Centre Block Rehabilitation

The Story

The Centre Block Rehabilitation is the largest and most complex heritage restoration project ever undertaken in Canada. The work will modernize and preserve the core of the Parliamentary Precinct, including the full restoration of Centre Block, rehabilitation of the 302‑foot Peace Tower, and conservation of 50 heritage spaces and more than 20,000 cultural assets.

A new underground Visitor Welcome Centre will connect Centre Block with the East and West Blocks. This addition will improve accessibility, circulation, and visitor experience while integrating contemporary design with the building’s original Beaux‑Arts architecture. It will also support modern security, operations, and long‑term campus planning.

Project Delivery Details 

A Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) initiative, the Centre Block Rehabilitation is being delivered through a joint venture partnership with PCL Construction. The project involves extensive heritage conservation, major excavation and underground construction, and the modernization of mechanical, electrical, and structural systems to support future operations.

The delivery approach combines traditional heritage craftsmanship with advanced engineering and building technologies. Close collaboration among architects, engineers, heritage specialists, and construction partners ensures that all upgrades respect the building’s historic fabric while meeting modern standards for safety, accessibility, and environmental performance.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a core priority of the rehabilitation, and the project is pursuing LEED Gold and Zero Carbon Building – Design certifications. Both conservation and innovation are key to achieving the sustainability goals, combining high‑efficiency building systems with meticulous repair and reinstatement of heritage materials. Landscape irrigation is planned to be satisfied with rainwater reuse, and new materials used are to be low-emitting and low carbon, where possible. These measures are expected to reduce energy consumption by 75 percent compared to pre-modernization and 35 percent less than an equivalent new building, reduce water use by more than 30 percent, and substantially lower the embodied carbon of the building. The upgrades will significantly improve building performance while preserving the historic character of this national landmark.

Achievements

• Target: LEED Gold and Zero Carbon Building - Design certification 

Images courtesy of PSPC/SPCA