This project has been rolling along under the radar, they are aiming for a 2026 opening.
Métis National Heritage Centre
Location: 335 Main Street
Neighbourhood: Downtown -
Point Douglas Ward (Lord Selkirk-West Kildonan Community Committee)
Developer: The Manitoba Métis Federation | Métis N4 Construction Inc.
Architect: Number TEN Architectural Group
Status: U/C
Media:Renderings
Description: The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, is developing the Métis National Heritage Centre in the heart of the Red River Métis Homeland at Winnipeg's iconic Portage and Main intersection. This transformative project involves the adaptive reuse of the historic former Bank of Montreal building (constructed in 1913).Symbolically oriented toward the northwest—facing the traditional Métis Homeland—the centre occupies the southeast corner, a site of profound historical importance as the primary crossroads of the Red River Cart trails that connected Métis communities across the Prairies. This unique, one-of-a-kind facility will preserve and share Red River Métis narratives through immersive exhibits and programs that thoughtfully integrate historical artifacts—such as those from the recently acquired "Our Grandmothers" Collection, featuring beadwork, quillwork, textiles, and items dating to the 1830s—with contemporary art and interactive experiences. The centre will honor the Red River Métis' pivotal role in Canada's Confederation, the founding of Manitoba, and the nation's ongoing development, while serving as an accessible, inclusive gathering space to celebrate collective identity, culture, governance, and language revitalization efforts (including Michif). Supported by significant investments, including over $23 million from the Government of Canada and $10 million from the Province of Manitoba, construction and renovations are progressing, with the centre scheduled to open in early 2027.
Permits: #24-267281 OP-2025-01-24,
Interior and Exterior Alterations. Landlord Work - Interior renovations to accommodate mechanical and electrical retrofit. Develop main floor and mezzanine levels into assembly space with offices with structural work including interior load bearing walls and ceiling structure. Second floor and third floor to be altered down to shell for future development. Exterior work to replace windows and doors with structural work for lintels over openings. New exterior facade to be constructed on the west side of the building and exterior preservation of existing with structural work to take place for both. Exterior ramp to main floor doors to be constructed for accessible entry.
A new story is infused into the neoclassical façade with a screen designed with Métis beadwork artist, Jennine Krauchi. The design blends the building’s decoration with natural motifs found in traditional Métis beadwork. Hundreds of coloured aluminum chains form the screen, a reference to the moment Louis Riel stepped on the surveyor’s chain, forever changing Manitoba’s history.
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