Size:
Completion: 2010
GM - an extension of Le Quartier Concordia
Le Quartier Concordia, originally proposed in 2001 as part of the KPMB/FSA winning design competition submission, envisaged the new EV and JMSB buildings as catalysts for a larger public realm city-building initiative which would dramatically alter the perception of the University within the heart of downtown Montreal. The redevelopment of Place Norman Bethune and re-cladding initiative for the GM building are exciting components in the realization of this vision for which we remain wholly dedicated and enthusiastic.
Extending the Architectural Language of EV/JMSB
The design spirit of the original “copper blade wall’ incorporated into both EV and JMSB, is extended and updated in our Guy Metro building proposal becoming a branding element on the east side of the building, a canopy for an outdoor terrace at the top, and a horizontal datum line to re-proportion the base of the existing façade on deMaisonneuve and Guy streets.
Updating the Curtain Wall System
The proposed curtain wall cladding is an architectural evolution of the glass and wall systems developed for the ENCS/VA and JMSB buildings. Vertical proportions are emphasized in the curtain wall module setting up a system that allows individual panels to be clear or opaque spandrel thereby achieving varying degrees of transparency/opacity responding to orientation and LEED best practices. Horizontal spandrels are shadow box type to visually recede. Their height varies to maximize the vertical glazing on the north and west facades and to accommodate the existing heating cabinets on the south and east facades. The existing mechanical penthouse cladding is updated, and a simple cable support frame for climbing vines is added to create a vertical green wall prominent from the surrounding campus buildings.
Treatment of the Public Realm
At the ground floor the ENCS/VA Guy Street aluminium canopy is extending north over the entrance to the Metro. A fully glazed reveal detail between the canopy and the facade of the GM building ensures good natural day lighting down the face of the retail stores and Metro entrance. A retail sign band is created at the base with more prominent building name signage proposed as three dimensional cut out letters riding the edge of the canopies. On the north side a glass canopy is envisioned at the entrance to the GM building.
Lobby Renovations: a simple and elegant update
In the GM lobby we propose to retain the handsome travertine stone wall cladding and stainless steel elevator fronts, and update this space of arrival with a special plaster ceiling and elegant lighting. Stainless steel mesh is proposed for the elevator cab interiors. The black granite flooring from the ENCS/VA concourse to the south, is extended into the lobby to provide visual continuity between the two spaces. A new stone and glass reception desk will provide for both reception of visitors and discreet security for the administrative offices of the University.
