Ronald McDonald House Atlantic at IWK Health Centre, Halifax City building, Nova Scotia architecture images

Ronald McDonald House Atlantic in Halifax, Canada

19 February 2026
Ronald McDonald House Atlantic, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Interior Designer: Sarah Baeumler Design Group

photo : Julian Parkinson

Home Away From Home: Thoughtful Design At The Core Of A Family Support Residence That Offers Hope, Support And An Oasis of Calm

Architects: Montgomery Sisam Architects and Lydon Lynch Architects

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia, northeast Canada

Images: Montgomery Sisam Architects and Lydon Lynch Architects

4 August 2023

Ronald McDonald House Atlantic, Canada

Since opening its doors, Ronald McDonald House Atlantic has played an exceptionally important role in the Atlantic care community, offering accommodations to families from outside the Halifax area whose kids have been seeking specialized medical care at the IWK Health Centre.

As the need for the accommodation increased, Ronald McDonald House Atlantic has collaborated with Montgomery Sisam Architects and Lydon Lynch Architects to develop an expanded facility, one that would respond to the trend towards longer treatment periods, as well as nurture peace and wellness, and create a refuge from the hospital and the city.

The result is an innovative residence that provides a ‘home away from home’ with a healing and welcoming environment at a time when the families need it the most. The new home increases the number of family rooms from 18 to 35 and introduces four larger suites — two-bedroom apartments with a kitchen space — for the families who have to stay long-term or children who are particularly immunocompromised. Similarly to a university residence building, the families are responsible for looking after their rooms or suites, cooking and doing their own grocery shopping.

The ground floor of the building houses a number of shared living and specialized program spaces, including art rooms, common kitchen, dining and lounge facilities. The communal dining area features a number of cooking stations, where the families are welcome to prepare their meals at any time during the day.

Apart from the tables in the common dining area, the space also offers little booths for the residents who are looking for some extra comfort and privacy to fully enjoy their meal.

To offer a respite from the bustle of the city, the architectural teams have created an outdoor sanctuary — a walled garden — which evokes a sense of security and protection and is meant to help residents relieve stress and soothe their anxiety. Additionally, the families have access to an outdoor courtyard, which serves as another lounge and children’s play area.