Central Library and Archives, Ottawa Building Project, Canadian Architecture Images

Central Library and Archives in Ottawa

Public Building in Canada design by Diamond Schmitt Architects and KWC Architects

16 Nov 2018

Central Library and Archives

Design: Diamond Schmitt Architects and KWC Architects

Location: Ottawa, Canada

Diamond Schmitt Architects/kwc Architects Preferred Proponent for Ottawa Central Library and Archives

The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) and Library and Archives Canada (LAC) have recommended Diamond Schmitt Architects and KWC Architects design their joint facility for a new central library and archive.

Aerial view of LeBreton Flats site (right foreground) for the library and archives. Photo Norm Li

The selection was announced today following a review of 33 submissions from architectural firms from around the world, and a shortlist of five finalists.

The Parliament Buildings and the rejuvenated National Arts Centre (2017, Diamond Schmitt Architects) in the foreground. Photo Tom Arban

“It’s exciting to see that the recommended architectural team has a track record of design excellence on social, cultural, and educational buildings,” said Tim Tierney, Chair, Ottawa Public Library Board. “Ottawa’s new central library will be an essential public space, and a key destination for generations to come. A place where together we can gather, learn, read, play, be challenged, connect, and relax.”

3. View of the Parliamentary Precinct with the former train station (foreground) to become the interim home to the Senate of Canada in 2019, a project by Diamond Schmitt Architects in joint venture with KWC Architects. Photo Ottawa Tourism

Subject to successful negotiations and final approval of the contract, the design development work for this major civic building will kick off with a public event. Public engagement and consultations will be integrated into the design process, which is expected to begin in early 2019.

“This facility will be a unique, state-of-the-art destination combining the creative services of a public library and the public services of a national library and archives, said Don Schmitt, Principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects.

The chosen site is the southeastern edge of LeBreton Flats, an evolving area along the Ottawa River adjacent to downtown. “This prominent location is an important crossroads both from historical and contemporary perspectives which underscores and values the expanding role of public libraries and access to archives this facility will provide,” added Gary McCluskie, Principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects.

The rejuvenated National Arts Centre and digital screen on Kipnes Tower (2017, Diamond Schmitt Architects) above new entrance. Photo Doublespace Photography

The Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada joint facility is expected to open in 2024. The total project budget is $192.9 million.

Diamond Schmitt and KWC are working in joint venture on the transformation of the Government Conference Centre, formerly Ottawa’s central train station, to become the interim home of the Senate of Canada, to open in 2019. Among Diamond Schmitt’s other projects are Robarts Common, the expansion of the largest academic library in Canada at University of Toronto; Red River College Innovation Centre in Winnipeg; and Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts & Sciences in Texas.

Ottawa Central Library and Archives images / information received 161118

Diamond Schmitt Architects

Location: Ottawa Public Library, Ottawa, Canada

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