HOPe

In hibernation for 6 months of the year, Montreal’s public space loses its attractiveness and functionality. The snow, extreme cold and wind accentuate the phenomenon of social isolation. Summer parks are deserted. In light of these observations, Baptiste designed a resilient green space, adapted to the summer heat and winter frosts.

As a result, Montrealers can enjoy urban parks year-round. A mound offers a natural place to enjoy snow sports in the winter and an open-air theater in the summer. A community bar reinforces social cohesion, offering sports activities, meetings and workshops throughout the year. A concept that can be used in any northern city, HOPe brings a spark of hope to long cold winters.

"Baptiste designed Hope, a new kind of park. It is a resilient design that makes full use of the snow with outdoor winter activities. It is located in one of the busiest parks in the heart of Montreal: Lafontaine Park. During his research and analysis phase, Baptiste found that despite the northern identity of the Quebec metropolis, Montrealers did not particularly appreciate snow. Often seen as something to be endured, each winter they dread the return of the implacable white mantle . While parks are a must-see for a successful summer, they tend to be forgotten about or even actively avoided during the winter. In this environment, Baptiste found the ideal setting to create a space that could be adapted to the 4 seasons. The project is articulated around a mound. This architectural element brings together several functions with different uses depending on the season. He imagined an inviting space with well thought out and complementary uses that respect the adjacent road layouts."

Julie Le Ster - Le Studio Montréal Course Leader