spiral staircase on the interior. The classical detailing and fine craftsmanship of the former station reflects Hamilton’s importance as the Electric City of Canada in the early 20th century. To learn more about Hamilton's innovative electrical infrastructure and its early substations, check out the Power of Design exhibit. And, for Digital Doors Open, check out the video below to learn more about this site.

Contact info

27 Dundurn Street North
Hamilton, Ontario
E-mail: matthew@staircasehamilton.com
https://staircasehamilton.com

Architecture

Year built: 1914; renovated 1996
Building type:Food and drinkTheatre
Architect: Unknown
Architectural style:Beaux arts

Dates/hours open

May 04, 10:00am - May 05, 04:00pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.