Project: A 15-story Rental Residential Building
Architecture: blanchette archi.design, MDTP atelier d’architecture
Contractor: Corsim
Structural Engineer: L2C
Landscape Architecture: Studio B
Developers: Oktodev and Endevco
Location: Gatineau, Quebec, Canada
Area: 180000 ft2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Welldone.archi, Oktodev
In consortium with MDTP atelier d’architecture, blanchette archi.design conceived the architectural and interior concept of Éléonore, a 15-story rental residential building in Gatineau, Quebec. This project rethinks urban living by blending heritage preservation with a fresh, contemporary approach. Developed by Oktodev and Endevco, Éléonore delivered 242 residential units between spring and fall 2024.
A Dialogue Between Heritage and Modernity
Located at the intersection of Laurier Street and Sacré-Cœur Boulevard, the design of Éléonore responds to its urban context. For example, its red masonry podium echoes the scale of nearby historical buildings. Additionally, a row of townhouses along Sacré-Cœur Boulevard creates a smooth transition with the evolving cityscape. According to David D. Boisseau, associate architect at blanchette archi.design, “The project’s site integration and volumetric approach reflect a sensitive response to the context, honoring the site’s history while asserting a contemporary architectural identity.” Moreover, Audrey Patenaude, associate architect at MDTP atelier d’architecture, states, “With an integrated approach, Éléonore strikes a balance between heritage preservation and architectural innovation.”
Spaces Designed for Quality of Life
Éléonore prioritizes community living and resident well-being. The building includes shared amenities such as a gym, self-service library, dog park, and coworking space. Furthermore, a third-floor terrace with an outdoor dining area fosters social gatherings. The rooftop pool and panoramic terrace offer breathtaking views of the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill, and the Casino du Lac-Leamy. These thoughtful design choices create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.
Weaving Connections Between Private and Public Spaces
The masterplan reconnects a once-fragmented urban fabric in Hull. For instance, the landscape design by Studio B introduces a vibrant public plaza and a porte-cochère that link public and private spaces. In addition, shorter façades feature loggias and open-air walkways that encourage a pedestrian-friendly experience. This approach helps integrate Éléonore with the surrounding community and promotes social inclusion.
A Dynamic and Sustainable Expression
The building’s staggered balcony design creates a rhythmic and dynamic façade. The anodized metal cladding, with its natural finish, reflects the changing hues of the sky and adds to the structure’s vibrant character. Custom-designed ceramic-fritted balcony screens introduce a fluid, gradient pattern that further enriches the aesthetic. Moreover, the project aims for LEED Gold certification, which reinforces its commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable design.
Shaping Gatineau’s Future
The first sketches of Éléonore date back to 2020, and the project has evolved through close collaboration among all stakeholders. By reusing and restoring heritage buildings while adding new, innovative spaces, the consortium has created a contemporary living environment that respects its historical context. As Quebec—and Gatineau in particular—face an ongoing housing crisis, Éléonore contributes modern, well-integrated housing solutions that support the community and promote sustainability.
In summary, Éléonore stands as a landmark project that redefines urban living. It creates a balanced dialogue between history and innovation, private and public, and tradition and modernity, ultimately shaping the future of residential architecture in Gatineau.
