House of Commons Foyer
The House of Commons Foyer is a rectangular, two-storey arcaded hall.
This lofty ceremonial space consists of heavy piers joined by moulded
arches supporting, beneath a glazed ceiling, an arcade of black marble
columns. The pointed arch — a dominant feature of the overall design
— is repeated on the surrounding walls, and frames the elegant entrances
to the Chamber and to the ministerial suites.
The importance of the House of Commons Foyer is reflected in its generous
scale and full Gothic Revival treatment. It is among the most ornate spaces
within the Centre Block. Its exquisite materials — polished marble
floor, sculpted limestone walls, coloured art glass, carved oak —
as well as gilt-framed portraits of Prime Ministers, all contribute to
the dignified character of the Foyer.
A variety of native and imported stones were selected for the area. The
Commons Foyer is clad with Tyndall limestone on a Missisquoi Black marble
base. Indiana limestone was added for fine sculpture work. The polished
marble floor is a field of Missisquoi Boulder Grey with interior borders
of Verde Antique serpentine. In addition, a fine Rose Tavernelle marble
balustrade separates the Commons Foyer from the lower entrance hall.
|
