Quebec Center
With dzo Architecture
Complex of Culture and Administration
Montreal, Canada

Three large and diverse programs needed to be placed within a single site: the Quebec government administration tower, the Montreal symphony hall, and a school of dance and music.These elements are organized in a system of parallel bands, creating an urban language that mitigates the changes in scale and use. While still one cohesive structure, each “band” was given a unique identity using wood. The concert hall is clad in dense horizontal strips which glow in the night through intentional light “leaks.” A double skin system made of wood and glass is used on the façade of the governmental tower, designed to vary in transparency. Public circulation zones are inserted between the bands. A passageway connects the three areas and courtyard address the acoustical needs of underground performance spaces and skylights penetrate the courtyard floor.