THE FORCE OF THE MOUNTAIN
Did you know that in the 20th century, ascending Mount Royal was a popular activity thanks to a mechanical ski lift? This connection, which no longer exists today, allowed students to reach the top of the mountain to enjoy various activities. The funicular (1) aims to reestablish this connection by offering all Montrealers a direct and inclusive access to the CEPSUM centre on each of its levels, both indoors and outdoors. Democratizing access to the mountain and to sports would enable all members of the community to collectively reconnect with the city's green space.
With its signature Carabin blue, the funicular first serves as a visual landmark for new spectators. It emerges from the existing building, highlighting the new entrance (2), where large mobile platforms (3) await fans. These platforms climb all levels of the CEPSUM to the new viewing deck (4). Then, cabins (5) allow passengers to continue their ascent to Tiohtià:ke Otsira'kéhne Park. A later phase of the project could even envisage a direct connection (6) to the underground metro network. The integration of the funicular is a radical gesture that both recalls the history of the site and connects with the contemporary values of the Carabin team: promoting the strength of the mountain.
The new viewing deck reinvents the way we watch sporting events. Upon arrival, visitors enter a service area (7) where they can refresh themselves or gather. The platform, which covers the entire existing stands, consists of three large multi-purpose platforms (8) that can be adapted to suit different needs, offering an alternative way to watch a match. Far from rigidifying the space with fixed rows, the layout is based on smooth transitions; colours (9), textures (10), sloped areas with synthetic turf (11), and ramps (12), encouraging free and fluid appropriation of the space, open to all bodies and all rhythms. In short, the funicular embodies a new inclusive sporting ritual that is at one with the mountain.
(From competitor's text)
The new structure behind the field is a promising idea. While the proposed funicular is relevant, a multi-level design would better handle increased user flow. Its starting point could be more effectively connected to the street. The proposal creates an interesting connection with the mountain and with the historic ski lift. The creation of new bleachers is appreciated, but the jury noted that they should be longer and centered on the field. Bleachers without seats are interesting, but the use of a light, transparent structure could have further enhanced visibility of the mountain.
The jury awarded this proposal a special mention for the relevance of the new tiered structure behind the field, the successful integration with the mountain and the reminder of the historic ski lift. The extension of the promenade into the mountain is an interesting idea.
(From jury report)
6 scanned / 6 viewable
- PDF presentation
- Perspective
- Plan
- Section
- Axonometric Drawing
- Schema
