INSTITUTIONAL [small] AWARD WINNER

Jury comments: An inviting, bright and attractive building that combines economy and elegance with conscientious use of local materials and a sensitivity to its rich natural and historic context. The use of local wood elevates the architectural tone, giving a warm atmosphere to a highly functional building type. The project also leveraged improvements to the surrounding public realm, making it open and accessible to the public.

The new 1,372 m² Lévis ferry terminal, located on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, is a key component in the rehabilitation and revitalization of the city’s former industrial quayside. The development also includes a large urban park, that gives the public direct access to the shoreline.

The new building draws heavily on its spectacular historic setting, establishing a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape through form, materials and transparency. As such, the terminal creates an elegant and memorable gateway to the city of Lévis, as well as functioning as a critical transportation link for the more than two million commuters and other travellers who use the ferry system each year. The terminal is accessible from local bus, bicycle and pedestrian routes.

The Gare Fluviale incorporates numerous sustainable design strategies including: a high-performance building envelope; high-efficiency mechanical systems with ventilation heat recovery; an exposed wood structure sourced from Forest Stewardship Council [FSC] certified forests in the boreal regions of northern Quebec; low albedo roof finishes; high percentages of regional and recycled materials and water conservation measures for plumbing and landscape irrigation.

To make the most of the unique setting, the terminal has large areas of glazing on all sides. The rectangular building is oriented north-south, with its long west elevation facing the river.

Project Credits
Owner Société des traversiers du Québec
Architect Gagnon Letellier Cyr Ricard Mathieu & Associés Architectes
Project Manager The Société Québécoise des infrastructures
Mechanical Engineer Tetratech
Electrical Engineer Tetratech
Civil Engineer Stantec
Landscape Architect Planier
General Contractor Constructions Béland & Lapointe
Photos Stéphane Groleau

Project Performance
Energy intensity reduction relative to reference building under MNECB 1997 33%
Potable water consumption from municipal sources 2,832 L/occupant/year
Potable water consumption reduction relative to reference building 39%
Regional materials (as defined by LEED) by value 67%
Reclaimed and recycled materials by value 22%
Construction materials diverted from landfill 99%

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