Nouvelle-Ère High School

Following an L-shaped plan that opens onto an adjacent wooded area, the building is composed of a three-storey main wing running along Fraser Road (formerly Duchesnay Road) and a two-storey wing dedicated to athletic facilities, extending toward the rear of the site and featuring a separate entrance for community use.

The school’s program is organized around a central gathering space—the most vibrant and active area of the building. Framed by a monumental staircase and a mezzanine-level corridor leading to classrooms, the library, and a rooftop terrace, this hub also opens directly onto the rear courtyard, creating a natural amphitheatre that seamlessly extends the learning environment outdoors.

The school offers a comprehensive program that includes regular and specialized classrooms, laboratories, dedicated spaces for the arts, technology, and robotics, as well as extensive athletic and community facilities. Organized around a large double-height central atrium designed as an agora, it encourages interaction, collaboration, and a vibrant school life. Bright, welcoming spaces, a mezzanine library, a rooftop terrace, and a green roof all contribute to creating a stimulating, inclusive learning environment that is closely connected to its surroundings.

Despite the dense building massing imposed by the site and program requirements, the school presents a warm and welcoming architectural expression through a carefully crafted envelope that combines naturally toned brick, wood, and aluminum. Generous glazing and thoughtful architectural detailing enhance both its urban presence and the quality of its interior spaces. The design also promotes well-being and sustainable mobility through integrated running tracks, covered bicycle parking, and universal accessibility throughout the building.