The library configuration, designed by Eric Pelletier + Cardinal Hardy (both assimilated in Lemay) and Labonté Marcil architects, is determined so as to enable multiple paths to discover the inner spaces. Such multiplicity blurs the boundary between architecture and nature, in a way that transforms the building into the meeting point of these two worlds. The volume of the library is the result of understanding the building as a part of the landscape, with its ups and downs, expansions, and contractions. The wavy wooden facade supports this external perception.
Description of the project by Lemay
The Bibliothèque du Boisé, designed by the consortium Eric Pelletier, Cardinal Hardy - two firms that joined Lemay in 2013 and 2014 respectively - and Labonté Marcil architects, has won the Grand Prix of Excellence of the Ordre des Architectes du Québec (OAQ) 2015.
Rewarding the Bibliothèque du Boisé appeared to be obvious for all members of the jury:
"This is a very successful project that includes indoor and outdoor public spaces. Far from being a simple assemblage, every space and every square meter is beautiful, from volume to perspective, from ceiling details to materials and furniture. Tremendous work has been performed to translate this excellence inside out. The building is uniquely built into the site it takes to grips with the landscape. His sculptural silhouette is elegant, thanks to its wave wood."
The Bibliothèque du Boisé aims to become a place fostering a feeling of belonging, promoting exploration and discovery. Located between Thimens Boulevard and Marcel-Laurin Park, it covers a surface area of 5,000 sqm and is integrated into the site by drawing on its major elements. This isn’t a project about architecture alone: it’s also about landscape. As such, this certified LEED Platinum building connects the city with the surrounding landscape and serves as a point of connection that allows users to explore its site—inside and outside, from Boulevard Thimens as well as from the park. Visitors will discover the building by approaching it from a variety of spaces both intimate and dramatic, spaces that, by offering a variety of access pathways, set the stage for the site as well as for its users.
In this project, architecture is landscape and landscape is architecture. The architecture changes shape, unfolds, spreads out, and rises up, reducing the boundaries between the built space and the site. There are several means of access to the building - all of which encourage interaction and discovery. Therefore, the library is not an architectural gesture, but rather an act of communication and exchange. It gives the collectivity the opportunity to get together and know each other.
Far from a monumental approach, the library is integrated into a natural and urban context, it adds richness to the site, helps to define the space, and offers a simple and universal reading. A true reflection of the human condition, of the fate of a changing landscape, of its architecture, the Bibliothèque du Boisé created a significant identity hub as well as a rich, dynamic, and open space where boundaries are redefined to foster discovery, learning, and a sense of belonging for the entire community.
Lemay. Founded in 1957 as an architectural firm, Lemay is one of Canada’s leading integrated environmental design firms, combining architecture, urban design, interior design, landscape architecture, structural engineering, and branding into a multidisciplinary and synergetic offer. Now well established in Canada, the United States, China, Algeria, Costa Rica, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, Lemay brings together nearly 350 professionals who offer their creativity to support their clients’ business strategies.
Recognized by Deloitte as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies, Lemay is also a leader among integrated design firms. Lemay—one of Canada's most-awarded firms— creates distinctive projects of all scales and complexities. In recent years, Lemay has been the driving force behind several landmark projects that have garnered attention here and abroad, most notably the New City of El-Menia in Algeria, the STM Stinson transport center, the Place d'Armes, the Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, the Mount Stephen Hotel Complex, the Astral Head Office and the Centre Bell (in a consortium).
