Méridien

Located at the corner of Ontario Street and Saint-Laurent Boulevard, the Méridien project seizes the opportunity to revitalize and enhance a site of exceptional urban value. Facing challenges of densification, the architectural approach skillfully transforms these into opportunities, strengthening the unique character of each adjoining artery. This mixed-use project creates a vibrant and economically sustainable living environment, catering to a student clientele that will invigorate the cultural and commercial activity of the neighborhood.

The development comprises 272 rooms across 167 units over 13 stories, with two commercial spaces animating Saint-Laurent Boulevard and Ontario Street. Designed in collaboration with the nonprofit UTILE, Méridien provides affordable, off-market housing for downtown students. Exemplary universal accessibility is ensured in all communal areas and over 20% of the units. Through synergy between the building envelope and mechanical systems, the project achieves a 36% reduction in energy consumption and integrates numerous measures to ensure operational sustainability and resident well-being.

Marking the prominent corner of the block, the building's profile complements the urban landscape of Saint-Laurent Boulevard while reinforcing the iconic built environment of the intersection. The inner portion of the block adopts a more traditional three-story height, with careful sculpting to maintain visual corridors, minimize blind walls, and align with neighboring building heights. A subtle setback at the fourth floor, combined with a material shift, defines the base of three stories, creating harmony with the surrounding structures. Additional setbacks centralize the taller massing, leaving room for a green roof along Saint-Dominique Street. A shared terrace on the 13th floor features planting boxes overlooking Saint-Dominique, adding communal green space to the design.

The architectural response draws inspiration from the typomorphology of the historic buildings that define this intersection. Rounded edges, an angled corner entrance, and a brick facade with natural Indiana stone inserts reinterpret iconic local elements in a contemporary manner. The detailing of recessed brickwork and window arrangements underscores the three-story base while evoking a modern tripartite composition.

An atypical gap between buildings on Ontario Street is transformed into a pedestrian-friendly feature. This urban interstice accommodates the building's main entrance, a landscaped area on private property, and an efficient waste management system that keeps the narrow sidewalk uncluttered.

Balancing tradition and innovation, Méridien addresses the challenges of thoughtful densification while highlighting the site's strengths. By respecting the built heritage and proposing sustainable, human-scale architecture, the project resonates with the spirit of this unique neighborhood.