Calgary’s Skyline Soars: $1.2-Billion Hotel Construction Project to Build City’s Next Two Tallest Towers

    Calgary’s Skyline Soars: $1.2-Billion Hotel Construction Project to Build City’s Next Two Tallest Towers

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    July 2, 2025
    5 min read

    Calgary’s skyline is set for a dramatic transformation as a $1.2-billion hotel construction project is announced, featuring the city’s next two tallest towers and bringing new energy to downtown.

    Calgary is on the cusp of a new era of urban transformation. In a bold move that signals renewed confidence in the city’s future, a $1.2-billion hotel construction project has been officially unveiled, promising to reshape the downtown skyline and inject fresh vitality into the heart of Alberta’s largest city. The development, which will see the construction of Calgary’s next two tallest towers, is not only a testament to the city’s resilience but also a beacon for its ambitions as a world-class destination for business and leisure.

    A Landmark Announcement for Calgary

    On July 1, 2025, city officials, developers, and hospitality leaders gathered at the corner of 15 Avenue and Macleod Trail S.E. to announce the launch of this landmark project. The twin towers, which will rise above the Beltline district, are set to become iconic additions to Calgary’s architectural landscape. The project is spearheaded by a partnership between local developers and Marriott International, with the towers slated to house the W Calgary and JW Marriott Calgary hotels, alongside luxury residences and retail spaces.

    The announcement comes at a pivotal time for Calgary, as the city continues to recover from the economic challenges of recent years and looks to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas. The project is expected to generate thousands of jobs during construction and operation, stimulate tourism, and serve as a catalyst for further downtown revitalization.

    The Vision: Calgary’s Next Two Tallest Towers

    The $1.2-billion investment will result in two gleaming skyscrapers, each designed to set new standards for luxury, sustainability, and urban living in Western Canada. According to project renderings and statements from the developers, the towers will soar to heights surpassing the current second-tallest buildings in the city, second only to the iconic Bow Tower.

    Key Features of the Project:

    • W Calgary Hotel: A flagship property for the trendy W brand, known for its modern design, vibrant social spaces, and focus on music and fashion. The hotel will offer over 300 rooms, a rooftop pool, signature restaurants, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
    • JW Marriott Calgary: Catering to luxury travelers and business guests, the JW Marriott will feature more than 350 rooms, expansive meeting and event spaces, a world-class spa, and fine dining options.
    • Luxury Residences: The upper floors of both towers will be dedicated to high-end condominiums, offering panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains.
    • Retail and Public Spaces: The podium levels will include retail shops, cafes, and public plazas designed to enhance the pedestrian experience and connect the development to the surrounding community.
    • Sustainability: The project aims for LEED Gold certification, with energy-efficient systems, green roofs, and innovative water management solutions.

    Economic Impact: Jobs, Tourism, and Downtown Revitalization

    The announcement of the $1.2-billion hotel construction project is being hailed as a major economic boost for Calgary. City officials estimate that the development will create over 2,000 construction jobs and hundreds of permanent positions in hospitality, retail, and building management once the towers are operational.

    Tourism Calgary CEO Cindy Ady expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential to attract new visitors and conventions. “This is a game-changer for Calgary’s tourism industry. With these two world-class hotels, we’ll be able to host larger events, welcome more international travelers, and offer experiences that rival any major city in North America,” Ady said.

    The project also aligns with the City of Calgary’s downtown strategy, which aims to revitalize the core by encouraging mixed-use developments, increasing residential density, and enhancing public spaces. The addition of luxury hotels and residences is expected to draw more people to live, work, and play downtown, supporting local businesses and cultural institutions.

    Architectural Excellence and Urban Integration

    The design of the twin towers is the result of an international architectural competition, with the winning concept blending sleek modernism with elements inspired by Calgary’s natural surroundings. The towers’ facades will feature glass and steel, reflecting the ever-changing prairie sky, while the podiums will incorporate natural stone and wood to evoke the nearby Rockies.

    A key aspect of the project is its integration with the city’s urban fabric. The development will connect to Calgary’s extensive Plus 15 skywalk system, providing sheltered pedestrian access to nearby office buildings, shopping centers, and transit stations. Landscaped plazas and public art installations will invite residents and visitors to linger and enjoy the vibrant street life.

    Community Engagement and Cultural Impact

    From the outset, the developers have emphasized the importance of community engagement. Public consultations were held to gather input on the design, amenities, and public spaces. Local artists and cultural organizations will be involved in curating art installations and programming events in the new plazas.

    The towers are also expected to become landmarks for major city events, such as the Calgary Stampede, Canada Day celebrations, and international conferences. Their presence will symbolize Calgary’s emergence as a cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of Western heritage and global sophistication.

    Timeline and Next Steps

    Construction on the $1.2-billion hotel project is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with completion targeted for 2029. The project will be built in phases, starting with the excavation and foundation work, followed by the construction of the podiums and then the towers themselves.

    Developers have committed to minimizing disruption to the surrounding neighborhood, with detailed plans for traffic management, noise control, and environmental protection. Regular updates will be provided to the public as the project progresses.

    A New Era for Calgary’s Skyline

    The unveiling of this major hotel construction project marks a turning point for Calgary. As the city’s next two tallest towers rise, they will not only redefine the skyline but also signal a renewed sense of optimism and ambition. The development embodies Calgary’s spirit of innovation, resilience, and community, offering a bold vision for the future.

    For residents, business owners, and visitors alike, the project promises new opportunities, experiences, and a skyline that reflects the city’s growing stature on the world stage. As construction gets underway, all eyes will be on Calgary as it builds not just towers, but a legacy for generations to come.

    Published on July 2, 2025