This project was recognized by the Architect Newspaper for its sensitive restoration of a striking architectural icon from Canada’s centennial in 1967. The new presence has been a major contributor to the redevelopment of Calgary’s high-density Downtown West neighbourhood.

Studio Name: Lemay
Design Team: Grace Coulter Sherlock (lead
Area: Leisure and entertainment
Year: 2019
Location: Calgary, Alberta
Photography Credits: Chan Rin (Vivid Ribbon)
Credits:
Landscape Architect: Scatliff + Miller + Murray Landscape Architects
Structural Engineer: RJC Engineers
Mechanical Engineer: MCW Hemisphere
Electrical Engineer: Mulvey & Banani International Inc.

Other Consultants – firm & type of consultant
Heritage: EVOQ
Civil: Watt Consulting Group
Lighting Design: Gabriel MacKinnon
Costing: Altus Group
Heritage Building Record: Building Conservation Associates
Materials Conservator: Materials Conservation Co
Spec Writing: Book Spec
Commissioning (Design only): CFMS
Interpretive Planning: Anlanda
Archaeology: Tetra Tech
Historical Structural Engineer: Jokinen Engineering
Code: Jensen Hughes
Historians: Harry Sanders & Aimee Benoit
Contractor: EllisDon

Centennial Planetarium of Calgary by Lemay - Sheet3
©Chan Rin (Vivid Ribbon)

With great respect for the building’s heritage character, the revitalization replaces the iconic dome, ceilings and envelope, and creates the ideal canvas for exhibiting artwork in what is now a stunning art gallery.

Centennial Planetarium of Calgary by Lemay - Sheet4
©Chan Rin (Vivid Ribbon)

The project also preserves and showcases original tile floors, mosaics and dropped sculptural acoustic panel ceilings.

©Chan Rin (Vivid Ribbon)

Maintaining the original award-winning architecture while bringing systems up to code, this model of adaptive reuse has given birth to a world-class destination for modern and contemporary art.

Author

Rethinking The Future (RTF) is a Global Platform for Architecture and Design. RTF through more than 100 countries around the world provides an interactive platform of highest standard acknowledging the projects among creative and influential industry professionals.