ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
As one approaches the west wing from the outside , an intriguing set of open bookshelves attracts attention . This live-in modular environment was designed to respond to children ’ s desire for adventure .
A sustainable building A collaborative approach ensured the delivery of a sustainable building and site . Professionals involved in this project complied with current standards of sustainable practice , including those pertaining to the protection of cultural diversity and biodiversity .
Highly efficient electromechanical systems were introduced to maximize thermal comfort , while keeping energy consumption at a minimum . Geothermal energy was a key factor in providing for the library ’ s heating and cooling needs . The addition of radiant floors further ensured the comfort of library patrons . Various other low energy devices were integrated in the project .
The curtain wall system , designed with integrated solar protection , effective thermal breaks , and lowemissivity thermal glazing units , greatly contributes to reach optimal performance . An application has been filed to obtain LEED Gold accreditation .
The neighbourhood The Maisonneuve Library is located on Ontario Street , an east-west axis which has undergone a radical transformation over the last decade . Still standing are a few early 20th century buildings , such as the former Maisonneuve Market , inspired by the City Beautiful movement . Today , distinctive paving subtly signals the presence of these memorable buildings and is an invitation to discover them .
The integration of the new library into this historically significant district was entrusted to civiliti , an urban design firm that formed part of the initial consortium . They designed a series of urban and landscape interventions , establishing seamless links between the library ’ s private grounds and the public domain . A public art sculpture by artist Clément de Gaulejac was installed in a playful court directly accessible from the children ’ s activity room . It stands quietly as a reminder of another era .
Many professionals contributed to this project , as did remarkable artisans , without whom it would have been impossible to restore the beauty of the old city hall . A statement from the 2017 competition jury report perhaps best reflects the spirit of the new Maisonneuve Library , described as “ a beautiful dance between eras , between exterior and interior , and between active and contemplative .”
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