Pointe-à-Callière – Montréal Archeology and History Complex

The Pointe-à-Callière Museum conforms to the triangular shape of the property, in addition to maintaining the volumetrics and proportions of the Royal Insurance building – the last one to occupy the site.

Like a missing link added to a chain, the museum unifies and restores continuity to the series of fragmented structures along de la Commune Street. The tower, which is a contemporary reflection of the former Royal Insurance building, is both symbolic and functional. Its fragmented, asymmetrical shape serves as a landmark for the museum from afar, and marks its entrance up close. Rising above the trees, it also provides a vantage onto the Old Port.


Electromechanical

Liboiron Roy Caron & Associés

Photography

Marc Cramer

Structure

Nicolet Chartrand Knoll ltée

Partners

Dan S. Hanganu architectes

Country

Canada


City

Montréal


Client

Société immobilière du patrimoine architectural de Montréal


Surface Area

11 000 m²


Year

1992


To leave existing remains undisturbed, the new building was “deposited” onto a system of strategically located pilings among the artifacts to be protected. It houses the reception area and multimedia room where visitors are given information on Montreal’s history before descending below ground. to explore the archeological layers of the building and city.

Distinctions

1994
Prix du Gouverneur Général pour l'architecture, Institut royal d'architecture du Canada.
1993
Grand prix d'architecture, Ordre des architectes du Québec.
1992
Prix Orange, catégorie insertion, Sauvons Montréal.