Timber, Light and Well-being: A Sustainable Office Transformation in Montreal

Jodoin Lamarre Pratte Architectes has transformed its Montreal offices into a model of sustainable, human-centred workplace design. The renovation took place in three phases, adding a 516m² timber extension, refurbishing the existing industrial building, and redesigning the ground floor. The result is a bright, flexible workspace that promotes well-being, collaboration, and low-carbon design.

Building with Wood and Heritage

The project showcases the firm’s expertise in modern timber architecture and its commitment to Quebec’s Charte du bois (Wood Charter). The design team developed a hybrid structure of engineered wood, steel, and concrete, achieving the same cost as a conventional concrete build. As a result, the project qualified for the province’s Programme de vitrine technologique for wood innovation.

From the street, a glass façade reveals the wooden structure inside. This transparency celebrates craftsmanship and connects the building to the surrounding neighbourhood. At night, the extension glows like a lantern, symbolising creativity and openness.

Material Warmth and Acoustic Comfort

Wood plays a central role both structurally and visually. The grooved wooden ceiling improves sound absorption while creating a rhythmic, geometric pattern that diffuses natural light. Its design echoes the firm’s identity and reflects the grid used in the timber expansion.

Elsewhere, the architects chose sustainable materials to minimise carbon emissions. Polished structural concrete eliminates the need for additional coatings. Light-coloured finishes enhance daylight reflection, while exposed ceilings make maintenance easier and reduce waste.

A Workplace for Collaboration and Well-being

The redesigned interior encourages teamwork and creativity. It features glass-walled meeting rooms, a rooftop terrace made of red cedar, and a materials library for research and prototyping. Red cedar was selected for its strength, natural resistance to mould, and low maintenance. It also weathers beautifully over time, making it both durable and renewable.

Moreover, art is integrated throughout the workspace. The firm acquired pieces by local artists and held a digital art competition for employees. These creative elements enrich the environment and promote a sense of community.

Low-Carbon and Biophilic Strategies

Sustainability guided every design decision. The building uses high-performance mechanical systems, LED lighting with daylight sensors, and white-granule roofing to reflect heat. Water retention systems on the roof reduce stormwater impact.

In addition, indoor plants and natural materials create a calm, biophilic atmosphere that supports mental health and comfort. Abundant daylight and open spaces further enhance the connection to nature.

By combining renewable materials, heritage sensitivity, and innovation, Jodoin Lamarre Pratte Architectes has created a workplace that unites sustainability, creativity, and human well-being.

Source: Jodoin Lamarre Pratte Architectes via V2com
Photos: Nanne Springer / Adrien Williams