From Stars to Art: The Evolution of Calgary’s Centennial Planetarium into Contemporary Calgary
Where Art Meets Design Inside One of Calgary’s Most Iconic Buildings
Perched along the Bow River in Calgary’s downtown West End, the Centennial Planetarium stands as a testament to the city’s architectural ambition and cultural evolution. Originally constructed in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s centennial, this iconic Brutalist structure has transformed from a hub of astronomical exploration into Contemporary Calgary, a vibrant center for modern and contemporary art.
A Visionary Beginning: The Centennial Planetarium
In the spirit of Canada's centennial celebrations, Calgary commissioned the construction of a planetarium to reflect the era's fascination with space exploration. Designed by the architectural firm McMillan Long and Associates, led by Jack Long and Hugh McMillan, the building was completed in 1967. Its raw concrete facade and non-orthogonal design exemplify Brutalist architecture, characterized by bold geometric forms and an emphasis on materiality.
The planetarium featured a 255-seat celestial theatre beneath a 65-foot domed screen, a 250-seat lecture hall, a library, observation deck, and telescopes. Its innovative design earned it accolades, including the National Design Council Concrete Award in 1967 and the Massey Medal in Architecture in 1970.
Transitioning Roles: From Science to Art
In 1984, the building found new life as the Calgary Science Centre, inspiring generations with interactive exhibits and educational programs for 27 years. After the Science Centre relocated in 2011, the structure stood vacant, prompting discussions about its future.
Recognizing the building's cultural and architectural significance, the City of Calgary partnered with Contemporary Calgary in 2018 to repurpose the space as a public art gallery. The transformation was undertaken by Lemay Architecture & Design Ltd., focusing on adaptive reuse while preserving the building's historic character.
Contemporary Calgary: A New Chapter
Today, Contemporary Calgary occupies the revitalized space, offering a dynamic venue for modern and contemporary art exhibitions. The gallery features multiple exhibition spaces, a cinema/performing arts area, educational facilities, and a rooftop sculpture garden. Notably, the former celestial theatre has been reimagined with a state-of-the-art LED panel screen, enabling immersive art experiences.
This transformation not only preserves a significant piece of Calgary's architectural heritage but also enriches the city's cultural landscape, bridging its scientific past with an artistic future.
At The Commons, we are excited to partner with Contemporary Calgary to offer you more than just a venue — we deliver a fully supported event experience. Contemporary Calgary provides the inspiring physical space: its contemporary galleries, industrial-chic architecture, flexible floor plans, natural light, and cutting-edge design. The Commons leads your event, bring together the event services, logistics, service excellence, and creative vision necessary to make your private event unforgettable.
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
Whether you're imagining a shimmering wedding in a gallery, an elegant corporate dinner with panoramic views, or a creative social event where art and ambiance meet — we’re here to make it happen.
Book a tour with us to experience Contemporary Calgary’s spaces and discuss how our full service event support can transform your private event into an unforgettable experience.
