West Block, Ottawa (No. 4)
The West Block was built in 1859-65 to the designs of Thomas Stent and Augustus Laver, architects. New wings designed by the Department of Public Works were added in 1874-78 and 1906-09, and major interior renovations designed by Mathers & Haldenby of Toronto were carried out in 1961-65.
The West Block was designated Classified because of its exceptional importance in terms of historical associations, architectural quality and environmental impact.
Designed to accommodate the civil service, the West Block is directly associated with the substantial role played by the administrative arm of the federal government during the country's formative years.
Together with the 1859-65 wings of the East block, and the Library of Parliament, the West Block ranks with the best mid-19th century Gothic Revival buildings in the world. The product of three separate building campaigns, it presents an essay in the evolution of the Gothic Revival style from mid-19th century to the early 20th century.
In addition to being a national landmark in its own right, the West Block plays a critical role in establishing the overall character of Parliament Hill and strongly influences the character of the west end of Wellington Street.
