After decades of waning interest and investment in civic buildings, Edmonton has become an exemplar of contemporary Canadian Architecture. At the centre of this transformation is the City Architect, Carol Bélanger. In 2005, then Edmonton mayor Stephen Mandel stated, “Our tolerance for architectural crap is now zero,” giving Bélanger a clear mandate to demonstrate architecture’s vital role in the growth and transformation of the city. Over the past decade Bélanger has facilitated public spaces and projects that have improved the daily lives of many Edmontonians and in doing so, garnered excitement and respect for what good architecture can mean for a growing city. Bélanger instigated Edmonton’s architectural renaissance in multiple ways: rewriting the City’s procurement process, developing a roster of architects for small projects, initiating a national design competition, including user groups in the selection process, working with and supporting design teams, encouraging the inclusion of national and international design talent, and using speaking engagements to address the importance of a quality-based procurement model and the need for architectural excellence.
PHOTO - EMA PETER
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PHOTO - HUBERT KANG
PHOTO - ANDREW LATREILLE
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PHOTO - Teeple Architects
Carol Bélanger is not just an advocate for architecture, but an advocate for procurement reform, design excellence and civic life. Since his appointment, Edmonton has become an exemplar of contemporary Canadian architecture. The projects he has shepherded through the city shape the public realm, and are marked by high-quality design and construction. Whether located in the urban centre, a community park, or a suburban mall, the resulting work encourages citizens to engage with architecture and city building—and demonstrably improves the lives of those who use it.
Bélanger’s advocacy and support for the procurement and execution of great design is an inspiring example to municipalities, professionals, and the public, and sets a beautiful example for improvements in procurement processes across the country.
2023 Annual Awards Jury