Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched a design-and-build competition to rehabilitate 24 Sussex Drive, the official residence of Canada's prime minister, which has been described as a 'national embarrassment' due to its deteriorating condition.
Competition details
The announcement was made on June 26, 2026, during a press conference in Ottawa. Carney stated that the competition aims to find innovative and cost-effective solutions to restore the historic building, which has been unoccupied since 2015 due to extensive repairs needed. The project is expected to cost between $30 million and $50 million, according to government estimates.
“This is about restoring a symbol of our democracy,” Carney said. “We need a residence that reflects the dignity of the office and the values of Canadians.”
Background on the residence
24 Sussex Drive, built in 1868, has served as the official residence of prime ministers since 1951. However, decades of neglect have led to structural issues, including a leaky roof, outdated electrical systems, and asbestos contamination. A 2021 report estimated that $36 million in repairs were needed to make the building safe and functional.
“The state of 24 Sussex is a national embarrassment,” said Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault. “This competition will ensure that the restoration is done right, respecting its heritage while modernizing it for the future.”
Timeline and next steps
The competition will be open to Canadian architects, engineers, and construction firms. Submissions are due by September 2026, with a shortlist announced in December. The winning design is expected to be selected by mid-2027, with construction potentially beginning in 2028. The government has allocated $10 million in the current budget for the initial phase of the project.
Opposition critics have questioned the cost and timeline. Conservative MP Pierre Poilievre called it “another Liberal boondoggle,” arguing that the money should be spent on healthcare and housing. However, Carney defended the project, saying it is a necessary investment in Canada's heritage.
The announcement comes amid broader discussions about the future of official residences in Canada. Rideau Hall, the governor general's residence, recently underwent a $15 million renovation, while the prime minister's summer residence at Harrington Lake is also in need of repairs.
