The City of Ottawa says that the evaluation committee for a new joint facility shared by Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada has recommended entering into negotiations with the consortium of Diamond Schmitt Architects and KWC Architects.
The committee reviewed 33 submissions from architectural firms from around the world, and a shortlist of five finalists. Following a two-phase procurement process for professional design services that was overseen by an external fairness commissioner, Diamond Schmitt Architects – KWC Architects has been selected to work with the public and partners to design the joint facility, according to a statement issued by city government.
The design development work for the 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.
In 2017, city council and the Ottawa Public Library Board approved partnering with Library and Archives Canada to build a new joint facility to serve as a national institution, a city-wide resource and a community gathering space.
The development will provide the Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada with a state-of-the-art facility. The total project budget, including parking, is $192.9 million.
The facility site is located at the corner of Albert Street and Commissioner St. at the southeastern edge of LeBreton Flats, within 300 metres from the Confederation Line’s Pimisi Station.
The Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada joint facility is expected to open in 2024.