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Institut Teccart
By : A+ en collaboration avec DESK architectes
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Interior Design
Categories : Other categories in interior design / Common area : Silver Certification
Categories : Education, Institution & Healthcare / High School & College : Silver Certification
Categories : Special Awards / Interior Design + Stairs : Bronze Certification
Institut Teccart is a college of technology, arts and design. Located in Brossard’s Solar Uniquartier, the program for the design of this new school was ambitious. In addition to spacious and flexible classrooms, cutting-edge laboratories and sewing workshops, the 33,000 ft2 college had to include spaces for exchanges, work and gatherings, relaxation areas and several collaborative spaces. The aim was to create more than just a place of learning; the environment had to be stimulating, where every architectural element helps to inspire students and staff alike.
As soon as you enter the institute, you are enveloped by a welcoming, warm and uncluttered atmosphere. Initially this space was a large, two-storey high space marked by the presence of concrete and exposed mechanical elements. The layout of the premises has taken advantage of the raw character of the site and invested it with luminous spaces punctuated by elements of wood and « living » plants. The use of materials creates a visual and tactile harmony inviting users to explore and interact with their environment.
Design challenges included optimizing space, managing traffic flow, maximizing natural light penetration and user well-being.
Taking advantage of the high ceilings, a mezzanine was created to increase usable floor space. Flexible classrooms with removable partitions allow spaces to be subdivided according to different academic needs.
A colorful, 30-foot-long piece of wire art by artist Florence Giroux Gravel has been integrated into the main corridor. The work acts as signage, guiding visitors from the main entrance to other key areas of the school. The mezzanine also serves as a visual landmark in the space. To help manage the flow of movement, classrooms are located in continuous corridors with no dead ends.
Circulation is clearly organized, while taking advantage of natural light from curtain walls on the periphery. Corridor widenings are made at the junctions of high-traffic areas. Various seating areas (benches, alcoves, tables and staircases) are created within these zones. The impressive staircase enhances the staging of the space. The integration of vegetation and even a 14-foot-tall tree in various areas makes for a place conducive to learning and productivity.
To encourage the influx of natural light, several strategies were deployed: the presence of volumes that don’t go all the way up to the ceiling, a walkway with very thin railings, the use of glass partitions in several rooms as well as light strips at the top of classrooms. The color white was also favored for its ability to reflect light and create an atmosphere of purity and lightness.
A+ is delighted to have signed the design of this college in collaboration with DESK architects, which aimed to place the user at the heart of the project. Students now operate in a stimulating, enriching environment that contributes to their personal development.
Collaboration
