ACDF Architecture designed the T-A-St-Germain Library, located in downtown Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec. Unlike traditional libraries, the new library is designed as a community hub and has key functions, including 2 multi-purpose rooms, an exhibition area, a co-working space, multimedia creation studios (FabLab), a computer lab, a cafe, and a terrace.
The City of Saint-Hyacinthe has acquired a strategic site in the downtown core, bordering the Yamaska River and the Barsalou Bridge, to stem the exodus of merchants and residents from the historic downtown area.
The project serves as the starting point for a major urban development project dedicated to the enhancement of the Yamaska River. The decision was therefore made to position the new library at the heart of the arts and culture section of the new 1.5-mile pedestrian and bicycle river corridor.
ACDF President, Maxime-Alexis Frappier
ACDF was initially tasked with determining whether an old vacant office building should be demolished or transformed into a new cultural project. Despite challenges like low floor clearance, accessibility issues, uninspiring aesthetics, and a large footprint, ACDF demonstrated the viability of retaining the existing building. This decision was made in line with the belief that architects should strive to keep buildings healthy for the environment.
“The structure was sound, the envelope was still effective, and the planted forecourts were mature and of fine quality, which nullified the justification for demolition,” says Frappier. “We wanted to embrace the challenge of designing an emblematic project capable of acting as a cultural beacon at the northern end of downtown Saint-Hyacinthe, while preserving as much of the existing building’s components as possible, thus reducing the carbon impact associated with the realization of such an infrastructure.”
Architectural Integration and Expansion
The recommended approach adopts a sustainable architecture vision by rehabilitating a modest 1987 postmodern building in the heart of Saint-Hyacinthe’s historic district. ACDF proposed a dual mindset approach combining pragmatism and creativity.
Clad in a whitish glass skin, the extension stands out subtly from the existing building, creating a coherent whole. The design integrates well with the existing structure and addresses environmental challenges responsibly.
ACDF proposed retaining the existing building and adding an extension to complement its architectural qualities. The extension provides light-filled spaces with views of the Yamaska River, an outdoor terrace, and unique environments compared to the existing building.
“The low percentage of fenestration in the existing building allows us to maintain a very interesting ratio of total openings from a thermal point of view, despite the generous fenestration of the spaces in the extension,” emphasizes Maxime-Alexis Frappier. “The variety of ambiences provided by this bipartite composition contributes greatly to the user experience.”
The expansion concept of T-A-St-Germain Library features a volumetric structure with a majestic hallway linking entrances and serving various purposes. The ground floor accommodates multi-purpose rooms accessible from the hallway, and the design allows for outdoor spaces and areas dedicated to adult collections on the upper level.
The existing building and the extension create a variety of spaces and atmospheres to suit all tastes. Each floor revolves around a core of services and shelving, surrounded by reading and work spaces. The relaxation areas are positioned near the existing windows, with more focused views and subdued lighting for concentration. The low ceiling height and beams of the existing building delimit the reading and working areas, creating a subdued and human-scale environment. The enlarged space is bathed in light and immersed in nature, with lower shelving for enjoying the landscape. This duality accentuates the contrast of perspectives for users, optimizing space use, providing flexibility and natural spatial fluidity.
“We advocate a design approach that focuses on a more optimal mix of resources to create meaningful architecture, and to create places that structure and contribute to their communities,” concludes Maxime-Alexis Frappier. “We hope that the responsible and frugal approach employed in this expansion and transformation project can serve to raise awareness of the merits of conserving our built heritage and exercising restraint in the means we employ to design exceptional places.”
Project Info
Project name: Bibliothèque T-A-ST-Germain
Project location: Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
Client: Ville de Sainte Hyacinthe
Architects: ACDF Architecture
Team: Maxime Alexis Frappier, architect; Christelle Montreuil Jean-Pois, architect; Laurence Lebeux, architect; Denis Lavigne, technician; Martin Palardy, architect; Pierre Louis Beneche, technician; Michel Thompson, senior technician; Ghislain Noel, senior technician
Structural, civil, mechanical and electrical engineering: CIMA
Landscape architecture: BC2
Photography: Adrien Williams
