What if architecture could change the way we look at aging? In Beloeil, the newly designed shared spaces of the Cloria residence are doing exactly that. Designed by Taktik Design, this fresh approach to senior living leaves outdated conventions behind. Instead of rigid schedules and clinical spaces, the design encourages autonomy, freedom, and a vibrant sense of community. Image courtesy of: Maxime Brouillet Since 2018, Taktik has been shaping the heart of Cloria’s living environments. Their goal is simple but powerful: create common areas that spark connections, feel just like home, and support a completely new way to experience retirement. A Home, Not an Institution At the Beloeil residence, private and shared spaces blend naturally, making everyday encounters effortless. The design intentionally moves away from what people typically expect a senior living facility to look like. “The success of the project lies precisely in the fact that it doesn’t feel like entering a retirement residence. Of course, we ensured ergonomics adapted to the users by avoiding seating that is too low, but above all, we sought to break free from the aesthetic codes usually associated with this type of environment, in favour of a more contemporary and universal language.” Alexa Adam, interior designer and project manager at Taktik. The Heart of the Community The experience begins the moment you walk through the doors. A bold gold zinc logo sets the tone, opening up to a bright, welcoming lounge. The material palette is modern and restrained—featuring concrete, metal, and pale wood—but comforting textures and soft fabrics instantly warm it up. The true anchor of the building is a stunning circular hub built around a custom indoor planter. From this central point, corridors stretch out in a star shape. This layout is not just beautiful; it makes finding your way intuitive and creates endless opportunities to bump into a neighbour or get pulled into a new activity. "The common spaces support spontaneous activities. Here, residents take charge of community life—there is no programmed calendar of activities organized by the residence." Alexa Adam, interior designer and project manager at Taktik. Rather than relying on a strict, facility-run calendar of events, the design empowers residents to take charge of their own community life. Spaces Made for Connection Every corner of the Cloria residence is crafted to bring people together: The Billiard Room: A lively space for friendly games, featuring cozy banquettes, soft lighting, and a large wall-mounted library where residents can share books. A clever fluted glass wall lets light pour in while keeping the space feeling intimate. The Sage Green Kitchen: Built for shared cooking and hosting, this stunning kitchen features a large stainless steel counter and a central island. A sliding curtain and slatted wood screen allow residents to open the space up for a big party or close it off for a quiet dinner. The Bistro Nook: Just across the hall, a dining area with bistro-style tables, planters, and a full-height mirror creates the perfect spot for a morning coffee. The Lounge: Centred around a warm gas fireplace, this cozy retreat is filled with rounded armchairs in calming, natural tones. It is a favourite spot for reading, quiet chats, or just relaxing. For more focused activities, the residence also includes a dedicated board game room and a high-tech meeting room ready for video calls and presentations. Designing for the Future Ultimately, the Cloria residence in Beloeil proves that designing for seniors does not mean sacrificing style or independence. By balancing quiet intimacy with vibrant community spaces, Taktik has created an environment where residents don't just age—they thrive. "In retirement, people want to enjoy life, stay active, and keep moving—and the space reflects these aspirations: living in an environment that supports activity, autonomy, and sociability.” Nicola Tardif-Bourdages, designer, founder, and president of Taktik Design. Image courtesy of: Maxime Brouillet About Taktik Design Taktik Design is a Montreal-based company that is close to people and attentive to its customers and their needs. The understanding of places and their functionalities is at the heart of their approach and concepts. Comprising a creative and passionate team, Taktik Design constantly innovates to improve the use of spaces and to create unique worlds. For Taktik Design, a successful space cannot be summed up by its aesthetics alone, but also by its ability to create a link between its users and the created environment. Press release source: v2com-newswire

When we think of a typical school, we usually picture a single, large building with long hallways and uniform classrooms. The Educational Complex Sirius takes that traditional idea and turns it completely upside down. Recently named a finalist in the 2025 WAF Future Projects: Education awards, Sirius is not just a school—it is a decentralized urban campus designed to function as a vibrant "miniature city." Image courtesy of: ATRIUM By breaking away from the standard single-building model, the project introduces a fresh, community-focused approach to educational architecture. Four Clusters, One Connected Campus Instead of housing everyone under one roof, the Sirius complex is divided into four distinct hubs: a primary school, a secondary school, a sports cluster, and a congress centre. What brings these separate spaces together is a thoughtfully designed network of public spaces. Boulevards, open plazas, green parks, and communal courtyards weave between the buildings, replacing traditional hallways with actual city-like streets and squares. For the students, moving between classes feels like walking through a lively, safe neighbourhood. To ensure comfort and safety year-round, all four main blocks are also linked on the second floor by enclosed pedestrian bridges, offering weather-protected routes across the campus. Image courtesy of: ATRIUM Spaces that Adapt and Inspire At the heart of each building is a central atrium—a bright, open hub perfect for student gatherings, informal learning, and community events. The interior spaces are designed entirely around flexibility. Traditional classrooms are a thing of the past; instead, movable partitions allow rooms to expand or shrink on demand. Whether it is a quiet double-period lesson, a large public lecture, or an academic competition, the rooms effortlessly adapt to the evolving ways we teach and learn. Beyond standard classrooms, the complex is packed with specialized zones. Students have access to group study pods, open workshops, art and tech clusters, and natural science labs. A standout feature is the system of specialized libraries that act as collaborative hubs, encouraging students of different ages to team up and mentor one another. Rooted in Nature and Sustainability Designed to embrace a warm southern climate, the complex blurs the line between the indoors and the outdoors. Expansive green roofs, shaded terraces, and elevated outdoor dining areas double as observation decks. Because the campus sits right next to an ornithological park, these outdoor platforms give students a front-row seat to wildlife observation and hands-on environmental education. Sustainability is woven into every inch of the design. The campus generates its own renewable energy through photovoltaic solar panels, while CO₂ sensors constantly monitor and adjust indoor air quality. The buildings are specifically oriented to maximize natural daylight and cross-ventilation, and smart rainwater management systems feed into the continuous green framework that ties the whole site together. Resilient and Open to the Community Sirius is built to be as tough as it is beautiful. Elevated to mitigate flood risks and engineered to withstand seismic activity up to a magnitude 9 earthquake, the campus is a fortress of safety. However, its resilience does not mean it is closed off. The public-facing layout allows the individual blocks—like the sports cluster and congress centre—to operate completely independently outside of school hours. This clever urban planning transforms the school from a daytime-only facility into a permanent cultural and leisure destination for the entire district. The Educational Complex Sirius is more than just an architectural achievement; it is a blueprint for the future of learning, proving that schools can be sustainable, resilient, and deeply integrated into the communities they serve. About ATRIUM ATRIUM is an international architectural practice, founded in 1994 by Anton Nadtochiy and Vera Butko. The studio is known for its conceptual rigour and contextual sensitivity across diverse typologies, including public institutions, educational complexes, transport infrastructure, and private commissions. The studio’s work balances innovation with cultural resonance, often exploring the intersection of technology, ecology, and social function. ATRIUM’s projects have been recognized globally, including multiple nominations at the World Architecture Festival (WAF), AR Future Projects Awards, Architizer A+Awards, and others. Among the studio’s notable projects are the Symbol Residential Complex, Green River Park, the Ruarts Gallery and Museum, the Park of Future Generations (Yakutsk), and Quantum School (Astana). Press release source: v2com-newswire

When we think about the future of our cities, it is not just about the buildings that fill the skyline. It is about how people move, how communities connect, and how urban spaces adapt to a changing world. Recognizing the need for this big-picture thinking, the global design firm CannonDesign has officially welcomed Cityfi into its consulting practice. Image courtesy of: CannonDesign Cityfi is a highly respected innovation firm focused on the future of civic life and urban mobility. By bringing these two powerhouses together, the partnership promises to shape smarter, stronger, and more resilient communities. A Bold Approach to Urban Challenges Cityfi is not a traditional consulting firm. Made up of strategists, policy experts, and designers, the team excels at helping both public and private organizations navigate complex changes. When the old rulebook no longer works, Cityfi helps cities adapt. Their work tackles some of the most pressing issues of our time, including: Integrating advanced technologies into city life. Developing inclusive and sustainable transportation. Adapting to climate change and shifting funding needs. Reimagining public spaces so they work for everyone. Juliet Rogers, Chief Strategy Officer at CannonDesign, describes Cityfi as a "bold, gutsy company"willing to take on challenges others might avoid. By joining CannonDesign, Cityfi will help push innovative, big-picture thinking to the very beginning of the design process. Image courtesy of: CannonDesign Knocking Down Silos Whether it is a bustling city, a massive health system, or a growing university campus, many organizations face the same challenges. By teaming up, CannonDesign and Cityfi can look at these challenges holistically. “CannonDesign is a force multiplier,” says Karina Ricks, a Partner at Cityfi. She notes that by combining Cityfi’s multidimensional strategies with CannonDesign’s exceptional talent in design, analysis, and community health, the combined team can deliver truly measurable results for their clients. Story Bellows, another Cityfi Partner, echoes this excitement, emphasizing that their core mission remains unchanged: to create accessible, equitable, and resilient communities that genuinely improve people’s lives. Proven Real-World Impact Both organizations bring incredible portfolios to the table. Cityfi operates across the US and Europe, advising major tech and mobility innovators like Waymo and Verizon, alongside city leaders in New York, Los Angeles, Copenhagen, and beyond. This deep expertise perfectly complements CannonDesign’s own impactful civic work, which includes: The Carnegie Branch Renovations for the New York Public Libraries. An equitable aquatics ecosystem in Baltimore. The Seattle Ferry Terminal Building. 201 Ellicott, an affordable housing complex in Buffalo featuring the city's first mobility hub. A Vision for the Future Cityfi will keep its name and continue to operate as usual, while seamlessly integrating into CannonDesign’s broader consulting team. This partnership is just the latest in a series of strategic moves by CannonDesign. Driven to solve challenges across the entire built environment, the firm has been rapidly growing. In recent months, they have added some top-tier firms to their roster—including Ennead Architects, Scion Advisory Services, and experts in smart-building consulting—proving that they are building a uniquely powerful team for the future. As cities become more complex, the combination of brilliant strategy and beautiful, functional design has never been more important. With Cityfi now on board, CannonDesign is more ready than ever to build the cities of tomorrow. About CannonDesign  CannonDesign is a global, employee-owned design firm with 20 offices and an integrated community of practices united by a shared commitment to Living-Centred Design. In the last 15 years, the firm has received more than 600 awards for design excellence. Alongside its leadership in architecture, engineering, and interior design, the firm’s community includes smart building consultancy  The Clarient Group, architectural experimentation laboratory Yazdani Studio, building transition and activation firm Yellow Brick, facility optimization firm FOS, and experience, operations, and strategy consulting firm Blue Cottage. This breadth of expertise fuels a more dynamic and expansive way of practicing design and is one of the reasons it’s been recognized by Fast Company, Fortune, TIME, and others as one of the most innovative and influential companies of our time. Press release source: v2com-newswire

For more than a century, the Allan Gardens Palm House has been a glowing jewel in the heart of downtown Toronto. Built in 1910 and standing as one of Canada’s last remaining Edwardian-era glass conservatories, this architectural landmark has long been a beloved green sanctuary for the city. Image courtesy of: Adrien Williams Now, following an ambitious $11-million revitalization, the Palm House is stepping into its next century with a major accolade: the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award from the Ontario Heritage Trust. The award celebrates an outstanding contribution to heritage conservation in Ontario, but the true prize is the building itself—restored, resilient, and ready to welcome a new generation. Reclaiming a Civic Landmark Led by the City of Toronto alongside Zeidler Architecture and heritage experts AREA (Architects Rasch Eckler Associates Ltd.), the restoration was a delicate balancing act. The goal was simple but challenging: preserve the building's historic soul while upgrading it to meet modern standards of safety, accessibility, and environmental performance. One of the most exciting achievements of the project was bringing back the original east entrance. Removed in the mid-1900s, this historic entryway has been carefully reconstructed to reconnect the building with its front plaza. More importantly, the new entrance is entirely barrier-free, ensuring that this civic space is welcoming and accessible to everyone. Image courtesy of: Adrien Williams Modern Tech Meets Historic Charm When restoring a 115-year-old glasshouse, the details matter. The team went to great lengths to ensure the original 1909 design by City Architect Robert McCallum remained perfectly intact. Smarter Glass: The breathtaking 16-sided glass dome and cupolas were replaced with modern laminated glass. This new glass features a subtle ceramic pattern that helps reduce the sun's intense heat during the summer, all while preserving the building's signature, luminous glow. Authentic Stone and Wood: The intricate stonework, wood details, and historic windows were meticulously repaired. The team even sourced new sandstone from the same quarry used for the original construction to ensure a perfect match. Open to the Public: Remarkably, the conservatory kept its doors open to the public throughout the entire construction process, proving just how vital this green oasis is to the downtown community. A Catalyst for the Future The success of the Palm House restoration is just the beginning. Backed by the Friends of Allan Gardens, this project is part of a much larger vision to breathe new life into the entire conservatory complex. Originally designed as a vibrant hub for concerts, exhibitions, and community gatherings, Allan Gardens has always been a cultural stage for Toronto. The beautifully restored Palm House proves what is possible when heritage conservation and inclusive design work hand-in-hand. As public momentum continues to build, the Palm House stands as a shining example of urban heritage. It reminds us that our historic spaces are not just relics of the past—they are living, breathing parts of our cities that, with a little care, will continue to frame the sky for centuries to come. Technical sheet & Credits Client: City of Toronto Design and Executive Architects: Zeidler Architecture Inc. Heritage Architect: Architects Rasch Eckler Associates Ltd. (AREA) Structural Engineer/Glazing: Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd. (RJC) Mechanical + Electrical Engineer: The HIDI Group Inc. Contractor: HRI Group About Zeidler Zeidler is a leading Canadian architecture and interior design practice with a portfolio of award-winning, inspiring work that fosters social engagement, facilitates excellence, and delivers lasting value. The firm believes that architecture should enrich lives and strengthen communities. Driven by curiosity and guided by evidence, they embrace innovation in sustainability, accessibility, design theory, and materiality. Zeidler works closely with clients and communities to design resilient environments that foster connection, promote well-being, and achieve long-term impact. At Zeidler, they don’t just design buildings—they shape resilient environments that help shape the future. Press release source: v2com-newswire

Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage district of Old Quebec, a historic building is embarking on an exciting new chapter. La Caserne, originally built in 1912 as a fire station and famously expanded in 1996 for Robert Lepage’s artistic laboratory, Ex Machina, has been transformed once again. Now home to the youth theatre company Les Gros Becs, this iconic space has been reimagined as a vibrant cultural hub designed specifically for young audiences. Image courtesy of: James Brittain The new design required expanding the site to include a 350-seat theatre and a multifunctional hall, all while respecting the deep historical roots of the surrounding city. The result is a masterclass in architectural storytelling—a smart, engaging space where the past and the future meet. A Dialogue Between Old and New The vision for the new La Caserne was built on conversation: a dialogue between the historic city and modern design, between the old fire station and the new theatre, and—most importantly—between the building and the youth it now serves. The transformation begins right at the street level. At the corner of Dalhousie and Barricade streets, a newly created piazzetta adorned with public art serves as a lively gathering space. It opens up the site to the surrounding landmarks, including the Musée de la Civilisation and the St. Lawrence River. The new additions feature clean, sober lines that act as a quiet backdrop, allowing the historic fire station—and its striking tower—to shine as a proud landmark in the city’s skyline. A Welcoming Journey To connect the public entrance on Dalhousie Street with the school group entrance on Bell Street, the architects carved a smart, open pathway straight through the preserved buildings. To signal the building's fresh, youthful identity, visitors are greeted by a striking blue glass door, paired beautifully with the original wooden doors. Once inside, the floor continues this vibrant blue theme, a subtle and poetic nod to the nearby St. Lawrence River flowing just outside. As visitors move through the heart of the foyer, an open staircase guides them upward, kicking off a playful and engaging journey: The Reveal: As you climb the stairs, the historic fire station tower gradually reveals itself through a beautifully glazed lantern ceiling. The Reading Room: Located on the second floor of the original fire station, this space is flooded with natural light from the building's tall, historic windows. The Multifunctional Hall: Up on the third floor, dormer windows pierce the west-facing roof, drawing natural light into the foyer, while a small triangular terrace offers administrative staff sweeping views of the river. Colours and Reflections The interior spaces are designed to capture the imagination of young audiences while paying respect to the original architecture. The designers achieved this through a clever use of materials and colours: Ground Floor: Mirrored stainless-steel walls reflect the movement of excited theatre-goers and mimic the grey stone of the original building. Second Floor: A metallic copper finish beautifully resonates with the historic orange brick of the original walls. Third Floor: Metallic gold tones and warm wood cladding answer the original wood of the historic roof. At the very center of the project lies the new theatre hall itself, which wraps its audience in a cozy, inviting atmosphere using four distinct shades of wood. Built for the Future La Caserne isn’t just beautiful; it is deeply rooted in sustainability. The architects embraced an ecological concept known as circularity—the practice of reusing and recycling existing resources rather than starting from scratch. Instead of tearing down the past, the new project integrates, renovates, and restores both the 1912 fire station and the 1996 Ex Machina building. The existing concrete and steel structures were preserved and strengthened, and the black granite from the previous building's exterior was carefully recycled. Finally, the new modern glass envelope was built with high-performance energy systems, ensuring that La Caserne is as durable and eco-friendly as it is stunning. By blending rich history with playful, sustainable modern design, the new La Caserne stands ready to inspire the next generation of theatre lovers for decades to come. Project Details Project name: La Caserne – scène jeune public Location: 103 Dalhousie Street, Quebec - 110 Bell Street, Quebec Client: La Caserne – scène jeune public Architects: SBTA Inc., Delort and Brochu Architectes Project team (design and construction): Dino Barbarese, Vladimir Topouzanov, Sophie Trépanier-Laplante, Christopher Dubé, Marc Pape, Anna Zakharova, Louis-Guillaume Paquet, Flavia Socol, Julien Denault, Geneviève Deguire, Cédric Delort, Jean Brochu, Caroline Vinatier, Ghislain Dubé, Hugo Sénéchal, Caroline Lévesque, Léa Pasquet, Jonathan Estrade, Pierre Lépine Structural/Civil: NCK Inc. Mechanical/Electrical: Dupras Ledoux Inc. Scenography: Trizart Alliance Acoustics: Bouthillette Parizeau Vertical transportation: JMCI Inc. Project management: WSP Artist (1% program): Jean-Robert Drouillard General contractor: Les Constructions Béland & Lapointe Construction budget: $24,672,000 About Saia Barbarese Topouzanov Architects (SBTA Inc.) Founded by Mario Saia in 1968, with Dino Barbarese and Vladimir Topouzanov joining as partners in 1987 and 2002, respectively, Saia Barbarese Topouzanov Architects is a firm dedicated to the practice of architecture and urban design. Clear concepts that structure even the most complex projects, the sense of conviviality they foster, the presence of light, and a contemporary architectural vocabulary all characterize the firm’s work. The office has diverse expertise in urban projects, collective housing, and institutional projects (universities, sports centers, theatres, etc.). Since 2013, Dino Barbarese has worked primarily as a Project Architect, and Vladimir Topouzanov as a Design Lead. Saia Barbarese Topouzanov Architects has completed numerous projects that have been recognized for their integration with the environment, quality of design, respect for the human scale, and operating efficiency. The most important Canadian, Quebec, and local organizations devoted to architecture and patrimony conservation have rewarded the firm with numerous prizes, including the Gold Medal from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, two Governor General’s Medals, and fifteen awards from the Ordre des architectes du Québec. Recognition of the firm also includes a Hue Award (San Francisco) and Wood Design Magazine; two Best of Canada Design Awards, Mitra Milan, and seven awards from Save Montreal and the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. The firm’s projects have also been featured in publications in Canada and abroad, including in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, China, France, Germany, Holland, Italy, Korea, Russia, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Press release source: v2com-newswire

Lighting is no longer just about illuminating a room; it is about making a statement. Luminaire Authentik has recently unveiled FORMA, a striking new collection that sits perfectly at the intersection of minimalism and postmodernism. With FORMA, light transforms into a visual language of its own. Image courtesy of: Luminaire Authentik The Beauty of the Visible In traditional lighting design, the mechanical details—the ceiling plates, connection points, and structural supports—are usually tucked away out of sight. The FORMA collection takes a radically different approach. What was once concealed is now completely intentional. Every single element is celebrated as part of a visible, interconnected system. Rather than hiding the hardware, FORMA embraces it, turning the structural components into the very core of the fixture's identity. An Assembly Language of Light Designed to act as a true "assembly language," FORMA is not just a static light fixture. It is a dynamic design concept that allows compositions to be built, reworked, and expanded to fit any space. Because no two spaces are exactly alike, every fixture in the collection is fully customizable. Designers and homeowners alike can tailor their lighting by choosing from a wide variety of: Colours and Finishes Wiring Options Glass Globes Whether a room calls for a simple, elegant accent or a complex, sprawling centrepiece, the FORMA collection adapts effortlessly. Rooted in Local Craftsmanship Beyond its striking postmodern design, the FORMA collection is deeply rooted in community craftsmanship. Luminaire Authentik designs and manufactures each piece in its dedicated workshop in Cowansville, Quebec. Taking their commitment to the environment and the local economy one step further, the brand prioritizes sustainable sourcing by obtaining its raw materials from within a 30-kilometre radius of its facility. Where to Find It Honest in its construction and endless in its possibilities, FORMA redefines how lighting takes shape in modern interiors. The collection is currently available to explore in-store and online at luminaireauthentik.com. About Luminaire Authentik Based in Quebec, Luminaire Authentik is a female-founded company that designs and manufactures made-to-order lighting fixtures for residential and commercial projects. Each piece balances material integrity, refined design, and local craftsmanship, reflecting a commitment to thoughtful production and enduring aesthetics. Press release source: v2com-newswire

Great architecture does more than simply house people; it shapes how they learn, create, and connect with the world around them. Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) has long understood this, and the architectural community agrees. Recently, UQAM’s iconic pavillon de Design was awarded the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s (RAIC) Prix du XXe siècle, a prestigious honour that recognizes the most outstanding and enduring architectural achievements of the last century. Image courtesy of: UQAM Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the pavilion has not only stood the test of time but continues to be a vibrant, breathing heart of Montreal’s creative scene. Industrial Elegance Meets Urban Transparency Located at 1440 Sanguinet in the bustling Quartier Latin, the pavillon de Design was built between 1994 and 1995. It was brought to life by the visionary minds at Dan Hanganu Architects, with early collaboration from architect Gilles Prud’homme. The building is a masterclass in modern design. Dominated by sleek steel and expansive glass, it acts as a magnet for natural light. Through clever layers of transparency—using glass blocks and metal grilles—the architects managed to blur the lines between the indoors and the city streets. It is not a closed-off academic fortress; it is a public space that invites Montreal in. Adding to its dynamic facade is a striking piece of integrated art by Pierre Leclerc. A 12-square-metre galvanized steel structure featuring 72 glass panels, the artwork features movable elements that act as a canvas for graphic interventions and animated projections, perfectly mirroring the creative energy inside. A Building That Teaches The pavilion is home to UQAM’s École de design and the Centre de design. From its very conception, the building was meant to be an active participant in the students' education. Inside, the layout is purposefully designed to encourage the school's philosophy of "seeing and being seen." Flexible Layouts: Studio floors are cleverly woven with office and classroom levels. Dynamic Spaces: A mix of open voids and defined rooms animates the heart of the school, setting the rhythm for daily academic life. An Upward Journey: The generous architecture pulls visitors upward, culminating in a bright, expansive rooftop terrace. As Thomas-Bernard Kenniff, Director of UQAM’s École de design, notes, occupying this pavilion daily profoundly transforms how students and faculty teach, learn, and collaborate. The space actively fosters experimentation and cultural exchange. “Occupying this pavilion on a daily basis profoundly transforms the way we teach, learn, create, and collaborate. The spaces were designed to foster exchange, research and cultural activities, and experimentation. The RAIC award recognizes not only the architectural quality of the site, but also the extraordinary efforts of all those involved in the project over time. It celebrates the tangible impact its design has had on the academic and creative life of our École de design, as well as on the design community. This distinction carries particular significance as the École de design has just celebrated its 50th anniversary, while the pavilion marks its 30th year.” Thomas-Bernard Kenniff, Director of UQAM’s École de design A Legacy of Excellence The unique brilliance of the pavillon de Design is no secret. It earned the Ordre des architectes du Québec Award of Excellence in 1996 and the Governor General’s Medal in Architecture in 1999. The late Dan Hanganu, whose architectural and cultural legacy remains one of the most significant in Quebec, received numerous top-tier honours throughout his career, including an honorary doctorate from UQAM in 2015. Today, as the École de design celebrates its 50th anniversary alongside the building's 30th, the pavilion continues to serve as the ultimate display case for emerging talent. This is most evident during the Annuel de design, UQAM’s highly anticipated annual exhibition. Running from May 7 to 20, the event takes over all six floors of the pavilion, showcasing innovative graduation projects in architecture, object design, fashion, typography, and illustration. For 30 years, the pavillon de Design has proven that when a building is designed with openness, light, and community in mind, it doesn't just age—it thrives. Technical sheet & Credits Architects: Dan Hanganu Architectes Project manager: Gilles Prud'homme, architecte Collaborators: Guillaume de Lorimier, Earl Murphy, Rose-Marie Tariant, François Poirier, Marie-Danielle Faucher, Andrew Zygal, Alex Touikan, Viorel Indries, Radu C. Jean Structural Engineers: Boulva, Kadanoff, Saia, Deslauriers Mechanical and Electrical Engineers: La Société d'experts-conseils Pellemon inc. About UQAM Dynamic and innovative since its founding in 1969, UQAM was a pioneer in Quebec in integrating design as a field of university study. Whether in eco-responsible design, digital creation, visual identity, or interventions in public space, UQAM has trained more than 5,000 graduates in this field and has made its mark in Quebec and internationally. UQAM offers more than 375 programs across three levels of study to approximately 35,000 students. Its teaching and research span a wide range of disciplines: arts, communications, health sciences, social sciences, political science and law, science, management, and education. The University stands out for its multidisciplinary research, firmly rooted in its environment and communities, and positions itself as a highly creative institution committed to Montreal’s socioeconomic, scientific, and cultural development.' Press release source: v2com-newswire

The "Made in Canada" label on a piece of furniture isn't just a geographic fact—it’s a declaration of quality, ethical labour, and material integrity. But as international "fast-furniture" floods the market, the domestic industry is leaning heavily on an unsung hero to survive: Intellectual Property (IP). Forget tech giants and pharma; IP is the lifeblood of Canadian design. Without it, the "Made in Canada" standard would drown in a sea of generic, low-quality knock-offs. Here is why protecting original ideas is the only way the domestic furniture industry survives. The True Cost of Originality Canada will never be a cheap place to manufacture. Between fair wages, strict safety codes, and the high cost of premium materials, Canadian studios cannot compete on price alone. Their battleground is innovation. When a local designer spends months obsessing over the technical precision of a metal-to-wood joint, the acoustics of a room divider, or the ergonomics of a modern lounge chair, they are generating intellectual property. If overseas factories can take a screenshot of the final product and mass-produce a hollow imitation using inferior materials, the original creator is effectively subsidizing their competitor’s R&D (Research and Development). Industrial Design rights allow Canadian makers to legally own the "look and feel" of their work. It is the moat that protects their competitive edge. The Algorithm vs. The Artisan Design piracy is no longer just a problem of shady trade shows; it has been automated. "Scraper" bots scour social media for trending aesthetics, and within weeks, watered-down clones populate global e-commerce sites. For a bespoke millworker in Toronto or an independent design studio in Vancouver, this is an existential crisis. IP laws give these creators the "legal teeth"—like swift cease-and-desist power—to rip down infringing listings. Without it, local talent would be entirely defenceless against foreign mega-factories with limitless production scales. Trademarks as Trust When a client specs a piece from brands like EQ3, Gus* Modern, or Huppé, they are buying into a legacy of reliability. Trademarks protect that trust. If anyone could slap a "Canadian-designed" tag on a subpar product or mimic a respected brand's logo, the collective reputation of the entire domestic industry would collapse. IP law ensures that brand integrity remains intact, guaranteeing that when consumers pay for high standards, they actually get them. The Green Edge Modern Canadian design is heavily defined by sustainable and technical innovation. Think proprietary non-toxic finishes, advanced recycled materials, or modular hardware designed to extend the lifecycle of a piece. These invisible innovations take massive capital to develop and are protected by Patents. By giving companies exclusive rights to their breakthroughs for a set period, patents incentivize the push toward smarter, greener manufacturing rather than settling for wasteful, outdated methods. The Ripple Effect The Canadian furniture ecosystem—from the forestry sector and raw material suppliers down to the final retail floor—depends on high-value end products to support thousands of living-wage jobs. A thoughtfully designed piece is more than just wood, fabric, and steel; it is a compilation of ideas, technical rigour, and innovation. Protecting that IP is exactly how we ensure the survival of the industry that builds the spaces we live in. Without IP protections, furniture ceases to be a product of design and becomes a mere commodity—sparking a price-driven race to the bottom that high-standard Canadian manufacturers simply cannot win. Reference: Canada.ca (Intellectual property and copyright), Canada.ca (R&D and innovation)

Medical laboratories are often defined entirely by their complex, technical needs, leaving little room for architectural beauty. However, the new Montérégie Central Laboratory in Quebec completely rewrites that rule. Designed by the architectural firms NFOE and Archi–, this cutting-edge facility proves that high-tech infrastructure can be surprisingly elegant. Image courtesy of: James Brittain Located in an industrial park in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, this facility is the first off-site medical laboratory built for Quebec’s Optilab program. Instead of hiding its industrial purpose, the building embraces it, resulting in a design that is smart, efficient, and beautifully simple. A Monolithic Presence The architecture is defined by what the designers call a "monolithic" approach—a style that feels solid, singular, and grounded. The building is composed of large, superimposed blocks that are slightly offset from one another. This subtle shift creates a sense of movement, breaking up the mass of the building while maintaining a restrained and powerful presence against the open horizon. Clad in a deep anthracite brick, the exterior is both durable and precise. Rather than feeling like a closed-off fortress, the building is punctuated by "glass fissures"—vertical slices of windows that mark the entrances and guide people through the site. The Architecture of Flow Every inch of the laboratory’s spatial organization is born from the same logic: flow, containment, and precision. Inside, the floor plan is a physical map of a medical sample’s journey. From reception to processing, every room is positioned to support a "just-in-time" workflow. Because the lab handles sensitive biomedical work, the design meticulously separates different zones to ensure biosafety and operational efficiency. However, this high degree of technical complexity doesn't result in a confusing interior. Instead, the layout is remarkably clear and legible, making the daily work of staff easier and more intuitive. Clarity and Comfort While the program is highly specialized, the architects prioritized the human experience. The interior is designed to be a "clear, luminous, and comfortable" workplace, moving away from the windowless, sterile feel of traditional labs. Natural Light: Ribbon windows and glass openings wrap around the building, opening the laboratories to the surrounding landscape and flooding the halls with daylight. Visual Connections: These glass elements do more than let in light; they provide visual cues that help staff orient themselves within the large facility. Warmth in Detail: To balance the clinical nature of the equipment, areas dedicated to staff use warmer materials like wood, creating a sense of respite and encouraging collaboration. Sustainability Through Discipline The laboratory’s environmental performance isn't the result of trendy gadgets, but of a disciplined architectural philosophy. By focusing on compactness, durability, and reduction, the project naturally lowers its footprint. Key green features include: High-Performance Envelope: A tightly sealed exterior that maintains thermal comfort. Geothermal Energy: Utilizing the earth's natural temperature for heating and cooling. Long-Lasting Materials: Choosing brick for its low carbon footprint and its ability to age gracefully over decades. Built for the Future The Montérégie Central Laboratory isn't just smart in its layout; it’s also highly sustainable. Rather than slapping on flashy green technology as an afterthought, the building’s eco-friendly nature is baked right into its core. Its compact shape naturally saves energy, while high-performance windows, geothermal heating, and smart heat-recovery systems keep energy demands incredibly low year-round. Outside, the landscaping features rain gardens and retention basins that manage water naturally. Perhaps its greatest sustainable feature is its flexibility. The open, well-lit spaces are designed to easily adapt as medical technology evolves over the years. Between territorial logic, technical precision, and spatial quality, the project demonstrates how rigour itself can become an architectural language. Ultimately, the Montérégie Central Laboratory demonstrates that rigour itself can become an architectural language. By treating technical requirements as a creative challenge rather than a limitation, the team has created a space that is as flexible as it is solid—a building ready to adapt to the future of medical science while providing a high-quality environment for the people who power it. Project Details Project name: Montérégie Central Laboratory Project location: St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec, Canada Opening: July 2025 Area: 6130 square meters Clients: Société Québécoise des Infrastructures / CISSS Montérégie-Centre Architects: NFOE | Archi- Project lead: Dominic Daoust, architecte associé NFOE, Charles-Antoine Perreault, architecte associé Archi- Engineering: AtkinsRéalis General Contractor: Décarel Landscape architect: Jacques Parent Image courtesy of: Stéphane Brügger, James Brittain About Archi– Founded in 1995, Archi– is a Montreal-based architectural firm that places the "program"—the specific function and needs of a building—at the absolute center of its creative process. Their approach is defined by a pursuit of clarity, creating architecture that is self-evident, essential, and easy to understand. Rather than relying on superficial trends, they find beauty in the internal logic of a project, where flow, site context, and technical precision dictate the final form. Specializing in complex institutional and industrial projects, Archi– has become a master of "monolithic" architecture—designs that feel solid, durable, and grounded. Their work is characterized by a "formal economy," meaning every gesture serves a purpose, whether it’s a subtle shift in volume to create movement or a strategically placed window to guide natural light. By balancing high-performance technical requirements with a deep sensitivity to the human experience, Archi– creates spaces that are as functional as they are poetic. For them, rigour isn’t a constraint; it is the very language that makes a building timeless. About NFOE Established in 1912, NFOE is a prominent Montreal-based architectural firm with over a century of expertise in designing complex, high-performance facilities. As one of Canada’s most enduring practices, NFOE has carved out a specialized niche in the science, technology, healthcare, and industrial sectors. They are widely recognized for their ability to master intricate technical programs, ranging from cutting-edge pharmaceutical plants and vaccine facilities (such as Moderna) to advanced university research hubs and integrated cancer treatment centers. Their philosophy centers on "inspiring designs and innovative solutions," achieved through a deeply collaborative approach. With a team of over 120 professionals across offices in Montreal, Laval, and Quebec City, NFOE balances the rigorous demands of biosafety, laboratory flow, and technical infrastructure with a commitment to sustainable, LEED-certified design. For NFOE, architecture is a tool to solve complex human and scientific challenges, resulting in spaces that are as functional as they are visionary. Press release source: v2com-newswire

Keeping a pulse on design shifts is essential for curating a modern space. Whether one is planning a complete renovation or a simple room refresh, understanding the latest aesthetic movements ensures that a space feels current rather than dated. This year, the focus is firmly on timeless elegance, historic architectural charm, and deep personalization. Here are 10 smart and accessible interior design trends shaping homes right now. 1. Warm Neutrals and Rich Jewel Tones The defining colour palette of the year blends flexibility with quiet drama. Warm, earthy neutrals serve as a highly versatile foundation. To create depth, designers are layering in moody jewel tones—think muted charcoal browns or saturated gem colours with a hint of gray. This combination delivers a classic, traditional impact that feels incredibly sophisticated. 2. Furniture Skirting The soft, whimsical look of skirted furniture is making a prominent return. From sofas and lounge chairs to ottomans and bed frames, adding pleats or soft ruffles introduces a traditional detail that beautifully softens a room's hard lines. 3. Layered Patterns Spaces are gaining rich visual depth through the clever mixing of patterns. The secret to this trend is maintaining a cohesive colour palette while varying the scale of the prints. Whether going bold with patterned walls and upholstery, or keeping it subtle with dynamic curtains and rugs, layered patterns make a home look truly unique. 4. The "Dressed" Interior Stark, stripped-back rooms are making way for fully finished, highly detailed spaces. Think chair rails, canopy beds, and layered accessories that echo the grandeur of historic estates. The result is a cozy, intentionally curated environment that feels complete without ever feeling cluttered. 5. Living Metal Finishes Hardware is being used to tell a story. Unlacquered brass and nickel are the metals of choice this year because they naturally patina and change over time. These warm-toned finishes weather beautifully with everyday use, bringing an enduring, classic feel to cabinetry, lighting, and doors. 6. Hand-Painted Tiles Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are embracing an English cottage aesthetic through hand-painted tiles. Moving beyond the classic blue-and-white Delft style, these unique, artistic tiles now appear in warm browns and custom palettes. They add an organic, bespoke touch that feels both bold and deeply timeless. 7. Curated Personal Collections Homes are bringing personality back into the spotlight. Tastefully displaying personal collections—like an elegant wall of plates gathered over many years or a carefully arranged library of books—turns everyday items into beautiful focal points and natural conversation starters. 8. Deep, Dark Woods While light white oak remains a versatile staple for flooring, rich, dark wood tones are stepping forward in furniture and cabinetry. Mixing these deeper, historic wood finishes with lighter existing elements creates a sophisticated atmosphere that looks naturally collected over time. 9. Decorative Toe Kicks Standard, straight-edge cabinetry is getting an architectural upgrade with decorative toe kicks. Adding custom-patterned or gracefully shaped bases to kitchen islands, bathroom vanities, or even open shelving introduces a wonderful layer of historical charm to the millwork. 10. Colourful Art Matting Wall art is receiving a fresh, playful update with patterned and colourful matting. Instead of relying on standard white borders, framing art with colourful, fabric-wrapped, or painted mats is a simple way to inject unexpected energy and highly customized detail into a room's decor. This year’s trends prove that interior design is moving toward spaces that feel lived-in, loved, and rich with character. By layering thoughtful, historic details with modern sensibilities, it is entirely possible to create an environment that is both visually engaging and effortlessly timeless.

As cities continue to grow, a common question arises: how can we add more housing to quiet, established neighbourhoods without losing their unique charm? Image courtesy of: Félix Michaud Gabriel Fain Architects provides a brilliant answer with the Montrose Sixplex. Completed in 2026, this six-unit rental housing project in Toronto shows how smart design can gracefully add homes to a community while perfectly matching its existing character. Project Team Architect: Gabriel Fain Architects Interior Design: Unison Group Construction Management: Reside Properties A Familiar Face on the Street From the sidewalk, the main building of the Montrose Sixplex does not look like a typical apartment complex. Instead, it is designed with a classic gabled (pitched) roof, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the traditional houses next door. This familiar silhouette neatly hides the extra living space inside while maintaining the street's natural rhythm and scale. The exterior is wrapped in beautiful Belgian buff brick, giving the building a solid, timeless feel. The architects paid close attention to the details, using limestone windowsills and patterned brickwork to add depth and shadow to the walls. The entryways are clear but understated, ensuring the building maintains a calm, welcoming presence in the neighbourhood. Rethinking the Laneway The project does not stop at the street front. At the back of the property, two smaller laneway houses complete the collection. Even though they are smaller, they share the same design style and proportions as the main building, tying the whole project together. Instead of treating the back alley simply as a place to park cars, the architects turned it into a feature. The laneway houses are oriented toward nearby Bickford Park, transforming the space into a shared, welcoming "front yard" that connects the residents to nature. Light, Warmth, and a Show-Stopping Library Inside, the homes are just as thoughtfully designed. Created in collaboration with Unison Group, the interiors feature a cozy, minimal style built around warm light oak floors and tall, custom wood cabinets. Key interior features include: Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living: Large, floor-to-ceiling sliding doors pull natural light deep into the open-concept rooms and blur the lines between the living spaces and outdoor terraces. Bright Staircases: A central staircase with glass railings keeps the spaces feeling open and visually connected across different floors. The Double-Height Library: On the second floor, the architects took full advantage of the pitched roof. They created a stunning, two-story library space complete with a built-in desk and a classic rolling ladder to reach the highest shelves. A Blueprint for Future Neighborhoods The Montrose Sixplex was born out of Toronto’s changing zoning rules, which now allow for more housing units in traditionally low-rise areas. Rather than just checking the boxes to meet these new rules, Gabriel Fain Architects used them as an opportunity for creativity. By continuing the shapes and materials of the surrounding neighbourhood, the project proves that adding density does not have to mean disrupting a community. Instead, it shows how modern rules can lead to beautiful, smart buildings that offer more housing options while respecting the streets we already love. About Gabriel Fain Architects Founded in 2016, Gabriel Fain Architects is a multi-disciplinary design studio operating at the intersection of architecture and urbanism. Recognized as a leading voice among a new generation of architects in Toronto, Gabriel Fain is pioneering innovative housing typologies, ranging from multiplexes and mid-rise buildings to reimagined tall buildings. The studio addresses the city’s diverse housing needs, including rental, affordable, and condominium living, by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and advanced construction methods such as prefabrication, light-frame construction, and mass-timber systems. Principal architect Gabriel Fain is licensed with the Ontario Association of Architects. He graduated from the Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design at the University of Toronto with a Master of Architecture degree and was awarded the prestigious Heather M. Reisman Gold Medal in Design. Gabriel is a frequent guest critic at the Daniels Faculty and speaks regularly in design forums, podcasts, and media about new housing typologies. Press release source: v2com-newswire

"If you look at my work, it doesn't have one distinct style, and that is because each of my clients has had such a wide range of likes and wants. I would like to be remembered for how I personalize one's home-making it feel like their own, but with intentional design decisions made." If her personality were a piece of furniture, she says she would be a big, wooden kitchen table. It is a fitting metaphor for an interior designer whose ultimate goal is to be approachable, comforting, and a unifying force for the people around her. For this designer, creating a beautiful home is not just about picking the right paint colour; it is about bringing people together through intentional, thoughtful design. A Foundation Built on Collaboration Long before she learned the rules of perspective drawing in college, her childhood was defined by imagination and teamwork. While she might not remember the very first physical object she ever made, she vividly remembers the group efforts: turning a friend's garage into a spaceship or a pioneer house, and even running an art camp for the neighbourhood kids when she was in the eighth grade. Her specific eye for design, however, comes from her grandmother. A painter with a highly unique and personal home, her grandmother taught her the value of meaningful spaces. It was the first house she experienced where every item had a story and belonged there for a reason. Today, she uses that same inherited vision to mentally picture how a space will come together long before the work is even finished. The Renovation That Changed Everything Every career has a tipping point. For her, it was the ambitious decision to gut and renovate her own home down to the studs—all while raising two toddlers and working at a design-build company. Realizing she was stretched too thin, she left her job to focus entirely on designing and managing her own house. It was a trial by fire. Acting as a project manager for the first time, she learned the harsh realities of construction, including navigating different personalities and managing a stressful, month-long delay caused by a 30-foot steel beam. Yet, this challenging roadblock pushed her to deeply understand the trades world. It solidified her dream of running her own business and taught her a crucial lesson: choosing the right people is the absolute most important part of any project. Classic, Clutter-Free, and Functional When asked to describe her style in everyday words, her answer is simple: "Classic and clutter-free." But her process is highly strategic. When starting a brand-new project, she doesn't begin with fabric swatches or tile samples. She starts by sitting down in the client’s space to talk about their daily routines. Using AutoCAD—a drawing tool she has relied on since her earliest portfolio—she focuses entirely on space-planning first. By prioritizing how a room physically functions, she ensures that the beautiful finishes and materials added later truly serve the people living there. While she always offers her honest, professional opinion on what works best, she deeply respects that the client is the one who has to live in the home. If she ever feels stuck during this creative process, her secret is simple: she steps away from the screen. A quick walk or a good meal is usually all it takes to reset her mind and find fresh ideas. The Person Behind the Blueprints Outside of work, she maintains a strong balance between her career and her family. Ironically, her favourite sanctuary is the very kitchen she designed during that stressful home renovation. When her kids are playing, she loves to zone out in her corner of the kitchen with some music, cooking, and baking. Because of this love for cooking, her favourite everyday objects are things like a good pan, a well-crafted knife, or a simple plate. She appreciates that these items can be designed beautifully, but also serve the vital, daily function of keeping our minds and bodies fueled. To keep her own creative mind fueled, she loves exploring clothing stores to see seasonal colour trends, and wandering through antique markets or bookstores to discover a mix of the old and the new. Looking to the Future Over the next five years, her main blueprint for life is straightforward: to build projects with people she connects with, and to bring homeowners joy and comfort in their everyday lives. Professionally, she hopes to eventually design a brand-new build from the ground up to experience full creative control and to expand into more commercial spaces. Ultimately, she doesn't want to be remembered for one specific, rigid "signature" style. Because every client is different, every home she designs is different. When people look back on her work, she wants them to see deeply personal homes—spaces made to feel like the client's own, built with intentional, lasting design decisions. Discover more about Parade Design Studio

This spring, the historic city of Montpellier, France, is preparing for a major milestone. From June 9 to 14, 2026, the Festival des Architectures Vives (FAV) returns to transform the hidden courtyards of the city’s private mansions into stunning displays of modern design. Image courtesy of: Atelier Mousqueton : Valentine Geoffroy & Delphine Lecomte This year marks the festival's 20th anniversary. To celebrate two decades of artistic innovation, the FAV is evolving its traditional format to focus on a powerful theme: Transmission. A New Generation Takes the Lead For this special anniversary edition, the festival is doing something unique. Instead of simply showcasing new talent, the FAV has invited standout teams from past years to step into a new role as mentors. This creates a beautiful, symbolic passing of the torch. By guiding a fresh generation of architects, these veterans are building a bridge between the festival's rich history and its exciting future. It is a gesture of deep trust, proving that great architecture is always a collaborative effort. Image courtesy of: Festival des Architectures Vives Weaving Architecture and Craftsmanship For the past two years, the festival has invited inspiring figures from outside the world of architecture to serve as patrons. This year, the honour goes to Julien Tuffery, head of the celebrated French textile house, Atelier Tuffery. At first glance, fashion and architecture might seem very different, but they share a common soul. Atelier Tuffery is a family business famous for passing down generations of textile skills. Julien Tuffery perfectly embodies the festival's values: a love for hands-on craftsmanship, technical mastery, and a deep respect for sustainable materials. By bringing a master of the textile industry into the fold, the FAV is highlighting that creating a lasting garment and building a lasting structure both require time, care, and the sharing of knowledge. Global Talent, Local Charm The 2026 edition will feature 40 architects bringing 13 incredible installations to life. The roster perfectly balances local roots with a massive international reach. Four of the French teams are based right in the Montpellier area, while five international teams are travelling from across the globe to participate. The 13 visionary projects and their diverse origins include: The Continuum as Space-Time (Quebec, Canada) 운지(雲紙) The Suspended Cloud (Seoul, South Korea) Liminality in Movement (Nara, Japan) Raconte Moi Un Secret (Portugal, Switzerland, Australia) Une Ombre Bleue Devient Une Relique (Genoa, Italy) Panache de Lumière (Montpellier, France) Sablier (Rodez, Paris, Clermont-Ferrand, Lyon – France) Transphères (Bordeaux, France) Vertigo (Montpellier, France) La Lyre et La Couronne (Paris, France) Mât-Tiers (Nice, France) Le Sens du Détail (Montpellier, France) Pop-Up Pavilion: Téisser (Montpellier, France) The Heart of the Festival: Hôtel Saint-Côme Among these remarkable installations, the Pop-Up Pavilion located at the Hôtel Saint-Côme holds a special purpose. Designed by Montpellier locals Laetitia Rejany and Iacha Perget, this pavilion is the welcoming heart of the festival. Open and inviting, it serves as a central gathering place where visitors can meet, chat, and soak in the festival's atmosphere. It will also feature a special merchandise stand offering exclusive items to commemorate the 20th anniversary. While visitors can start their architectural treasure hunt anywhere in the city, this pavilion at 32 Grand Rue Jean Moulin is the perfect place to begin. Building a Greener Future Great design must look forward, and the FAV is deeply committed to protecting the environment. The festival operates under a strict environmental charter, partnering once again with Mas Réemploi to champion sustainable building. Every team is encouraged and supported to use recycled materials in their designs. Mas Réemploi provides an online catalogue of reusable materials for architects to source from, and once the festival ends, they will collect the materials to put them back into the recycling loop. To take it a step further, every installation will undergo a carbon footprint assessment, and a special environmental award will be given to the team with the most innovative, eco-friendly approach. As the Festival des Architectures Vives opens its doors for its 20th year, it promises to be much more than an exhibition. It is a celebration of history, a masterclass in sustainability, and a beautiful reminder that the best ideas are the ones we share. Interested in diving deeper? Find additional information here. About the Festival des Architectures Vives The Festival des Architectures Vives (FAV) is an annual event in Montpellier that bridges historical heritage and contemporary design. Since 2006, it has invited the public to explore the city’s hidden private courtyards, transformed by ephemeral installations created by emerging architects. By opening these prestigious "hôtels particuliers," the FAV fosters a unique dialogue between the past and the future, making architecture accessible to all. Each installation is a site-specific experiment that challenges our perception of urban space. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026 with the theme "Transmission," the festival continues to mentor talent and showcase the evolution of architectural practice through a free, immersive gallery experience across the city’s historic heart. Press release source: v2com-newswire

The renowned architecture and design firm Provencher_Roy is taking a major step to support the future of the built environment. The firm recently announced the launch of the Claude-Provencher Excellence Scholarship, an annual initiative designed to empower emerging talent in architecture and related design fields. Image courtesy of: Provencher_Roy Created to honour the profound legacy of co-founder Claude Provencher (1949–2022)—a leading figure in Canadian architecture—the scholarship seeks students who embody his core values: excellence, rigour, creativity, sustainability, and engagement. More Than Just Financial Support Valued at $15,000, the scholarship offers a unique launchpad for a university student looking to elevate their final academic project. However, the prize goes far beyond financial backing. The selected recipient will step directly into the professional world, receiving hands-on mentorship within the Provencher_Roy studios. This includes: A dedicated professional workspace. Access to specialized equipment, including model workshops and 3D printing technology. Continuous, one-on-one guidance from a senior design professional. "This scholarship reflects our commitment to carrying forward Claude Provencher’s legacy by supporting a new generation of designers who are driven to shape a thoughtful, sustainable, and meaningful built environment,” Sonia Gagné, Design VP, Principal Partner, and Architect at Provencher_Roy. Image courtesy of: Provencher_Roy A Platform for Innovation The scholarship serves as an incubator for fresh ideas. It is open to graduating students across a variety of disciplines, including architecture, environmental design, landscape architecture, urban planning, and interior design. The firm is looking for forward-thinking projects that push boundaries. Applicants are highly encouraged to explore pressing modern themes, such as: Artificial Intelligence in design Innovative materials Sustainable development Urban densification The chosen research project will not stay hidden in a studio; it will culminate in a public exhibition and a dedicated publication documenting the student's research process and outcomes. Who Can Apply? The scholarship is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students enrolled in selected Canadian universities. There is no age restriction to apply. Important Dates to Remember For students eager to take their final projects to the next level, the timeline moves quickly: Application Deadline: May 17, 2026 Winner Announcement & Project Start: June 1, 2026 Midterm Presentation: December 2026 Final Exhibition: June 1, 2027 For more information and to submit an application, students can visit: provencherroy.ca/en/scholarship About Claude Provencher Co-founder of Provencher_Roy, Claude Provencher has profoundly shaped the Canadian architectural landscape since the late 1970s. Renowned for projects that are both ambitious and contemporary, yet deeply rooted in the human scale, he championed a humanistic and sustainable vision of architecture— one that combines rigour, boldness, and social commitment. Many buildings across Montréal and Québec bear his signature, including the World Trade Centre Montréal, the Reception Pavilion of the Quebec National Assembly, the Montréal Tower at the Olympic Stadium, the Claire and Marc Bourgie Pavilion of the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, as well as the master plan for Technopôle Angus. Firmly convinced of the added value and lasting impact that architecture brings to the built environment, he advocated throughout his career for a vision of the city in which architecture holds a central role—forming the foundation of enduring beauty for generations to come. Through his pursuit of excellence and his determination to push boundaries, Claude Provencher shaped a practice now recognized for the richness and authenticity of its thinking, as well as for the rigour and quality of its achievements. About Provencher_Roy Founded in 1983 by Claude Provencher and Michel Roy, Provencher_Roy has grown into one of Canada’s most influential multidisciplinary firms. Today, the firm operates with a team of over 350 professionals across four offices, specializing in architecture, interior design, urban planning, and landscape architecture. From their early spotlight with the transformation of the World Trade Centre Montréal to their modern focus on net-zero challenges, the firm has remained dedicated to "human-scale" design. By organizing their large team into smaller, collaborative studios, they foster an environment where creativity and analytical thinking thrive. Their mission is simple yet ambitious: to create inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful spaces that improve collective well-being. Press release source: v2com-newswire

In the high-stakes world of hospitality renovations, the clock is just as critical as the aesthetics. Every delayed shipment and missed deadline translates directly to lost revenue and operational headaches. However, through the meticulous execution demonstrated by Kabana Group in this project, a large-scale renovation breathes new life into a property, elevating its market position and thrilling its guests. Image courtesy of: Kabana Group This was exactly the mandate for the Marriott Hotel in Hoffman Estates, Chicago. Tasked with a massive 295-key full renovation, Kabana Group was brought in to supply a complete interior package, navigating strict brand standards and an unforgiving timeline to deliver a stunning transformation. The Scope: Honouring Marriott’s Gold Standard To align with Marriott’s rigorous full-service hotel standards, every detail of the property needed to exude modern sophistication and durability. Kabana Group was entrusted with sourcing and supplying the complete interior package, which included: Comprehensive FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) Architectural Finishes: Premium wallcoverings, flooring, and custom rugs Illumination: High-end guestroom and striking public area lighting Furnishings: Public area seating, communal tables, and window sills The results speak for themselves. The grand lobby now features breathtaking, sprawling golden light installations that draw the eye up, complemented by geometric room dividers and a stunning live-edge wooden communal table. The banquet spaces have been transformed into elegant, highly desirable venues anchored by crystalline chandeliers. Meanwhile, the 295 guest rooms were completely revitalized with sleek, mid-century-inspired wood finishes, calming watercolour-style murals, and modern workspaces that perfectly cater to today's travellers. To achieve this level of finish, Kabana Group conducted rigorous sample reviews, ensuring every material matched the expected quality, finish, and guest experience mandated by the Marriott brand. The Strategy: Precision Logistics and Local Sourcing While a beautiful design is the ultimate goal, the true challenge of a project this size is logistics. For the hotel’s ownership, timing was the absolute top priority. To prevent delays from crippling operations, Kabana Group orchestrated a masterclass in project management. They maintained airtight coordination across the entire supply chain—from manufacturing and sourcing to logistics and final installation. When global shipping threatened the schedule, Kabana Group pivoted intelligently. Key materials, such as upholstery fabrics, were sourced locally within the United States and air-shipped to manufacturing facilities to keep production timelines perfectly on track. The Bottom Line: 45 Containers. Zero Delays The success of a procurement partner isn't just in what they deliver, but how they deliver it. Over the course of the project, approximately 45 containers were shipped and delivered to the Hoffman Estates property exactly on schedule. By partnering with Kabana Group, the property ownership achieved a seamless renovation without a single delay. The strategic sourcing and flawless logistical execution allowed ownership to: Avoid unnecessary procurement premiums. Eliminate costly schedule overruns. Prevent the loss of room revenue associated with delayed openings. In the end, Kabana Group didn't just deliver exquisite furniture and lighting; they preserved millions of dollars in value, keeping a highly complex, large-scale project completely on track from the first sample to the final installation. About Kabana Group Kabana Group is a global interior solutions firm specializing in the end-to-end realization of high-quality interior spaces for the hospitality, commercial, and luxury residential sectors. Founded in 2003, the company has evolved from a fashion and furnishing brand into a comprehensive "one-stop shop" for interior architecture, bespoke furniture, and worldwide sourcing. With a footprint spanning India, China, Australia, Canada, and the United States, the group leverages its extensive international network and in-house manufacturing capabilities to deliver seamless turnkey projects. To date, the firm has delivered over 10 million square feet of interiors globally, serving a prestigious clientele that includes major hospitality brands such as Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. The organization operates on a philosophy that emphasizes execution and planning as much as aesthetic design. By managing every stage of the project lifecycle—from initial design consultancy and budgeting to manufacturing, logistics, and final installation—Kabana Group aims to eliminate the delays and complexities typically associated with large-scale interior developments. Through a "hands-on" problem-solving approach, the group positions itself as a strategic partner, working alongside clients to transform bold architectural concepts into functional, elevated environments.