NCC announces new tenant for historic O’Brien House in Gatineau Park

O'Brien House in Gatineau Park is pictured in this undated image. (National Capital Commission/X)

The National Capital Commission has confirmed that a new tenant will move into the historic O’Brien House in Gatineau Park this spring.

The lodge, built on the shores of Meech Lake in 1930 for businessman John Ambrose O’Brien, founder of the Montréal Canadiens and a key figure in creating the National Hockey Association, was acquired by the NCC in 1964.

It underwent extensive restorations in 2018 and briefly operated as a hotel.

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On Tuesday, the NCC confirmed it signed a lease agreement with Square Old Chelsea to again operate the house as a boutique hotel, with 11 guest rooms, event spaces, and food and beverage services.

“O’Brien House is truly one of the gems among the 1,664 properties entrusted to the National Capital Commission. We are delighted to see its doors reopen and to witness renewed vitality at a site that holds such a meaningful place in Gatineau Park,” said NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum in a news release. “This agreement with Square Old Chelsea strengthens our commitment to showcasing and protecting an important part of the National Capital Region’s heritage.”

Square Old Chelsea is a locally owned group of small businesses in Chelsea, Que. It operates the Chelsea Pub, Biscotti & Cie, La Cocktailerie, Terrasse du Square, the Distillerie du Square, Lofts du Village, and Chalet des Collines.

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“The relaunch of Maison O’Brien reflects our vision of celebrating heritage and showcasing our region by creating authentic and welcoming gathering spaces,” said Square Old Chelsea CEO Manuela Teixeira in a news release. “Through our collaboration with the NCC and local partners, we aim to highlight the richness of our territory and offer a vibrant space open to all.”

A spokesperson for Square Old Chelsea says O’Brien House should reopen in May, if all goes according to plan. The group also plans to operate a café from Wednesday to Sunday and host weekend brunches highlighting local producers and seasonal ingredients. A curated afternoon tea experience could also be introduced once the destination becomes more established.

O’Brien House, also known as Kincora Lodge, is a two-and-a-half storey building that was designed by architect Werner Noffke in the Queen Anne Revival style. The NCC says its cedar‑shingled roof, log siding and granite foundation reflect its connection to the Canadian wilderness.

The house was recognized as a federal heritage building in 1984.