To mark the city?s 375th anniversary in 2017, the Borough of Ville-Marie will offer Montréal residents and visitors a revamped, friendlier Place Jacques-Cartier that will host lively activities year round. The borough hopes to enhance the quality of this public space and flaunt the rich heritage of this emblematic site, a prime social gathering place between the Old Port and the Cité administrative, dominated by City Hall.
?We want to make Place Jacques-Cartier a must-see focal point of Vieux-Montréal for Montrealers and visitors alike,? says Montréal Mayor Denis Coderre. ?Its design, occupancy and activity program should highlight the site?s historical character.?
Enhancing the architectural heritage
The firm Atelier VAP has been chosen to design the new occupancy and activities space at Place Jacques-Cartier. To revitalize the ambiance at Place Jacques-Cartier and facilitate events throughout the year building façades will be made more visible. Currently, these façades are masked by awnings and terrasses (patios) used only during part of the year. The terrasses will be moved to the centre of the square. Merchants, artists and visitors can enjoy new furniture (terrasses, kiosks and benches).
To protect customers from the sun and the elements, patios will be surrounded by glass walls and will feature a roof with a retractable awning. Linked to the power grid, these installations will be well lit and heated as required. The new structure also sets the stage for winter ...