Among the family of government structures on Parliament Hill, the Confederation Building sits on the western side of the Parliament. Since its opening in 1931, the building’s exquisite architectural design has captured the attention of tourists and Ottawans alike.
To some, the building may be nothing more than a Canadian federal government office, but its’ neo-gothic architecture has a story to tell.
Homes and businesses were cleared to make room for the Supreme Court of Canada and the Confederation Building.
Construction on the latter commenced with the Governor-General laying the cornerstone on July 1, 1927, part of the celebrations of Canada's Diamond Jubilee.
The office space was initially used by the federal Agricultural Department.
The building is located at 111 Wellington St. and was designed by architect Clarence Burritt. It matches its surrounding governmental neighbours, but is distinctly placed on a corner outside of the Peace Tower.
The building looks across the street at the Bank of Canada, reflecting in its glass windows. As a high-rise building of 13 floors, the building is home to civil servants today and serves as a main office building for MPs.
Characterized by many tiny paned windows, pointed arches, and a ribbed vault noticed from within, the charming building brings character to Wellington Street, where old architecture blends in with the new.
The Confederation Building had an update to its look in 2008 when remodeling began to create more office space. But its exterior stayed true to its original design.