Convent gets new life as residence

May 25, 2011

The new Villa Aulneau features a chapel, a cafeteria and common areas. (WINNIPEG FREE PRESS)

After 18 months and $30 million, the transformation of a former St. Boniface convent into a unique seniors' complex is completed.

Friday marked the official opening of The Villa Aulneau, the former convent and chapel for the Oblate Sisters that has been converted into a 157-unit seniors complex for both elderly nuns and lay people.

In addition to the residential units, the extensively remodelled complex at 601 Aulneau St., features a chapel, a large cafeteria and common areas.

The Oblate Sisters, who spearheaded the redevelopment project, were to celebrate today's grand opening with a Catholic mass at 10 a.m., an opening ceremony at 11 a.m., and guided tours beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 21, 2011 B4