Édicules Promenades Cathédrale

Discipline : Architecture

Categories : Other categories in architecture / Infrastructure : Gold certification

Categories : Special Award / Architecture + Site & Landscape Integration : Gold certification

This achievement fits into a unique and emblematic urban context of downtown Montreal. Shaped over time by several determining projects, such as the KPMG Tower, the Promenades Cathédrale, and more recently, the transformation of Sainte-Catherine Street West, this area has witnessed major parts of the metropolis's history.

One of the key features of the place is undoubtedly the strong presence of the Christ Church Cathedral in the background of the kiosks. Therefore, the primary intention was to simplify the architectural expression of the kiosks so as not to compete with the neo-Gothic style of the cathedral, and to offer better visibility to the underground shopping center.

Inspired by the morphology of the cathedral, as well as distinctive components of its interiors (organ, color of the finishes...), the architecture of the new kiosks updates their appearance, configuration, and presence on the site. First, to integrate them into the urban reading made by pedestrians traveling in the east-west axis, their sloped roof completes the cascading sequence of the cathedral's copper roofs. Then, to signal the entrance to the Promenades Cathédrale, the formal articulation of the ceiling and roof of the kiosks unfolds from Sainte-Catherine Street to the north interior face, creating a well-visible frame from the public road. In addition to guiding passersby, this framing accentuates the presence of the cathedral on both sides of the front of the block.

In close proximity, the dialogue established between the kiosks and Christ Church Cathedral intensifies. The folding and coppery tones of the metal ceilings echo the language of the church's main organ, reinterpreting the unique forms of the instrument crafted in 1979 based on principles used for ancient Northern European organs. The transparency of the building envelopes reveals this original architectural treatment: the connection is both visual and symbolic. The new kiosks support the narrative of the place and contribute to its sustainability.

By enhancing the presence of Christ Church Cathedral and more clearly and effectively reflecting the underground commercial activities, this architectural proposal creates an inviting, attractive space that enriches the pedestrian experience on Sainte-Catherine Street, while reviving the historical and cultural heritage of the site.

The project in images