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Central Chambers: Ottawa's Queen Anne Revival Gem

Discover Ottawa's architectural heritage at Central Chambers, a stunning example of Queen Anne Revival design in a landmark location.

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Central Chambers National Historic Site, located at the corner of Elgin and Queen Streets in Ottawa, is a striking example of Queen Anne Revival commercial architecture. Built in 1890-91, this six-story building originally housed the Canadian Atlantic Railway offices and now houses the National Capital Commission. Its elaborate facade and prominent location make it a key landmark framing Confederation Square.

A brief summary to Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada

  • 40 Elgin St, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1P 1C7, CA

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a less crowded, more intimate experience.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Parliament Hill and the National War Memorial for a full day of exploration.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and details of the building's facade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Confederation Square or Parliament Hill, Central Chambers is a short walk. Head south on Elgin Street towards Queen Street. The building is located on the east side of Elgin Street, at the corner of Queen Street, directly facing the National War Memorial.

  • Public Transport

    OC Transpo buses serve the area. Several bus routes stop near the intersection of Elgin and Queen Streets. From the 'Elgin St & Queen St' stop, Central Chambers is a short walk away. A single ride fare costs $4.00.

  • Driving

    From Highway 417, follow the signs to downtown Ottawa and Elgin Street. Central Chambers is located at 40 Elgin St. Street parking is available, but it may incur a fee. Nearby parking garages include the ByWard Market Garage (70 Clarence St) and the CF Rideau Centre. Parking rates vary, with street parking costing $2.50 per 30 minutes and garage parking ranging from $5 to $8 per hour.

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Discover more about Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada

Central Chambers, a National Historic Site of Canada, stands proudly at the intersection of Elgin and Queen Streets in Ottawa. Constructed between 1890 and 1893, it exemplifies the Queen Anne Revival style of commercial architecture. Designed by John James Browne of Montreal, the building originally served as the office for the Canadian Atlantic Railway. The six-story structure is a prominent landmark, framing Confederation Square and facing the Canadian War Memorial. Its architectural significance was officially recognized in 1990 when it was designated a National Historic Site. The Queen Anne Revival style, popular from the 1870s to World War I, is characterized by asymmetrical facades, steeply pitched rooflines, front-facing gables, and ornamented details. Central Chambers showcases these features with its red brick, terra cotta panels, white trim, and multiple bay windows. Described as one of the city's grandest commercial structures at the time of its construction, Central Chambers was designed with upscale commercial space on the ground floor and offices above. In the 1960s, the National Capital Commission (NCC) acquired the building. After being vacant for many years, the interior was gutted in 1992 and integrated into a new office tower complex, preserving its historic facade. Today, Central Chambers continues to be a dominant presence in Confederation Square, a testament to Ottawa's rich architectural heritage.

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