Block 2 redesign clears key milestone in Parliament Hill renewal

July 21, 2025

The NCC’s approval of the 50% schematic design propels the ambitious Block 2 redevelopment forward, uniting heritage, sustainability, and civic purpose in the heart of Ottawa.

The transformation of Ottawa’s Parliamentary Precinct has reached an important milestone. On June 19^th, 2025, the National Capital Commission (NCC) Board of Directors approved the 50% schematic design for the Block 2 redevelopment, progressing one of the most ambitious modernization efforts in the capital’s recent history.

Located directly south of Parliament Hill and bounded by Wellington, Metcalfe, O’Connor, and Sparks streets, Block 2 is being reimagined as a transparent, accessible, and sustainable civic frontage. Once a cluster of aging and functionally outdated federal buildings, the site will be transformed into a vibrant, multi-building complex that houses parliamentary offices, committee rooms, and support spaces, while also integrating retail and public areas that enhance the pedestrian experience.

The winning design, led by Zeidler Architecture in collaboration with David Chipperfield Architects, was selected through an international design competition in 2022. Our design prioritizes heritage conservation and sustainability, with a deep commitment to Indigenous values and inclusive design. The scheme preserves and rehabilitates seven existing buildings, infills two vacant lots, and introduces two new complexes: Block 2 East and Block 2 West. Five of the existing structures are designated heritage buildings, which are carefully adapted and vertically extended to align with the historic fabric and scale of the precinct.

During the NCC board meeting, the proposal was recognized for strengthening the physical relationship between Parliament Hill, the downtown core, and Confederation Boulevard, while enhancing Block 2’s role as a civic destination. Publicly accessible retail areas and a new outdoor plaza facing Parliament Hill have been integrated into the site design. The project’s architectural massing and material expression were praised for their compatibility with the surrounding context and stature of Wellington Street.

As a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine a defining piece of Canada’s capital, the Block 2 redevelopment balances preservation and progress, uniting the parliamentary precinct with a renewed public realm that looks boldly to the future.

You can find links to the approval here:

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