Architecture

An Expression of Culture and History

The vision for Queen’s Marque was shaped by stories from our past and the sense of opportunity we see for the future.

From the materials used, including local sandstone and reclaimed cobblestones, to the marine forms used throughout, Queen’s Marque honours the spirit of Nova Scotia.

Ode to heritage with an eye on the future

We invite you to climb to the top of Rise Again and look out over the harbour. It is a ritualistic climb in homage to past generations that worked hard and struggled at times, to forge this place. Rising out of the water, the form is proud and hopeful, as is our city.

At its apex is Tidal Beacon, an art installation that transforms with the changing environment. As the tides rise and fall, Tidal Beacon reacts, culminating with a beam that shines out over the harbour.

Much like Nova Scotians, Rise Again and Tidal Beacon are shaped by the sea. It remembers and honours our past while looking optimistically into the future.

A Place to Gather

This is a destination that was created for people to gather and connect – with each other and with Nova Scotia. This sense of community has been woven into the very design of the district and brings vibrancy to the heart of the city.

Enjoy an espresso by the Bosque Gallery under the blazing maples, connect with friends at the edge of the water or visit our calendar for upcoming festivals and events hosted in Rise Again square.

Architectural Excellence

Our region’s most celebrated architect, Brian MacKay-Lyons, of MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, has established a global reputation through ‘Born of this Place’ design. At Queen’s Marque district, Mr. MacKay-Lyons employs a deep understanding of local vernacular, modern, clean lines and honest materiality to impart a clear and pure sense of Nova Scotia.

Making a Marque: Architectural Record

Connection with Space

At Queen’s Marque, we hope you feel a connection with the space. Open spaces, amenities and art create a sense of space and community.

Queen’s Marque invites visitors to rise and fall like the sea, climbing to the top of Rise Again and descending Queen’s Landing to touch the ocean. This is a destination that encourages connection and reflection.

Deeply Local

To create something truly Born of this Place, Queen’s Marque draws deeply on local talent and knowledge.

The architects, consultants and builders of this district help tell the story of Nova Scotia through local design, materials and features drawing on symbols, stories and traditions of our past. The result is an authentic connection and sense of place.

Gentle Footprint

Being shaped by the land and its people means Queen’s Marque must have the utmost respect and care for its place. We are guided by ethical design and environmental principles of being beneficial and not detrimental to the land.

Queen’s Marque is fundamentally designed to be sustainable and healthy, maximizing solar heating during the winter and using ocean water for cooling in the warmer months. Water drawn in from the harbour circulates throughout Queen’s Marque creating a comfortable environment with no energy required for cooling, and minimal usage for heating through high efficiency heat pumps.