Montreal, the 16th of February 2016 – Last night, Architecture49 and JBC, in consortium, won a Grand Prix of Design (ex aequo) for the La Presse newsroom (in the Office Space, over 20,000 sq. ft. category). Neglected since 2007, the large space once housed the press room. La Presse’s major shift to digital provided the impetus for a reinvention of this space. Spread over three levels, the vast newsroom features different interconnecting areas that can be used for a variety of activities. Interventions on the building envelope as well as the use of glass and clear finishes contribute to the abundant light in the work areas of this monumental space. At the heart of Montreal, pedestrians can now see the new workspace, and can peek-in on the journalists, photographers and designers who work to produce La Presse. This thoughtful, considered architecture, where people work in a vast, airy space, captured the attention of the jury. The success of the building is due to the close collaoration between designers, architects, engineers, subcontractors and the client. The project was also nominated for a Prize by the Ordre des Architectes du Québec.

A little history

In 1955, six architects with strong personalities and varied backgrounds decided to found Affleck, Desbarats, Dimakopoulos, Lebensold, Michaud and Sise. The firm took the name of Arcop in the 70s, an acronym of Architects in Co-Partnership. Throughout its history, the firm has had a great influence on Quebec and Canadian architecture. The firm was responsible for opening the doors to contemporary architecture with a universal character. Their values, collaboration, multiculturalism and creativity and their desire to practice architecture responsibly continue to lead the agency forward.

-30-

Source :

Etienne Proulx, Marketing and business development coordinator
etienne.proulx@architecture49.com | 514 878-3941 X 257

*Photos available on request