The Canadian government has officially begun the search for a Canadian team to renovate 24 Sussex Drive, Canada’s most famous fixer-upper, to make it habitable once again for future prime ministers. A recent procurement notice has been issued, inviting domestic companies to compete for the opportunity.
The government’s Request for Qualification (RFQ) outlines the selection process, which will see seven finalists chosen to advance to a national design competition. The winning team will be awarded a design and construction contract by the fall of 2027.
The RFQ emphasizes the importance of a “world-class design vision” that utilizes Canadian products to transform the official residence into a secure and modern living and working space for future prime ministers. The document underscores the significance of completing the rehabilitation with Canadian materials and innovations.
24 Sussex Drive has been vacant for over a decade as successive prime ministers have been reluctant to invest taxpayer dollars in renovations, leading to its deterioration. Prime Minister Mark Carney has described the state of the residence as an “embarrassment” and launched plans to restore it through a national design competition and fundraising campaign.
The RFQ outlines various requirements for the competing teams, including creating private living quarters for the prime minister and their family, accommodating workspaces and ceremonial events, ensuring universal accessibility, and restoring heritage elements. The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada will oversee the design evaluation process.
Competing firms are mandated to engage Indigenous people and businesses for at least five percent of the contract value. The total cost of the renovation is still unknown, with details expected to be disclosed in the next phase of the procurement process in winter 2027.
Ultimately, the goal is to have a renewed 24 Sussex that meets contemporary needs while remaining a symbol of Canada for future generations. The Rideau Hall Foundation, spearheading the fundraising campaign, plans to launch a more formal fundraising initiative in the near future.