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Sentier des Grands-Domaines-de-Sillery
By : BC2
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 16th edition
Discipline : Landscape & Territories
Categories : Special Awards / Landscape - Wood : Gold Certification
Categories : Landscape Architecture / Landscape Architecture - Cultural & Institutional Project : Platinum Winner
The Sentier des Grands-Domaines-de-Sillery project demonstrates the City of Québec’s commitment to sustainable urban planning and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Made possible thanks to financial support from the Government of Québec, this urban development project is an ambitious undertaking of approximately 1.5 km that integrates a multitude of elements designed to highlight the region’s historic sites.
Phase 1 of the project includes several paths and interpretive elements on the major estates of the time, a multi-purpose trail, two large belvederes and a 221-step staircase that winds its way up the rugged cliff face for more than 160m, the famous « charcotte » of the time. The belvederes and staircase were carefully designed to combine the versatility and durability of galvanized steel with the natural and noble beauty of wood, allowing for seamless integration into the surrounding landscape. The pathway also includes street furniture, interpretive panels, landscaping, plantings and play modules for children.
Despite several challenges, including the need to protect and preserve large-diameter trees, a fragile rock foundation and the management of contaminated soil, the project team succeeded in creating a stunning urban trail that highlights the city’s rich cultural history. The project design also highlights the city’s commitment to sustainability by reusing excavated materials and minimizing the environmental impact of the construction process.
The development of the Grands-Domaines-de-Sillery trail is part of the implementation of the Programme particulier d’urbanisme pour le site patrimonial de Sillery et ses environs adopted in 2015 following a consultation process with citizens. The team’s efforts focused on preserving the integrity of the natural environment while developing a trail that would attract visitors and foster community engagement.
By developing a trail that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the team created a unique and inviting space that will serve as a lasting legacy for generations to come. The project may serve as an inspiration for future urban development projects in Quebec and elsewhere.
Collaboration
