Overview

• The Canadian partnership was chosen from 14 proposals and endorsed by the Gallery’s Board after review by the Architect Selection Committee and extensive stakeholder input.
• A new conceptual design is expected in 2026, and the Gallery has not provided a revised construction or opening timeline.
• Excavation began in March 2024 but site work was halted in summer 2024 when the previous scheme proved unaffordable.
• The earlier Herzog & de Meuron design was abandoned after reported cost overruns increased the budget from $400 million to about $600 million, leading to the firm’s departure in late 2024.
• Formline brings Indigenous, place-based design and mass-timber experience, while KPMB contributes extensive expertise on major Canadian cultural institutions.