Chalet Parc Decelles

The expansion and redevelopment of the Decelles park chalet and upgrading of the outdoor swimming pool, carried out by Réal Paul Architecte has brought the site back to life, while respecting and enhancing its original architecture.

Located near the Côte-Vertu and Du Collège metro stations in Montreal, Decelles Park, with its 14,028 m², boasts a number of sports facilities, including a chalet built in 1964 by architect Maurice Major. 

With its sober, functional design, the chalet's architecture already reflected its function as a park pavilion, integrating open, luminous spaces that had undergone few modifications, with the exception of a roof refurbishment in 1996. This modernization project has maintained this approach while updating the facilities to meet contemporary needs.

The architectural intervention involved expanding the chalet by 1,720 sq. ft. while redeveloping 5,500 sq. ft. of the existing space, with particular attention paid to visual and material continuity. New functionalities, such as modernized checkrooms and accessible washrooms, were integrated in harmony with the original design. The chalet retains its open spaces, particularly in the lifeguard area, and maximizes natural light thanks to the original high windows, a key element of the initial architecture.

The reorganization of the interior spaces sought to optimize circulation and user comfort, while creating a welcoming, bright entrance to the skaters' room. The building's architecture retains the functional logic of the period, while integrating contemporary elements of comfort and accessibility.

The architectural approach of the project aimed to preserve the essence of the original building rather than demolishing it, a strategy aligned with the City of Montreal's priorities regarding heritage preservation and sustainable development. This focus on sustainability enabled the project to achieve LEED Silver certification. 

New additions, such as the chlorine and acid storage for the pool, as well as the new sand filtration system, were discreetly integrated into the expansion, thus maintaining the site's harmony. The design of the pavilion, with its clean lines and generous openings, remains at the heart of the user experience, allowing visitors to enjoy a functional and aesthetically coherent environment that aligns with the park's and building's history.