The Canadian government has initiated the search for a Canadian team to renovate 24 Sussex Drive, known as Canada’s most famous fixer-upper, to make it habitable for future prime ministers. The recent procurement notice marks the beginning of the long-awaited rehabilitation project, inviting domestic companies to showcase their capabilities.
The government’s document outlines the selection process, with seven finalists to be chosen in the initial stage for the national design competition. The winning team will secure a design and construction contract by fall 2027. Emphasizing the importance of a “world-class design vision,” Ottawa aims to utilize Canadian products to revamp the official residence into a secure and contemporary living and working space for future prime ministers.
The restoration project must be completed by Canadians, utilizing Canadian materials and innovations, as stated in the Request for Qualification (RFQ) issued on August 21. The vacant residence has suffered neglect for over a decade, leading to significant deterioration and the necessity to remove hazardous materials like asbestos, mold, and rodents.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has labeled the state of 24 Sussex Drive as an “embarrassment” and proposed plans to restore the heritage home through a national design competition and fundraising campaign. To date, Canadians have donated over $735,000 towards the $50 million fundraising goal.
The RFQ details the requirements for the competition, including creating private living quarters for the prime minister’s family, space for work and events, and ensuring universal accessibility. The winning team will also handle landscaping, heritage restoration, and potential archaeological assessments and security modifications.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada will evaluate design concepts, while a technical evaluation board at Procurement Canada will assess construction plans, budgets, and schedules. The competition mandates the inclusion of Indigenous people and businesses in at least five percent of the contract’s total value.
The exact cost of the renovation remains uncertain, with the construction budget expected to be disclosed in the next phase of the procurement process, the Request for Proposal. The top competitors will strive to present designs that embody “pride” and “architectural excellence,” aiming for a renewed 24 Sussex that meets contemporary needs and stands as a symbol of Canada for future generations. The Rideau Hall Foundation, leading the fundraising efforts, plans to formally launch its campaign in the near future.
