Look up and find 7 of the best ceilings in Manitoba

Posted November 05, 2018 | Author Breanne Sewards

Ceilings have been decorated and adorned for centuries. Indeed, there's something awe-inspiring about standing beneath an intricately designed ceiling that fills your entire vision. And lucky for us, we have quite a few beauties right here in Manitoba. Here are 7 of the best ceilings in the province...

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1. Union Station, Winnipeg

What does Winnipeg's Union Station have in common with New York City's iconic Grand Central Station? They were both designed by NYC architectural firm Warren and Wetmore. Built in 1908-1911, Union Station is an excellent example of the Beaux-Arts style, with key elements such as heroic scale, Tyndall limestone and of course the magnificent dome that centres on the main entrance.

2. Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Resurrection, Dauphin

The Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Resurrection in Dauphin is an incredible and awe-inspiring example of cathedral-style churches that were popping up across the prairies during the Depression. While the church was designed by one of the most legendary church builders of Canada, Father Philip Ruh, the stunning interior was painted by Canadian iconographer Theodore Baran. You can dig further into the symbolism of the paintings on a tour, available upon request.

3. Nonsuch Brewery, Winnipeg

Nonsuch Brewery's newly opened taproom is getting a ton of attention for its design - and rightfully so. Located at 125 Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg, the slick Manitoba-made beer brand has created an amazing interior with a beautifully designed ceiling made up of metallic umbrella light fixtures. NEW this year is a second room with a swanky vibe and a gradient fringe ceiling.

4. Precious Blood Parish, Winnipeg

One of the most unique ceilings on our list comes from Franco-Manitoban architect Étienne Gaboury, designer of the Precious Blood Parish in the Winnipeg neighbourhood of St. Boniface. Rich in religious symbolism, the upward swirl shape of the ceiling and roof represents the act of reaching towards God.

5. Manitoba Legislative Building, Winnipeg

Designed by Frank Worthington Simon, Henry Boddington III and other skilled craftsmen, the Manitoba Legislative Building is one of the most unique buildings in Manitoba. In fact, according to local architectural historian Frank Albo, there's simply no other building like it in the world (if you want to know more about the hidden symbols and meanings of the building, be sure to take the Hermetic Code Tour). And while spectacular and symbolic design is nearly everywhere you look in the Manitoba Legislative Building, it is the Rotunda that hosts the most memorable domed ceiling, which reaches a height of 27 metres and features four panels containing 5 gold rosettes.

6. Catholic Parish Of Lorette

Having previously been called the "Sistine Chapel of the Prairies", it's surprising that the church along the main drag of the bilingual community of Lorette is still relatively unknown. Constructed in the late 1800s, it wasn't until the turn of the century when Quebecois painter Louis-Eustache Monty was brought on board to paint the mesmerizing interior. Today, you can still visit and see the oil paintings that cover the ornate arched ceiling and alter area.

7. Palm Lounge, Fort Garry Hotel, Winnipeg

The restaurant that hosts the last beautiful ceiling on our list also happens to be one of the top places to enjoy a cocktail against a jazzy backdrop. Built in the early 1900s by Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, the Fort Garry Hotel was constructed in 'chateaux' style that emanates opulence and plenty of French ornamentation. This style is reflected in the Palm Lounge, which might just be the grandest area in the entire hotel.

About The Author

Hey! I'm Breanne, Editorial Content Specialist for Travel Manitoba. First to jump in the lake and last to make it down the River Trail. Lover of croissants, cats, and croissant-shaped cats. Got a story idea? Email me at bsewards@travelmanitoba.com.

Editorial Content Specialist