Rendering by PLAY-TIME, Courtesy of Diamond Schmitt 

Saint John, NB – March 25, 2024 – Today the New Brunswick Museum (NBM) Board of Directors marked a significant step forward for the Revitalize NBM project, with the unveiling of its bold new design and the announcement of critical funding.

The Revitalize NBM project will create a new 134,000-square-foot facility which will house research, exhibition, and community spaces under one sustainable, decarbonized roof. The design, created by award-winning architectural firm Diamond Schmitt, captures the essence of New Brunswick’s rich heritage and natural landscape, featuring expansive views of the Saint John Harbour and surrounding natural beauty.

“We are thrilled to unveil the design for New Brunswick’s provincial museum, which embraces the historic Douglas Avenue location while creating a welcoming and engaging space for everyone,” said Tracy Clinch, Chair of the New Brunswick Museum Board. “With substantial funding from the provincial and federal governments and a significant contribution from the museum itself, this project represents an important milestone for our province. It’s a testament to our commitment to preserving New Brunswick’s rich heritage while embracing sustainability and innovation.”

The project is a collaborative effort between the provincial government, the federal government, and the New Brunswick Museum Board of Directors. Funding announced today includes a provincial government contribution of $58 million and a federal government contribution of $49.9 million. The New Brunswick Museum will also contribute significantly through a forthcoming capital campaign.

The project has to-date benefitted from extensive and ongoing engagement with First Nations and other cultural groups, and with community members and heritage stakeholders around the province.

“This new infrastructure will ensure the rich tapestry of our province’s history is preserved and accessible for generations to come,” Ms. Clinch said. “We are grateful for the government’s support and excited to share this journey with the community.”

Sharing New Brunswick’s Stories
The new museum boasts several features designed to enhance the visitor experience and support the
NBM’s mission:

• Sustainable Construction: Reflecting New Brunswick’s leadership in forestry, the museum will be
  considering the use of mass timber, a renewable and sustainable resource.
• Accessibility for All: A new, accessible main entrance and a multi-story public great room will
  prioritize inclusivity and ensure a welcoming environment for everyone.
• Dedicated Exhibition Spaces: Nine exhibition galleries, including permanent and temporary
  spaces, will offer visitors a comprehensive exploration of New Brunswick’s history and culture.
• Community Hub: Flexible spaces designed for educational programs, community events, and
  public gatherings will foster connection and engagement.

###

About New Brunswick Museum
The New Brunswick Museum is the oldest continuing museum in Canada, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history, art, and natural history of New Brunswick. With a commitment to education, research, and community engagement, the NBM serves as a hub for exploration, learning, and appreciation of New Brunswick’s vibrant past and present. To learn more, visit nbm-mnb.ca.

QUOTES
“Revitalizing our cultural landscape is about preserving our heritage while embracing innovation. Our project to rebuild the museum stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering vibrant communities. By blending history with sustainability, we are not just rebuilding a structure; we are sculpting a legacy for future generations.”
Dominic LeBlanc, Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister
Read the full press release here.

“Finding a permanent home for the New Brunswick Museum has been an important project for our government. Today is an exciting day for all New Brunswick residents because this renewed infrastructure will be a place to preserve and showcase our province’s natural and cultural history for generations to come.”
The Honourable Blaine Higgs, Premier
Read the full press release here.

“Taking inspiration from the museum’s original site—one of the great vantage points in Saint John—our design embraces the rich history of New Brunswick’s heritage and natural landscape. This is a museum project for the past, present, and future of New Brunswick, prioritizing archives and conservation capabilities, major exhibition galleries, community and education spaces, and environmental sustainability through our goal of zero-carbon certification.”
Donald Schmitt, Principal at Diamond Schmitt
Read the full press release here.

For more information:
Vanessa Burley
Duke Creative Collective
506-643-1293

vanessa@thisisduke.com