Decelles Building – HEC Montréal

Country Canada
City Montréal
Client HEC Montréal
Surface area 8,900m²
Year 2012

The HEC Montréal building is emblematic of the Brutalist architecture of the 1970s. The austerity of the massive concrete façades, with their minimal openings, has earned them the nickname “Bunker”.

The two floors of classrooms slated for redevelopment were actually completely windowless. The redesign work restored HEC Montréal’s characteristic dynamism to the renovated spaces. Bay windows create a brighter ambiance and showcase the institution, while a remodelling of interiors completely transforms the space.

Exterior of Decelles Building-HEC Montréal

The conceptual approach demonstrates a willingness to use a contemporary language without betraying the original building’s character. The interior architecture helps create a new learning environment in keeping with trends in university education, identified in collaboration with the HEC administration, professors and students.

The emphasis is on interactive learning and incorporating the latest technologies, an area in which the project sets an example. Completed in phases in an occupied building and to a tight schedule, the project achieved its primary objective by providing the HEC Montréal community with facilities that meet its expectations and reflect the institution’s international reputation.