PM’s official residence renos to be ‘completed by Canadians for Canadians’

A project manager is expected to be hired by fall 2027

Published Aug 24, 2026  •  2 minute read

Prime Ministers residence at 24 Sussex Drive in Ottawa Friday. Photo by TONY CALDWELL /Postmedia

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Canadian patriotism dominates even the renovations at 24 Sussex Dr.

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According to a Public Works department federal notice, the Prime Minister’s official residence overhaul must use all Canadian materials and supplies, reports Blacklock’s Reporter.

It “must be completed by Canadians for Canadians,” the notice titled Request for Qualification said.

“The desired outcome is a renewed 24 Sussex that serves contemporary needs and remains a symbol of Canada for generations to come. Given its national and historical significance, the rehabilitated residence must be completed by Canadians for Canadians. In that spirit, the use of Canadian materials and innovations must be considered and incorporated throughout the project.”

This means only Canadian contractors and subcontractors would be hired with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada handling the design.

The manor home at 22 Sussex Dr. was built in 1868 and was last home to Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his family in 2015.

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Its doors permanently closed in 2022 for immediate renovations budgeted at $36.6 million although a current fundraising goal is $50 million.

“24 Sussex embodies architectural, historical and symbolic value,” said the federal invoice.

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World-class design is sought 

“Its rehabilitation presents an opportunity to preserve an important part of Canada’s built heritage while ensuring it remains functional, resilient and relevant for future generations. The Government of Canada is seeking a world class design vision for the rehabilitation and modernization of 24 Sussex Drive that transforms it into a secure and modern official residence and working venue for Canada’s prime ministers.”

While a project manager is expected to be hired by fall 2027, no deadline for completion of renovations has been set.

The property was bought by Cabinet in 1943 from the estate of Ottawa lumber baron and Liberal Senate appointee William Edwards, and was occupied by successive prime ministers from 1951 onwards.

Before that time, government heads were expected to provide their own accommodation.

A 2008 Auditor General’s report described the property as a drafty relic “showing signs of fatigue and wear. The windows and caulking are cracked and the tracks and windows are loose.”

The report also described plumbing as “deficient,” with wiring dating back to the 1960s and air conditioner window units were called “noisy and inefficient.”

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