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Agrandissement de la bibliothèque Saul-Bellow / Saul-Bellow Library Expansion

2011
Montréal, Quebec, Canada
  • Architecture for culture, research, sport or leisure
  • Division
  • Library
Project Description

The current building housing the Saul Bellow library was designed at the time to house the library of the City of Lachine, and is located at the intersection of 32nd Avenue, Lachine's main artery, and Saint- Antoine.

The Project covered by this competition is to enlarge, remodel and to conform the building, originally built in 1974, while retaining the existing structure and parking lot. It aims to update the library and to create a twenty-first century library.<

The current gross surface area of 1427m2 is increased to 2621 m2, for a net surface area of 1941 m2.

The Project aims for a LEED Gold certification and is an example in the field of sustainable development.

(From competition brief)

Vision

The new building should incorporate, entirely or in part, the current building (3100, Saint-Antoine). We want an original design, as well as functional for its operation, while being environmentally friendly in the broadest sense. We seek it to be friendly and accessible to all user groups.

The projected library is aimed towards the model of the 21st century library and the "Idea Store". The innovative image emphasizes its community orientation, creating a friendly living environment, lining up with the needs of Lachine's citizens.

Its contemporary architecture will create a space for meeting up, for creation, study, discovery and learning.

The design will include all architectural features, including built-in furniture, freestanding furniture (shelving) and signage, in a coherent way.

As sustainable development is now part of the Montreal's lifestyle, constant attention must be paid to this component.

The new library, emerging from this design exercise, will be on the cutting edge of technology, thanks to the computerized management system: Millennium.

(From competition program)