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Bättig staircases at the heart of the iconic Fairmont Le Reine Elizabeth
An iconic place, a major transformation
An icon of Montreal’s hospitality scene, the Fairmont Le Reine Elizabeth underwent a major modernization meeting the highest international standards. In this exceptional context, Bättig Design was selected to design and build four custom staircases—true centerpieces of the project—where precision of execution and quality of finishes had to be flawless. These works were brought to life through close collaboration with Pomerleau, the general contractor, as well as the firms Sid Lee Architecture and Architecture49, in a spirit of rigor, creativity, and ongoing dialogue.
The White Staircase — A timeless signature
With its refined, minimalist aesthetic, the White Staircase leaves a lasting impression on the tens of thousands of visitors who pass through the lobby each year. In a hotel of this prestige, it goes beyond its basic function of circulation: it becomes a visual anchor, an architectural landmark that contributes to the unique experience of the space. Its fabrication in modular sections made it possible to meet the building’s constraints, opening limitations, and delivery restrictions, while ensuring perfect visual continuity once assembled. Each joint was designed to disappear from view, preserving the sculptural character of the whole.
The Queen Glass Staircase — When glass becomes structure
This second staircase combines glass and marble in a sculptural architectural gesture. Its central stringer, made of laser-cut steel plate and fully concealed, supports steps that incorporate a rigid concrete backing for the marble. The double-tinted laminated glass guardrails, assembled in a fish-scale pattern, required a fully custom-machined fastening system. The underside, enclosed by a V-shaped steel structure, reflects advanced expertise in architectural metalwork. The brushed stainless steel handrail, handcrafted with no visible joints, completes a piece where every detail supports the overall aesthetic.
The tight geometry and the presence of a central stringer required fabrication in multiple sections. Once assembled, the guardrail panels provide a smooth, continuous appearance, with joints becoming completely invisible.
The black finish required particularly meticulous surface work, aimed at achieving a perfectly smooth texture and a uniform depth of color, suited to the high traffic and the restaurant’s refined, intimate atmosphere.
“Proud of an active collaboration, Bättig Design was attentive to our needs during the construction of the staircases at the Fairmont Le Reine Elizabeth. Martin stands somewhere between a craftsman and an industrialist — he enabled us to push the design further and go beyond the targeted level of quality for these complex works.”
Pascal Beauchemin, project architect, Sid Lee Architecture
At Bättig, each staircase is conceived as a functional architectural work of art, combining flawless execution with extreme attention to detail.
