Earnscliffe
National Historic Site

Earnscliffe, located at 40 Sussex Drive on the Ottawa River, is one of Canada's most historically significant residences, the former home of Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, and the current official residence of the British High Commissioner to Canada.

Graebeck Construction was entrusted with interior and exterior renovations to this National Historic Site of Canada, a project that demanded extraordinary sensitivity to heritage character. The scope included masonry repair and repointing, selective demolition, electrical system upgrades, and the comprehensive abatement of asbestos and lead paint, all while preserving the irreplaceable historic fabric of the building.

Working in an active diplomatic residence added an additional layer of complexity: scheduling around the High Commissioner's official calendar, adhering to diplomatic security protocols, and maintaining the dignity of a building that continues to serve as a formal venue for Canada-UK relations. Graebeck's team coordinated directly with British High Commission staff and Parks Canada heritage officers throughout the project.

The completed renovations preserved Earnscliffe's historic character while improving the safety, functionality, and longevity of this irreplaceable piece of Canadian history.