Teams through to second stage of competition to revitalise national park entrance

The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC), in partnership with Parks Canada, has announced the six multidisciplinary teams selected to advance to Phase II of the 200-Block Banff Avenue Redevelopment Project design competition, with the successful architectural firms including Tenderstream member Alison Brooks. The project seeks to revitalise areas in downtown Banff, creating purpose-built spaces and facilities to support visitor reception, enjoyment and connection with Banff National Park, as well as fostering understanding of the challenges faced by all such protected areas.

Over the past month, an evaluation team comprising Parks Canada representatives and RAIC professional advisors, overseen by an independent third-party fairness monitor, carefully assessed all submissions using criteria outlined in the pre-qualification documents. 

The six teams advancing to the One-Stage Design Competition are: 

Alison Brooks Architects 

EVOQ + Ryder 

Kengo Kuma & Associates + Paul Raff Studio 

KPMB Architects 

Revery Architecture 

Stantec Architecture 

Each team is eligible to practice in Alberta and demonstrates strong Canadian representation. These interdisciplinary teams bring together diverse expertise, including Indigenous knowledge weavers and visitor experience specialists, reflecting a deep commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and cultural awareness. 

The one-stage conceptual design competition has now officially launched, with the six teams having 7.5 weeks to develop and submit conceptual design proposals. Winning proposals must demonstrate design excellence, heritage conservation, environmental sustainability, and adaptability for implementation, while thoughtfully balancing historical context, project vision, and policy frameworks with a strong focus on visitor experience and connection to place. 

At the launch of the competition earlier this year, Mike Brennan, RAIC CEO, stated: “The RAIC is committed to a fair, open, and inspiring competition process that reflects the voices of Indigenous partners, residents, and visitors alike. We look forward to showcasing innovative concepts that will shape a lasting legacy for this extraordinary Canadian landmark.”

Phase II will conclude in December 2025, followed by engagement periods and jury deliberation. The design competition winner will be announced in spring 2026.

Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research

This tender was first published by Tenderstream on 14.02.2025 here

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