J.-A.-DeSève Pavilion – UQAM

Built in the heart of Montréal’s Quartier latin, the Phase IV pavilion contributes to the intelligent and human-scale redevelopment of an urban block long left neglected. Its massing pays respect to the site’s urban memory. As a welcoming and communal space for the entire UQAM student body, the pavilion brings together a range of student services, the School of Languages, the Departments of Linguistics and Psychology, as well as the university’s IT and telecommunications services—all under one roof. 

The functional program of Phase IV shaped the pavilion into three distinct volumes—north, east, and south—organized around a true urban square that forms an integral part of the architectural concept. From within the building, this public square remains visible on all levels through openings, glazing, and windows. It serves as a point of orientation, a source of clarity, and a place of comfort.

Every space in the project reflects the shared ambition of the architect and the client to push boundaries and deliver a high-quality building, despite a limited budget.