Saint Joseph?s Oratory in Montreal is a landmark on Mount Royal with significant cultural and natural value. The most visited building in the province, it welcomes some 2 million visitors every year. The project, a new reception pavilion and reconfiguration of the Sacred Axis and exterior site, creates a newly contemporary yet respectful architectural identity through thoughtful and meaningful design strategies.
The first phase of the work aims to improve and facilitate visitor access to the entire site, including for people with limited mobility, by creating a new indoor route connected to pilgrimage services: reception, boutique and food services. It also includes the creation of a public square, to be named la Place de la Sainte-Famille (Holy Family Plaza) and the relocation and refurbishment of the Oratory?s carillon?one of only 11 carillons in Canada and the only one in the province of Quebec. The carillon has a rich history. The Paccard Bell Foundry of Annecy-le-Vieux in France originally cast the bells for the Eiffel Tower, but they were never installed. In 1954, the carillon was loaned to the Oratory, and generous pilgrims later purchased the bells for the sanctuary. Their distinct sound now offers an opportunity to enhance pilgrims? spiritual journey of ascension up the mountain.
The intervention is framed by the heroic architecture of the Oratory, in dialogue with the mountain?s topography and morphology. It enhances the site as a place of welcome, peacefulness, l...