Esplanade de la Place des Arts

Country Canada
City Montréal
Customer Société de la Place des Arts
Surface area 15,000 m²
Year 2018

The Place des Arts Esplanade was expanded and renovated in 2018, allowing it to fully reclaim its role as a gathering place at the heart of Montréal’s cultural life.

Taking advantage of the opportunity presented by major repair work, the Place des Arts administration reconfigured the Esplanade, which now hosts a rich and diverse range of artistic and festival programming that goes far beyond its original purpose.

View of Esplanade de la Place des Arts and the fountains

Water, now one of the site’s main attractions, is featured through the addition of two reflecting pools. Special attention was also given to the technical infrastructure, offering artists and lighting designers a wide range of creative possibilities. Several trees and shrubs were planted throughout parts of the site, adding a green touch to the urban setting.

View of the stairs of Esplanade de la Place des Arts

The new concept centred on levelling the Esplanade’s main platform, transforming it into a large urban lawn—more accessible, more versatile, and more user-friendly than the previous multi-tiered configuration.

On the technical side, a discreet anchoring system integrated into the paving stones—designed by industrial designer Michel Dallaire—facilitates the installation of tents, shelters, and other temporary structures for performances and events. Trenches for electrical wiring and water supply points further simplify setup and takedown operations.