Presentation of Saucier + Perrotte, architects, by Gilles Saucier and André Perrotte
Formal project
The project, based on a formal approach, proposes an elegant volumetric ensemble, integrating the two (2) studios like a pavilion in the park. The result is a strong signaling appeal, but hermetic as to the identification of the function, as much by the positioning of the entrance on the river side as by the lattice covering the fenestration. The functional organization results in an overflow of the existing slab on the façade. Because of its uniqueness, this volumetry suffers from a phased realization, as envisaged by the Circus School. The elements of the program are distributed over two levels.
The jury evaluates the projects by criteria.
STRENGTH OF IDENTITY/
The identity strength of this project is expressed in its uniqueness and the global treatment of its four (4) faces, making the existing building disappear. It is based on an articulated formal approach and not on the interplay of the facades. It proposes a clear image of a pavilion in a park whose resulting identity seems somewhat disconnected from the site.
CRITERION 1/Atmosphere
The dynamic atmosphere of the lobby is only perceptible once you enter the building, as it only has windows overlooking the river. The organization of the public spaces on two (2) levels contributes to the vertical dynamism of the hall but does not favour access to the exhibition and mediation rooms located on the floor.
CRITERION 2/The quality of the building's relationship with its site along the river and the city in a spirit of transparency
The notion of a pavilion in the park is clearly defined, but the treatment does not convince of the relevance of the solution in this site; the entrance is not very visible, although it is well focused on the river. The notion of transparency is difficult to assess in terms of the mesh concept. Transparency is more effective from the inside out than the other way around.
CRITERION 3/Functionality and innovation of the ensemble
The organizational design proposes a distribution of public functions on two (2) levels, which is detrimental to the traffic of those located on the first floor, the exhibition and mediation room. The itinerary imposes a well-choreographed but restrictive circuit that is not very flexible in operational terms. The entrance, although served by a landing, is considered too far from the parking lot. The access to the roof seems forced and not very beneficial to the project.
CRITERION 4/Integration of massing and materiality
This party proposes an interesting volumetry because it is treated as a whole on its four (4) faces; the result is an attractive, unique object, in full control of the existing building context. Articulated in four (4) integrated volumes, the one housing the stage house, located in front of the city, appears voluminous and massive; the angulation of the base of the wall will not be perceived from Lasalle Boulevard. The formal ensemble creates a strong appeal while being hermetic to the park and the city.
CRITERION 5/Technical Feasibility and Budget Potential
Saucier + Perrotte's project has the highest slab overhang and the largest envelope.
(From jury report)
(Unofficial automated translation)
14 scanned / 12 viewable
- Presentation Panel
- Presentation Panel
- Perspective
- Perspective
- Plan
- Plan
- Plan
- Plan
- Section
- Elevation
- Elevation
- Axonometric Drawing
