Begun in 2023, the restoration of the Marie-Victorin Building has taken more than two years. The building is home to, among others, Jardin botanique and Espace pour la vie teams and management. The major renovation work done ensures the integrity of the original Art Deco architecture.
At this iconic Jardin botanique location, the premises are used by partners like the Institut de recherche en biologie végétale (IRBV) and Friends of the Montréal Botanical Garden. Other spaces are intended for the public: the Henry Teuscher Auditorium, the Jardin botanique library, the gift shop and group reception areas.
Dating from the 1930s, the Marie-Victorin Building is the work of architect Lucien Kéroack, a distant cousin of Brother Marie-Victorin. Like many hospitals and religious structures, it is H-shaped to make the most of natural lighting.
The necessary renovation of a heritage building
Audits carried out by Ville de Montréal underscored the urgency of undertaking this work, which involved restoring the building’s envelope, roof and basement to good condition. And given that the Jardin botanique sits on clay soil, 1,200 piles were installed to strengthen the building’s foundations.
To ensure effective rainwater management, gardens have been laid out in the inner courtyards. The eastern courtyard will be used by day-camp children and staff, while the western one, near the restaurant, will offer a second terrace that allows for the installation of removable tables.