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Redevelopment of interior spaces for Concordia University
By : RÉGIS
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 16th edition
Discipline : Interior Design
Categories : Education, Institution & Healthcare / University & Higher Education : Gold Certification
Categories : Special Awards / Interior Design + Colour
In order to allow the growth of its activities and the development of new initiatives, Concordia University had leased some spaces in a building located downtown Montreal, near Sir George Williams campus. As a result, 7 full floors and 2 partial levels of the 14-storey building are now housing the School of Engineering and Computer Science, the Faculty of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
The integration of an institutional value in the context of a building that had until then a more commercial mission, was intellectualized around three axes representing the very nature of the higher educational establishment, namely the youth who occupy the premises, the innovation that is developed there as well as the knowledge that is preserved and valued. In order to respond to the aspirations and idealism of the students, the interior design of the common areas surprises with a strong \”signature\” element such as the deep black of the ceilings themselves punctuated with a graphic and dynamic lighting. The choice of an intense jet color contributes to create a warm and cozy atmosphere, and infuses a touch of prestige, while the verticality created illustrates the infinite possibilities conferred by the knowledge and inspires the surpassing of oneself, all of which are transcendent values dear to Concordia University.
The open and circulation areas were treated with the intention of maximizing the meeting spaces and encouraging the appropriation of micro-places thanks to a judicious programming of the furniture, punctual applications of bold colors as well as modulation of the luminosity. A synergy and a sense of belonging between the departments were created by a design based on common grounds for the floors occupied by the various teaching units. However, the uniqueness of each of them is underlined by a distinctive shade applied as an accent, which was carefully selected according to the nature of the academic training provided. The layout was custom designed according to the use of each of the premises, thus creating a pathway where the atmosphere is alternately sober and lively. The distribution of the spaces was carried out with a concern for cohabitation and was thought out in a spirit of collaboration between all the parties involved.
