Renovated as the interim home for the Senate of Canada, Ottawa’s former Union Station is a masterful example of Beaux-Arts Classicism, both monumental and restrained in its exterior expression. The building is a prominent component of the Confederation Square National Historic Site, located along the ceremonial route of Confederation Boulevard and within the Rideau Canal World Heritage Site’s Buffer Zone.

In a joint venture with Diamond Schmitt Architects, the design team inserted a contemporary language of new volumes, interior and exterior, that both complements and juxtaposes the classical language of the original 1912 central train station. A new addition at the east façade of the Main Entrance Block, originally a shared party wall with the Corry building (since demolished), echoes the rhythm and materials of the west façade, while being distinctly modern in its design approach. The interior decorative program was a unique collaboration between the design team and the Dominion Sculptor, drawing inspiration for the contemporary Canadian design motifs from the rich history of Centre Block and the greater Parliamentary Precinct.

The rehabilitation of this 1912 classified heritage building included all-new mechanical, electrical, life safety, security, and multimedia systems, as well as complete structural seismic reinforcement work, all designed within a framework that corresponds to the Parliamentary Precinct’s vision and guidelines. These unique and complex parliamentarian requirements were met while respecting the heritage and landscape, enhancing the safety and security of the building, and creating an inclusive environment for all users and visitors. The building is 4 Green Globes certified and has won a number of awards as listed below.

Photos by doublespace and Tom Arban.

• International Architecture Award

• AIA Canada Society Award of Excellence

• National Trust of Canada’s Ecclesiastical Insurance Cornerstone Award for Transformative Projects

• OAA Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Design Excellence in Architecture

• OAA Design Excellence Award

• CODAawards Top 100

• Civic Trust Award

• Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Award for Excellence in Conservation

• North American Copper in Architecture Award for Ornamental Application

• City of Ottawa Heritage Award of Excellence

• IIDA Design Excellence Category Finalist