Following a competitive international design process, six multidisciplinary teams were shortlisted for the Banff 200 Block Redevelopment. Glotman Simpson, led by Paul Raff and Kengo Kuma + Associates were named the winner of Parks Canada’s international competition.
Our role as the structural engineers was to support the architectural vision with practical, resilient, and technically integrated structural solutions. Inspired by the mountainous landscape of Banff, the design was recognized for its sustainability, integration with the surrounding landscape and place, along with its flexibility to evolve while staying true to its original spirit.
The development includes:
- New visitor centre;
- Interpretive and community gathering spaces;
- Outdoor public spaces;
- Mobility infrastructure;
- Adaptive reuse of the Parks Canada building;
- Addressing housing needs for eligible residents.
At its core, the design is centered around a reimagined Banff Visitor Centre strengthening orientation, gathering, interpretation, and year-round public use. The framework supports the visitor Centre through coordinated civic and public realm planning, integrating multiple layers within an integrated public realm strategy. From a structural perspective, the project requires a careful balance between technical performance, long-term adaptability, and sensitivity to the surrounding environment.
Indigenous perspectives shaped the project’s understanding of stewardship, gathering, materiality, and connection to the land, reinforcing the importance of spaces that are culturally meaningful and responsive to their setting. As Banff continues to balance high visitor demands with ecological preservation and community needs, the Banff Visitor Centre establishes a new gateway enhancing how visitors experience one of Canada’s most visited destinations.
Follow along with us on LinkedIn + Instagram as we share updates on the project design.
Read the full announcement: https://glotmansimpson.short.gy/k0BxS4
