Chteau nouveau: iconic Ottawa hotel could get big expansion

It's been about 50 years since theChteau Laurierunderwent any major changes.But that could change over the next few years if the city approves the hotel owner's expansion plans.

Larco Investments, which bought the hoteltwo years ago, wants to movethe parking garageundergroundand addup to 200more rooms with a Peter Clewes-designed expansion.

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In a release, the company states: "The intent is to build new long-term stay suites, create a new exterior courtyard off the ballroom for seasonal use and replace the aging fivestorey parking structure with an underground parking facility, all under the management of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, the luxury brand that operates the hotel."

"The addition will offer a modern interpretation of the heritage character of the Chteau with a vocabulary of Indiana Limestone, glass and copper. The separated wings, massing and set back upper floors are compatible with the Chteau's existing roofscape silhouette, providing a dignified and deferential response to this iconic building," according to the release.

Project 'exciting,'councillorsays

Rideau-Vanier ward Coun.Mathieu Fleury is also quoted in the release: "I want to highlight the openness of the Fairmont Chteau Laurier team of consulting and engaging with the community, the city and partners like the NCC to make this project a success. It is an exciting project that introduces captivating architectural design to this important site for our capital city, while highlighting its important heritage value and location near the Parliament Buildings, Major's Hill Park, as well as the ByWard Market."

According to Larco, this "pre-consultation phase with community stakeholders" will be followed by NCC and City of Ottawa approvals on the proposed design. Later, a site plan control application will be made to the city. The company is also promising "further opportunities for community consultation" on the proposedplan prior tofinal approval by the City of Ottawa.

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