Situated in the northeast corner of Edmonton's provincial government precinct, the Federal Building stands as one of Alberta's finest examples of Art Deco architecture. Originally built in 1958 by the Government of Canada for its offices, the provincial government purchased the building in 1983 in advance of an anticipated move of federal staff to the then-modern Canada Place. During its time under provincial possession, the building would sit empty, with no immediate plans for use. But a thorough restoration substantially completed in 2014 brought the ten-storey structure back to its former glory, and the building now serves as a celebratory monument to Edmonton as Alberta's capital.

Federal Building pavilion construction in March 2012, image by Flickr user Kurt Bauschardt via Creative Commons

Federal Building pavilion construction in April 2012, image by Flickr user Darren Kirby via Creative Commons

The restoration project extended to the adjacent surface parking lots, which were ripped up and replaced by Centennial Plaza, a new public space punched with water fountains and offering direct views to Capital Boulevard and the Legislature. A two-storey glass pavilion was constructed on the west side of the Federal Building along with two gatehouses that bookend the plaza. A 650-stall underground parking garage hides all vehicular facilities underground, ensuring that valuable real estate is reserved for the public.

One of the two gatehouses, with the glass pavilion in the background, image by Flickr user Mack Male via Creative Commons

The building's east entrance preserves its signature architectural details, with the words FEDERAL PUBLIC BUILDING etched into the Tyndall facade. A stone representation of Canada's Royal Arms proudly anchors the podium parapet. Reminding passersby of the building's roots, the facade also bears carvings of the ten provincial shields.

Federal Building under renovations in May 2011, image by Flickr user Darren Kirby via Creative Commons

Federal Building in May 2015, image by Flickr user C Hanchey via Creative Commons

Construction of a penthouse atop the building was originally meant to be a meeting space, but at the behest of Premier Redford, it was converted into a residence for her family. When she faced backlash for the move, even from members of her own party, the space reverted back to its intended use. 

A look at the grounds in 2009, image retrieved from Google Street View

The renovated Federal Building and Centennial Plaza, image retrieved from Google Street View

The first wave of over 600 government and Legislature staff and MLAs moved into their new offices in February 2015. Opening on Canada Day that same year, the Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre hosts a gift shop, exhibition spaces and a 70-seat theatre. 

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