Existing Building Upgrade Award
Jury Comment
Given the heritage status and historic character of this building, the performance metrics were highly commendable, proof that we don’t have to choose between preservation and sustainability. The process was comprehensively documented and the results are beautiful, simple, warm and modern.
The Hotel de Ville was built from 1872 to 1878 and rebuilt in 1925 after a fire. This project is one of the largest heritage restorations undertaken in Quebec.
The ambitious approach was aimed at preserving the exceptional features of the building, while introducing contemporary, open, and accessible spaces for citizens.
The strategic approach included: retention of architectural and structural components, preserving existing resources and avoiding the extraction of new ones; restoration of windows and upgrading of the building envelope to enhance energy efficiency; decarbonization of energy sources to achieve 99% carbon free operation; energy optimization through the recovery of heat from exhaust air and air-source heat pumps; and modernization of lighting, heating, and plumbing fixtures. These measures reduce energy consumption by 78% compared to its previous state. A LEED v4.1 O+M certification for existing buildings is underway, reflecting the emphasis on occupant quality of life.
Analysis of the 1925 plans revealed a design dedicated to civic activities. This principle has been updated, with public access points redefined, and the feeling of ownership reinforced by more inclusive spaces that meet the highest universal accessibility standards.
The redesign enhances the readability of interior spaces, allowing them to evolve over decades. Large axes serve as spatial landmarks and offer visual connections to the urban environment, letting light reach the centre of the building. The use of wood and biophilic elements strengthens the connection with the outdoors.
Alongside the restoration of the City Hall, the Champ-de-Mars to the north of the building has been redesigned to green the area and highlight the remnants of Montreal’s old fortifications. The site includes a 242 m³ retention basin for optimal rainwater management and a drip irrigation system that optimizes water use. These interventions help increase the site's resilience to heavy rainfall.
Built in the 1870s and rebuilt in 1925 after a fire, the Hotel de Ville is one of the largest heritage restorations undertaken in Quebec. Detailing incorporates Muntz Bronze from CBC Specialty Metals & Processing . Heat pumps by Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada contribute to improved energy performance.
PROJECT CREDITS
- Owner/Developer Ville de Montréal
- Architect Beaupré Michaud et Associés, Architectes
- Joint Architect MU Architecture
- General Contractor Pomerleau
- Civil/Structural Engineer NCK
- Electrical/ Mechanical Engineer Martin Roy & Associés
- Commissioning Agent CIMA+
- Other Contributors David Gour;
- Plomberie Jubinville; HVAC; ACCS
- Photos Raphaël Thibodeau
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