ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT
We propose an open, free, modular, flexible and expressive architecture that integrates and overlays the geometry of the original octagon. Our approach is based on the sense of place and its enhancement by urban, landscape, spatial and architectural devices. The latter emphasize the new uses, but also accompany the movement of people, while highlighting the urban, social and cultural history of the place.
Premises and conceptual principles
- Sensitive intervention and preservation of the large octagon: highlighting the characteristic elements of the site as concrete signs of the evolution and durability of the community it represents.
- The octagon as an affirmation of a geometry in which a new spatiality conforms
- The interlocking of the two architectures, existing and new, reveals a new centrality and the dynamics of the voids that found it.
- Highlighting a precious space, contained in the heart of the new library: the Patio - a place of discovery.
- Associating spatial continuity and visual breakthroughs to guide the movement of users.
- Propose a significant urban architecture and civic pole; an attractive landmark
- Support a landscape approach integrating site and building
- Assert a presence towards the city (Dollard Avenue) and a generous opening towards Félix-Leclerc Park
- Installing a new urban and programmatic figure, made up of both "voids" and "solids
- Develop a strong and durable architectural signature
- A social dynamic based on the presence of comics, playful spaces, as well as multiple possibilities for physical activities; an active architecture
- An approach intrinsically linked to sustainable development
An urban figure - dynamic relationship between "empty" and "full
Directly linked to the Félix-Leclerc park, the new urban and architectural figure takes advantage of the changing modulation of light and the positive impact of nature in an often too mineral living environment. A coherent and attractive landscape approach supports our approach. The civic spaces - a forecourt, an urban gallery, its "lounges" and the south esplanade - are oriented towards the main points of interest in the neighbourhood. The interpenetration of exterior and interior spaces qualifies the key spaces of the project, sometimes accompanying movement, sometimes relaxation. This permeability of the architecture ensures a call, an invitation, from the civic axis of Dollard Avenue. In direct link with the Félix-Leclerc park, the new spatial figure of the Octagon library takes advantage of the richness of its context and the possibilities of extending its activities towards the exterior.
(From competitor's text)
(Unofficial automated translation)
EVOQ + Group A architects
- We recognize the conceptual will to preserve the octagonal shape of the existing building but it is difficult to distinguish a clear architectural party.
- Despite a good presence on Dollard Avenue, the architecture of the building offers a rather average attractiveness. Given its small size, the positioning of the café at the corner of Salley and Dollard streets does not seem sufficient to constitute an element of animation inciting the frequentation of the institution.
- The generous use of wood gives the whole a rich and warm atmosphere.
- The natural lighting in the spaces dedicated to users is abundant and much appreciated.
- The proposal only partially meets the objectives set out in the vision statement.
- While the comic book is centrally located in the building, the gesture is rather incidental. Comics are not celebrated or highlighted in any significant way.
- Much effort and resources are invested in the creation of the patio, but given the presence of an adjacent park, the gesture seems disproportionate to the benefits provided.
- The triangular shape of the patio leads to rather aggressive peaks inside, especially towards the agora.
- In general, we perceive that the different sectors of the library have been developed in a preconceived volume that does not perfectly respond to the program. The children's area is divided into two parts because of the presence of the patio.
- We would have liked to see a strong and convergent link between the patio and the main entrance.
- We do not feel a real deployment of the café towards the agora because the space between the two is rather restricted and dedicated for circulation. The access to the administrative area makes the café less interesting.
- The integration of two outdoor terraces on the first floor is an attraction that contributes positively to the customer experience.
- The "science & food lab" occupies a prominent place in the building, but it raises some questions. It can be very interesting in this open space to recall a family kitchen with children running around. But it can also be disruptive to users of adjacent areas when various activities are held in this space.
- It is unfortunate that the existing part of the octagon is used almost exclusively for shelving. In addition, there is concern that the development of enclosed space in the center could darken this area.
- The lack of a direct entrance to the building from the parking lot is deplored.
- The technical solutions and sustainable development measures proposed are interesting. The solar wall is particularly appreciated.
- The project generally respects the regulatory requirements issued by the City and the Borough. A solution may be required to regularize the presence of the landing door in the side yard.
- The budgetary feasibility has been demonstrated with satisfaction. However, a validation of the costs of the building envelope should be done at the beginning of a possible mandate.
(From jury report)
(Unofficial automated translation)
49 scanned / 49 viewable
- Presentation Panel
- Presentation Panel
- Presentation Panel
- Presentation Panel
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Site Plan
- Site Plan
- Plan
- Plan
- Section
- Section
- Cross-sectional perspective
- Elevation
- Elevation
- Elevation
- Elevation
- Construction detail
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Schema
- Section
- Diagram
- Conceptual Sketch
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
- Reference Image
