McMichael
Reimagined
The transformation
begins this summer
This summer marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the McMichael.
On July 26, 2026, we temporarily closed our doors to undertake a transformative redevelopment—one that will enhance how we care for the collection, expand our exhibitions and programs, and improve the experience for every visitor who walks through our doors.
We look forward to welcoming you back in 2029. In the meantime, this page will keep you connected and informed as the project progresses.
We can’t wait to share what’s ahead.
Frances and Tim Price Executive Director and Chief Curator
Sarah Milroy
We are delighted to be embarking on this exciting voyage forward, giving Canadians the world-class museum that our rich culture deserves, from coast to coast to coast, and from past to present. The McMichael is the place where it all comes together.
Founding Partner, Hariri Pontarini Architects
Siamak Hariri
We have fallen in love with the vision set before us by the McMichael, as home to the art of Canada. The big, sturdy roof automatically says ‘home,’ but it also says longhouse, or cabin in the woods. From the approach, the roof hugs the ground making it welcoming, intimate, warm and inviting. But as you enter, the experience explodes, engaging the extraordinary setting in a number of surprising moments with a rare and uniquely Canadian combination of nature and art.
FAQ
The Closure
No. This is a temporary closure. While timelines for the project are still being determined, we anticipate welcoming visitors back to a reimagined McMichael in 2029.
The McMichael is closing to undertake a major redevelopment project. This work will include upgrading essential systems and expanding spaces for exhibitions, education, dining, and events, as well as improving collection storage, and creating more accessible and inclusive visitor amenities.
With no significant renovations in more than 40 years, the McMichael is overdue for this timely investment in our future—both for the sake of the art we steward and for the benefit of the communities we serve—now and for generations to come.
The gallery shop and e-shop are closed during the redevelopment. If you have an outstanding gift card, please hold onto it — it will be valid when we reopen in 2029.
The Project
No. The envisioned expansion will maintain iconic components of the original log structure, including the roofline and much of the timber and stone construction, and prioritize maintaining the cabin-like character that makes the McMichael so distinctive and beloved.
Yes. The McMichael’s original vision will be honoured throughout the new building. The iconic low cabin roofline will be maintained, and the timber and stone elements of the original structure will be carried throughout the new design. The entire building will be harmoniously integrated into the landscape of the Humber River Valley.
You can join us for a Public Information Session on Monday, July 27 from 5 pm to 7 pm at the McMichael. You can register for this event below.
In addition, we are currently undertaking a Heritage and Grounds survey with ERA Architects to inform future planning for the site. You can contribute to this survey at the link below.
We will be sharing design details about the future McMichael at the groundbreaking in fall 2026. Stay tuned for more information.
The award-winning Canadian firm Hariri Pontarini Architects, led by Founding Partner Siamak Hariri, will design the transformative redevelopment of the McMichael. Read the press release below.
The McMichael is deeply grateful for the generous support of both the provincial and federal governments, as well as generous private donors.
- The Government of Ontario is investing up to $50 million over three years to support the redevelopment and expansion of the McMichael.
- The Government of Canada has to date committed $25 million through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.
- More than $50 million has been raised to date through private philanthropy.
For full details and official announcements, please visit the Press Room on our website.
Grounds Access & Community Impact
Construction activity will affect site access. We are working with our project team to determine what access will be possible. We anticipate that the grounds will be open to the public throughout the summer of 2026. We will share updates here as plans are confirmed
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection features a network of scenic trails winding through 100 acres of forested land along the Humber River.
During construction there will be no trail access through the McMichael site, however trails along the Humber River will remain open.
Please consult the Grounds & Trails page to see the current trail map and alternate access points.
The McMichael parking lot will remain open to visitors Monday through Sunday until dusk throughout the summer of 2026.
Parking is free — please use the security buzzer at the entrance gate to be let in.
Once construction begins in fall 2026, the parking lot will be closed to vehicles.
The expansion has been designed to integrate thoughtfully into the existing site and minimize impact on the surrounding natural environment. We are working closely with our Indigenous partners to renew and revitalize the heritage landscape, with a focus on climate resilience and ecological stewardship. Plans also include enhancements to the trail system to deepen visitors’ connection with the land.
The new building will be net zero and will incorporate bird-safe window design throughout.
Yes, there will be a Public Information Session on Monday, July 27 from 5 pm to 7 pm at the McMichael. You can register for this event below.
In addition, we are currently undertaking a Heritage and Grounds survey with ERA Architects to inform future planning for the site. You can contribute to this survey at the link below.
Membership
While the McMichael is closed, your membership will be paused. During this time, you’ll still receive exclusive updates, invitations to special member programming, and opportunities to follow the transformation as it unfolds.
When the gallery reopens, your membership will automatically resume for the remainder of your term — with your current benefits and 2026 membership rate maintained.
Your reciprocal benefits will continue as usual until the end of your current membership. Please ensure you have a valid membership card to show when accessing reciprocal benefits.
Any guest passes you may have left will be honoured once the gallery reopens to coincide with the new expiry date on your remaining membership term.
In the interim, if you’d like to support our capital campaign, we’d be delighted to hear from you. To speak to us about a gift, please call the number below.
Please reach out to membership@mcmichael.com with any questions or call 905.893.1121/1.888.213.1121 ext. 2207. Our team is happy to help.
Education & School Programs
During the closure, we will continue to offer our Art2Go program, which brings McMichael educators directly into the classroom. Learn more at the link below.
We will share further updates with educators as future opportunities are confirmed. Sign up for our EdFlash newsletter below.
Collection & Artworks
During the closure, the McMichael’s permanent collection of almost 8,000 works, along with the 90,000-work Kinngait Drawing Archive, will be carefully relocated to a secure, climate-controlled facility to ensure their safety. Many works will be on tour in travelling exhibitions produced and circulated by the McMichael.
Yes. We will have several exhibitions touring the country, and other projects to be announced. You can find a list of our touring shows below.
The Collections database will remain accessible and up to date.
Staying Connected
Yes. We have plans underway for off-site exhibitions and special programming throughout the closure period.
Sign up for our newsletter using the form below or follow us on social media to be the first to hear about upcoming offerings.
You can sign up for our newsletter using the form below.
You can keep up to date with curatorial research and the collection in McMichael Magazine.
You can follow us on social platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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