Chute-Montmorency Pavilion
client
Hydro-Québec
year
2023
place
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, Québec
format
650 pi2
project type
Interpretation
The Chute-Montmorency interpretation pavilion is designed to offer a fresh perspective on a site that is widely visited by tourists from all over the world.
As an extension to the park, and as part of an architectural walk, visitors discover a topographical model highlighting the installation of the very first hydroelectric power station, the remains of which are still visible. The pavilion creates an educational and contemplative space where visitors can explore the influence of the site's natural features to discover when and how they contributed to the advent of hydroelectricity in Quebec, in an innovative pavilion that meets the unique requirements of a SEPAQ heritage site.
Conceptual choices
The pavilion is an architectural chameleon. With its openwork slats, the timeline changes depending on the angle of view, allowing the pavilion to blend into the landscape or stand out, depending on the perspective.
The waterfall remains at the heart of the experience, underscoring its historical importance and natural beauty, while embracing an evolving vision of its industrial heritage.
Technical choices
To create an Instagram moment without detracting from the beauty and richness of the site, we selected a design of ultra-fine sandblasted natural aluminum slats with a coloured edge.
The topographical model features a bright, white, stain-resistant coating, designed to withstand the elements and the comings and goings of an estimated one million visitors a year.
Challenges
- Given the likelihood of seasonal flooding, we had to ensure the interpretive installations can be dismantled, are weather-resistant, and easy to handle, allowing them to be stored each year and reinstalled every spring.
- Because they get flooded in winter, the foundations also had to be extremely high-performance and durable.
- The design had to blend respectfully into an architectural promenade dotted with historic remains
- Ensuring the safety of a wide public, universal access and a smooth flow of visits. The central sidewalk had to remain unobstructed at all times, and the layout of the zone's components cannot create crowding.
- Our interpretive gesture had to blend into the landscape and respect the natural harmony of the site in terms of colour and visual impact.
- Engaging children playfully.
RESULTS
- The project raises Hydro-Québec's profile, showcasing its expertise to a million local and international visitors every year.
- The pavilion is a clear example of sustainable development that complies with the standards of the Ministère de l'Environnement et de la Culture du Québec.
- The model adds to the quality of the tour by offering a value-added activity for its historical and natural appeal.
- The Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, ranked Quebec's second-largest tourist attraction, makes a significant contribution to the local economy, generating a GDP of $16.6 million, tax revenues of $4.5 million, and supporting 193 jobs.
