Architecture49 is proud to unveil its latest project, the clubhouse for Golf Exécutif Montréal, located on Nuns’ Island, a green oasis in the St. Lawrence River facing downtown Montreal. The building, which boasts an impressive wooden framework, is designed to offer its users an exceptional experience. It includes sheltered driving-range tees, a bar in the centre of a spacious lounge, a full restaurant kitchen, state-of-the-art golf simulators, a pro shop, offices and mechanical spaces.

Initially engaged to design a sheltered area that would allow golfers to use the driving range in inclement weather, Architecture49 worked closely with the client to extend the program to the creation of a unique multi-functional building. In the clubhouse’s final form, the sheltered driving-range tees back onto the lounge and relaxation areas, creating a unique experience for golfers.

Function inspires form

The clubhouse’s architectural signature is a direct response to the nature of the project. The building’s curve, echoing the driving range, harmonizes with the setting while meeting the needs of golfers working on their game. The exceptional size of the wooden roof’s cantilevers, dictated by the need to provide adequate shelter from the elements, also led to the creation of a contemplative space for golfers. The plan’s precision is evident in the clubhouse’s ample windows and distinct arrangement of materials: zinc, wood and glass.

Fluid movement between zones

The building’s curvilinear layout is structured by traffic areas separating outdoor sporting activities and the clubhouse’s interior functions, which are arranged sequentially. The reception hall, on the west side, opens onto a sheltered outdoor space with views of downtown Montreal. Next is the first of two windowless service cores, with washrooms and two soundproofed rooms where members can work on their game using golf simulators. The adjacent lounge is a large open space featuring a variety of seating types arranged around a central bar. After that comes the hall, which cuts across the building to provide access to the driving range, which is near the pro shop and a service counter for the open kitchen. Lastly, a second windowless service core houses the kitchen, administrative offices and mechanical rooms.

Designed to make the spaces as flexible as possible, the clubhouse is a gathering place suitable for many kinds of activities and events, both during and outside golf season.

Ubiquitous wood

The roof’s span impresses by its size and the structural challenge it represents. The successful construction of the roof required precision design work to ensure a harmonious relationship between the structure’s exterior and interior proportions. The curves of both the roof and building, back and front, give the clubhouse a refined touch. The electro-mechanical elements are carefully integrated into the wooden structure, making them disappear and leaving the interior as minimalist as possible. Special care was taken to select VOC-free natural materials, hence the use of wood throughout the interior: walls and doors in maple paneling, walls in toasted wood, and furniture. Lastly, with the aim of showcasing local expertise and artisans, the architects made a point of selecting materials, suppliers and contractors from Montreal and elsewhere in Quebec.

Data Sheet

Official name of the project: Golf Exécutif Montréal Clubhouse

Location: Nun’s Island, Quebec, Canada

Client: Golf Exécutif Montréal

Budget: Confidential

Project end date: June 2018

Project size: 855 m² (9,200 ft²)

Roof size: 1,800 m² (19,375 ft²)

Architecture: Architecture49

Engineering: WSP

Main contractor: Quadrax & Associés

Wood Structure: Nordic Structures

Lighting (bar): Generique Design

Photographer: Stéphane Brügger

About the Montreal office of Architecture49

In 1955, six architects with strong personalities and a variety of backgrounds founded the firm of Affleck, Desbarats, Dimakopoulos, Lebensold, Michaud & Sise. For more than 30 years, starting in the 1970s, the firm operated as Arcop, an acronym for Architects in co-partnership. Throughout its long history, the firm has had a strong influence on architecture in Quebec and across Canada.

In 2014, six architecture studios joined forces and pooled their expertise and complementary talents to create a single Canada-wide firm, Architecture49. The new firm combines the experience and reputation of Arcop, AE Consultants, North 46, PBK, Smith Carter and WHW Architects.

With more than 50 architects and technologists, the Montreal office of Architecture49 stands out for its extensive experience in managing large-and small-scale projects and executing complex projects, particularly in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of buildings. Its architects are known for their ability to promote architectural expression based on an innovative and timeless language. 

The firm also has a significant number of new constructions to its credit and, as a generalist, is active in several sectors: public and cultural buildings, heritage buildings, shops, hotels and convention centres, sports facilities, etc. and offers services in architecture, urban design and interior design.