+ An industrial emblem, the mill holds important symbolic value in the Montreal landscape. It also contributes to the character of the South-West Saint Gabriel lock. Because of this, the Redpath Sugar mill represents a cultural interest, as recognized by Parks Canada and the City of Montreal.
Between 1854 and 1963, the industrial complex underwent many modifications and adjustments. These systematic updates allowed the mill to maintain its operations for 125 years. Abandoned for more than a decade, the Redpath preserved its most significant buildings from its prosperous era. Five of these buildings were recycled into housing and commercial businesses in the first phase, and five others have been reconverted in subsequent phases.
A great challenge On a larger scale, the project constitutes a residential block composed of commercial spaces on the main floor. Amid the technical and logistical challenges, the developer wanted to pursue the construction of residential lofts within these industrial brushlands. The current residents of the complex appreciate its specific industrial character and the exceptional attractions of the sector: the banks of the canal that have re-opened to nautical activities, amazing views of the mountain and downtown, a linear park, a bike path, etc.
The façades of the exterior perimeter, canal side, maintain an order and proportion similar to the orignal buildings. No architectural component that could be associated with domestic use is visible from the other street facades. Only the interior court assumes this aspect, by means of walkways, terraces and exits.
The commercial spaces have distinct entrances that give directly onto the courtyard. The presence of commercial spaces also encourages contact with the canal’s public spaces. Hence, the courtyard constitutes a transition gateway as much for the residents as for the public. Its simple and elegant layout reinforces the architectural sobriety of the whole.
The courtyard is mainly composed of a grass garden, vines and shrubs, punctuated by willows suggesting the presence of water.The group of buildings that comprise the old Redpath Sugar mill constitutes a patrimonial richness that defines its location. The Redpath Sugar mill has definitively risen from the ashes due to a complex and sensitive restoration and recyling operation. This translates into a mix-use project of residences and businesses that preserves the extraordinary uniqueness of the site.
About Groupe Cardinal Hardy The name Groupe Cardinal Hardy honours environmental design in the world. As landscape architects, architects, and urban planners, some seventy men and women, four associates and two founders – architect and planner Aurèle Cardinal and architect Michel Hardy – continue the work begun in 1986: building environments on a human scale.The firm's practice is rooted in the meaning of the built environment. Space is its tool and identity its language. Cardinal Hardy – not only in Quebec, but now also in Latin America and the Middle East – has reinvented the approach to site by embracing the contours of urban cultures. In its search of authenticity, the Groupe builds continuity: the classical rationalism of its projects aims to achieve essential forms that will endure. Always contemporary, anchored in today's world, the vocabulary of Cardinal Hardy transcends image: each project is a piece of the environment that bridges the past and future cityscape.
For more information visit :www.cardinal-hardy.ca -30-
