A reimagined public space in the heart of Banff National Park — 200-Block
Parks Canada is working through an international design competition to develop a conceptual design for a reimagined visitor centre and community space in the heart of Banff National Park. The redevelopment project brings together world-class architects, Indigenous knowledge weavers, and visitor experience specialists to create concepts that reflect shared values and vision, and is a rare chance to create a vibrant public space in the heart of Banff National Park.
Parks Canada, in collaboration with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC), launched the design competition in June 2025, beginning with a pre-qualification phase after which up to six respondents were invited to submit conceptual design proposals.
On January 30th, Parks Canada launched a formal engagement period, where Canadians could explore the six submitted conceptual designs and provide feedback on how the elements of each design align with the key themes heard in Phase I of engagement.
The conceptual designs had to demonstrate:
A reflection of Banff National Park’s unique character
Authentic incorporation of Indigenous representation
Elements that support the local community
A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
For further information from phase 1 of engagement, take a look at the What We Heard Summary from Phase I Engagement under “Phase 1” on the sidebar.
This is a unique, once in a generation opportunityto redevelop 10 contiguous lots in downtown Banff into a vibrant public space that provides a true-to-place experience for visitors which inspires exploration, builds stewardship, and encourages connection.
Engagement on the 6 conceptual designs is now closed. Thank you for participating!
Parks Canada is working through an international design competition to develop a conceptual design for a reimagined visitor centre and community space in the heart of Banff National Park. The redevelopment project brings together world-class architects, Indigenous knowledge weavers, and visitor experience specialists to create concepts that reflect shared values and vision, and is a rare chance to create a vibrant public space in the heart of Banff National Park.
Parks Canada, in collaboration with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC), launched the design competition in June 2025, beginning with a pre-qualification phase after which up to six respondents were invited to submit conceptual design proposals.
On January 30th, Parks Canada launched a formal engagement period, where Canadians could explore the six submitted conceptual designs and provide feedback on how the elements of each design align with the key themes heard in Phase I of engagement.
The conceptual designs had to demonstrate:
A reflection of Banff National Park’s unique character
Authentic incorporation of Indigenous representation
Elements that support the local community
A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
For further information from phase 1 of engagement, take a look at the What We Heard Summary from Phase I Engagement under “Phase 1” on the sidebar.
This is a unique, once in a generation opportunityto redevelop 10 contiguous lots in downtown Banff into a vibrant public space that provides a true-to-place experience for visitors which inspires exploration, builds stewardship, and encourages connection.
Engagement on the 6 conceptual designs is now closed. Thank you for participating!
Learn about the six conceptual designs submitted to Parks Canada below, through:
- 3-minute overview videos
- Photos
- Detailed information panels (found at the top of the sidebar, above)
Please note that the six designs are conceptual in nature and reflect an early stage of development, at approximately 15% completion. They do not fully reflect what a final design may look like. Adjustments and feedback will be considered through a detailed design process once the winning design has been awarded.
Learn about the six conceptual designs submitted to Parks Canada below, through:
- 3-minute overview videos
- Photos
- Detailed information panels (found at the top of the sidebar, above)
Please note that the six designs are conceptual in nature and reflect an early stage of development, at approximately 15% completion. They do not fully reflect what a final design may look like. Adjustments and feedback will be considered through a detailed design process once the winning design has been awarded.
A reimagined public space in the heart of Banff National Park — 200-Block has finished this stage
Our activities will focus on meeting with individuals and groups to: provide information and answer questions; obtain feedback on the draft principles and considerations; and seek input on the aspirations and concerns that others may have about the redevelopment.
Reviewing the Results from Stage 1
A reimagined public space in the heart of Banff National Park — 200-Block has finished this stage
What We Heard
A reimagined public space in the heart of Banff National Park — 200-Block has finished this stage
In this step we will summarize the feedback received in phase 1 to inform redevelopment options for the site.
Stage 2: Conceptual Designs
A reimagined public space in the heart of Banff National Park — 200-Block is currently at this stage
Our activities in this stage will focus on: presenting redevelopment options for the site, and asking for feedback on them.
Winner Announced
this is an upcoming stage for A reimagined public space in the heart of Banff National Park — 200-Block
In this step the jury will consider the feedback received in stage 2 to inform their final report and announce the winner.
