Built in 1912, the Ritz-Carlton Montreal is the oldest of the prestigious hotel chain. Despite its undeniable heritage qualities and classic elegance, the time had come to modernize the hotel to the taste of a contemporary clientele. The firm Provencher Roy + Associés Architectes therefore remodeled the existing 130 rooms and suites, renovated common areas, adding a touch of modern comfort, and built a ten-story residential wing.
A combination of glass and steel was recommended to attach the residential wings to the historical building as well as two additional floors on the hotel roof. The new structure is thus unobtrusive in daytime and becomes an amazing illuminated object at nightfall.
In order to offer future owners spectacular views while enhancing the facades, immense transparent loggias were built as extensions to the interior living rooms. Louvers were used to unify the facades along the glass walls of the 45 residential units.
The character of the Ritz-Carlton was preserved with flair, which the jury particularly appreciated. The hotel and its residences are now a successful example of what can be accomplished in an urban setting when contemporary practice is applied to a traditional frame.
