National War Memorial & Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Client

Government of Newfoundland & Labrador

Location

St. John’s, NL

Date Completed

July 2024

Project Team

CBCL Limited, Morgan MacDonald

Project Summary

The National War Memorial, located in downtown St. John’s, holds the distinction of being the oldest of its kind in the country, having been constructed in 1924, twenty-five years before Newfoundland joined Canada. In commemoration of its centennial, the Province undertook a significant and solemn initiative: the repatriation of an Unknown Soldier who served with distinction for Newfoundland during the First World War. This fallen soldier was interred at the Memorial site, further elevating its historic and symbolic importance.

Our team was honored to be engaged by the Province to design a tomb for the Unknown Soldier, as well as to lead a comprehensive refurbishment of the entire War Memorial site. The scope of this project was broad and encompassed the improvement of accessibility, a thorough assessment of existing lighting and mature trees, and the redesign of deteriorating infrastructure, such as staircases. Additionally, we undertook the cleaning and repointing of the granite walls and the central monument, and the revitalization of the surrounding green spaces, ensuring the site remains a dignified and welcoming place of reflection for future generations.