Design Feature
Saul-Bellow Library
in Montréal
Chevalier Morales Architectes turns an old
library into a futuristic building.
FOLLOWING AN architectural competition, the firm Chevalier
Morales Architectes received the mandate to expand, re-design and
update an old library in Montréal, Canada, dating back to 1974. The
neighbourhood library no longer served the needs of the community
so architects Stephan Chevalier and Sergio Morales proposed plans to
transform the structure into a 21st century library which is attractive,
bright and conducive for community interactions.
The architects embarked on the project by first imagining how a
library should be 20 years in the future after urban plans have been
implemented. Factors like densification, greening and transportation
were considered.
Imagining possible future scenarios allowed the firm to propose
solutions and to put in place certain features that, in the long term,
would reduce costs and environmental impact. For example, light inlets
were strategically positioned to take into account potential expansion
plans. The 21st century library is imagined as a pivot for a dense
and dynamic area where many mixed daily activities occur. Design
approach is both global and evolutionary; with aims to address real
societal issues instead of lingering on immediate issues. The architects
have in mind to achieve LEED certification for the project as well as to
make it a good example of sustainable development.
More information at www.chevaliermorales.com
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