The cafeteria — Le Marie-Victorin, an amazing transformation

Cégep Marie-Victorin is a public institution located in the north-east of Montreal where we offer a multitude of diversified programs, some of which stem from the artistic field (graphic design, interior design, fashion design and visual arts). Interior design and art occupy an important place at Cégep Marie-Victorin, because in addition to teaching these disciplines, since 2009, the establishment has managed to carry out the major undertaking of redeveloping its common areas and a few departments, in collaboration with members of the departments of interior design, graphic design and visual arts, to create a stimulating living space and an environment conducive to educational success. A bold initiative that highlights the talent of the Cégep community and reflects an institutional culture characterized by innovation, creativity and a human approach.

During the summer of 2019, a major renovation and design project was carried out in Cégep Marie-Victorin’s cafeteria.

The cafeteria — Le Marie-Victorin, an amazing transformation

In this structure, built in 1965, an impressive ceiling covers the space of the cafeteria. The unique shape of the old chapel, which became a cafeteria in 1981, inspired innovative lighting. It deftly emphasizes the architectural angles of the time. Retaining this architecture while infusing it with the style of the 2020s was the challenge.

The café and service area fuse this singular shape. The ceiling and triangular windows set the tone for a radiant combination of geometry and lights. A roundabout flow creates a clear dialogue between contours and lighting. The perimeter is surrounded by round tables in perfect harmony with the ceiling and counters, and textured glass walls integrate into this space. The dynamics of the layout orchestrate a symbiosis with the outside world. Seats of varying heights and benches amid vegetation give coziness in an organic atmosphere, which is revealed thanks to the visuals and the floral structure of the central lighting.

The visual planning plays fully to the particular shape of the building. The flooring is a contemplation of concentric circles with shades of gray. The skillful marriage of surfaces, shapes and lights manages to make the unique geometry of the cafeteria warm. A shift thus emerges from the ethereal space of this old chapel.

Relevant floral motifs pay tribute to Brother Marie-Victorin, a great botanist who gave his name to the Cégep. These surfaces are decorated with flowers which hide several acoustic panels. In the food court, a quartz counter traces its path through ceramic and metal.

This airy and organic set generates an excellent environment for exchange and communication. The student population benefits from a place to meet and talk.

The name of the cafeteria and former chapel, Marie-Victorin, has been carefully chosen to give a contemporary dimension to this place built in 1965. Simple and modern, a clean logo made of the letters MV is displayed in white on black. It evokes the geometry of the place and emphasizes its unifying form.

A unifying approach

The perfect combination of the skills of the interior and graphic design experts allows these projects to be carried out in harmony with the values of Cégep Marie-Victorin. Being also employed by Cégep Marie-Victorin, the designers’ involvement and commitment is palpable throughout the projects, a feeling of pride and belonging that transcends as well in all of the achievements.

Project founder: Sylvain Mandeville, Executive Director of Cégep Marie-Victorin

Main designer of the project presented in this folder: Louise Gélinas, interior designer at Cégep Marie-Victorin.