Station C
Station C rises at the heart of a uniquely challenging site defined by its urban and technical constraints. Bordered to the west by railway tracks, framed to the north by the Décarie Boulevard viaduct and a Canadian Pacific easement, and perched above a sloping terrain intersected by the Upper Lachine access ramp, the project masterfully transforms a complex environment into an ambitious and well-adapted architectural response.
Despite being surrounded by massive infrastructure and heavy traffic, Station C establishes a harmonious connection between residents, nature, and the city through thoughtful landscape design. The building prioritizes greening efforts, preserving mature trees along Crowley Avenue and enriching the urban intersection of Crowley/Décarie with ground-level plantings. A green alley traverses the site, leading to a shared garden designed for future social housing residents. These green spaces soften the impact of the surrounding structures, creating a peaceful oasis in a lively neighborhood.
This 20-story building comprises 287 affordable rental units designed to accommodate diverse needs. Modern, functional communal spaces enhance the residential experience, including a luminous double-height lobby, a gym with views and direct garden access, a rooftop urban chalet, and coworking spaces on the 7th floor connected to a welcoming terrace. Every detail promotes a high quality of life, from the comfort of the living spaces to the usability and universal accessibility of shared amenities.
The project's volumetry is defined by two distinctive components: the base and the tower. These elements connect on the 7th floor through a recessed section clad in light metallic panels. The six-story base is wrapped in pale clay masonry, while the tower features a white concrete panel facade. This luminous design becomes a landmark in the neighborhood, visible from surrounding arterial routes such as De Maisonneuve, Upper Lachine, and Décarie. The southwest facade integrates sun-shading slats into its concrete panels, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. The top floor of the tower is recessed, providing expansive terraces for its units.
Station C promotes an active, eco-conscious lifestyle. Located less than five minutes from the Vendôme metro and train station, it offers unparalleled access to public transit. The project includes 285 bicycle parking spaces, some of which are externally accessible, with multiple convenient locations, including a sheltered outdoor area in the garden.
The project exceeds sustainable development and social contribution goals, playing a catalytic role in the area. It guarantees affordable rents for 20% of its units and allocates a lot for the construction of approximately 50 social housing units, bolstering inclusive residential options in the neighborhood. Station C surpasses current energy performance standards by 25%, supports active mobility, and prioritizes site greening.
By integrating innovative architectural solutions, a strong environmental focus, and sensitivity to community needs, Station C is more than just a real estate project; it is a sustainable and human-centered vision for urban living.
Credit photo : Blouin Beauchamp Architectes
