CHU Sainte-Justine

The seven-storey building is located to the west of the existing hospital and is connected to it via footbridges and underground passages. It is comprised of specialized pediatric and surgery wards, a 14-room surgical unit, a unit for high-risk pregnancies, a labour ward, a pediatric and neonatal intensive care unit, and medical imaging facilities. In terms of research facilities, there are laboratories, units for basic research, classrooms, evaluation-based teaching rooms, lecture halls and two auditoriums (125 and 250 seats, respectively).

The site’s close proximity to the protected area of Mount Royal informed the architects’ approach to creating a healthy environment. Based on the concept of hypernature, the project makes emphatic use of colours and elements inspired by animals and plants of the boreal forest, with spaces that allow natural light to penetrate and common areas for strolling as well as green paths linking the existing building to the new one.

Vivid colours and fun symbols abound. Designed to brighten up the day-to-day routines of the children as much as possible, they also serve as functional markers that orient users toward the various departments of the hospital. Works of art and playful objects are harmoniously interspersed throughout the building to stimulate kids’ rich imagination. Outdoors, an esplanade, a footpath and playgrounds are accessible. These public spaces play a dominant role in the overall creative approach: they give the project a soul and help eliminate the barriers that so often separate hospitals from their surroundings.