Heritage meets modernity in a light-filled hub

By Construction Canada
The Universite du Quebec a Montreal (UQAM) officially inaugurated its first major campus building in 10 years. Photos courtesy UQAM – Nathalie St-Pierre

The Universite du Quebec a Montreal (UQAM) officially inaugurated its first major campus building in 10 years—the Pavillon de l’Entrepreneuriat et de l’innovation (Entrepreneurship and Innovation Pavilion).

The bright, modern facility is part of a broader urban revitalization effort aimed at strengthening the vitality of downtown Montreal.

Designated as a heritage building of architectural value by the City of Montreal, the pavilion incorporates restored elements of the former Alexandra School, built in 1910, into a contemporary structure bathed in light.

At its core is a large, bright atrium, surrounded by the walls of the former schoolyard and illuminated by a skylight spanning all five floors.

Programmed and managed by the UQAM Planning and Real Estate Projects Department, the pavilion was designed by Consortium NFOE/EVOQ (architecture), in collaboration with AtkinsRealis (mechanical-electrical), CIMA+ (structural-civil), and Bouthillette Parizeau Inc. (commissioning), in accordance with sustainable development standards.

Students can conduct their research work in state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with interactive screens and Quebec-made modular furniture. A panoramic terrace on the fourth floor offers views of downtown.

This facility will play a vital role in the economic development of Montreal and Quebec, while preparing a new generation of French-speaking entrepreneurs.