Ottawa’s National Arts Centre (NAC) will undergo a $110.5-million expansion and transformation thanks to funding from the Government of Canada. Diamond Schmitt Architects, the designer for the project, will revamp the building to include improved performance and theatre spaces, new wings for presentations and an enhanced entrance.

“The NAC will be transformed from its intimidating and grey presence in the capital to a highly visible and welcome showcase for the very best performing arts for residents and visitors from across Canada and abroad,” says Donald Schmitt, Principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects.

The NAC, located in Ottawa’s Confederation Square, was originally completed in the late 1960s and Diamond Schmitt Architects is redesigning the facility to modernize its architecture while keeping much of the original framework intact. With a focus on transparency, the new entrance will feature a glass marquee tower which will extend the hexagonal shape of the NAC’s original design.

“We are very grateful to the Government of Canada for this major re-investment in the NAC,” said Peter Herrndorf, President and CEO of the National Arts Centre. “The new entrance of the NAC will be warm and inviting, and will embrace the Nation’s Capital for the first time. With this new design we will finally face the city and its most important square.”

Diamond Schmitt aims to have the new entrance completed in 2017 for Canada’s 150th anniversary. For more information on the NAC’s history and the developer’s renovation plans, click here.