Meticulous upgrade amplifies heritage splendour

Meticulous upgrade amplifies heritage splendour

This project was recognized by the Architect Newspaper for its sensitive restoration of a striking architectural icon from Canada’s centennial in 1967. The new presence has been a major contributor to the redevelopment of Calgary’s high-density Downtown West neighbourhood.

With great respect for the building’s heritage character, the revitalization replaces the iconic dome, ceilings and envelope, and creates the ideal canvas for exhibiting artwork in what is now a stunning art gallery. The project also preserves and showcases original tile floors, mosaics and dropped sculptural acoustic panel ceilings.

Maintaining the original award-winning architecture while bringing systems up to code, this model of adaptive reuse has given birth to a world-class destination for modern and contemporary art.

Awards and mentions

2020
MASI Award - Gold, Institutional and Health Care
Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan Interior Design Awards
2019
Honorable Mention in Building Renovation — Civic
AN Best of Design Awards
2021
Silver Winner, Building Conversion & Recycling (Rebirth Project)
Grands Prix du Design
2021
Silver Winner, Cultural Building
Grands Prix du Design
2021
Resource Conservation – Non-residential
Heritage Calgary