Architecture competition: Beaconsfield’s future cultural centre
An exceptional site, an inspiring vision, bold ideas
To envision the future cultural centre of Beaconsfield, the City launched an architecture competition. Thirty-two teams submitted their proposals. Four finalists were selected to develop more detailed concepts, tailored to our community and this extraordinary Lake Saint-Louis waterfront site.
These proposals, crafted by some of the most renowned firms in Canada and Europe, were inspired by our collective vision (developed with you — – see the Reimagining SPACE process), and by the natural beauty of Centennial Park.
The finalists didn’t just design buildings, they envisioned gathering places to strengthen our community life, build intergenerational connections, and create harmony between architecture and nature.
In the footsteps of Centennial Park and Villa
This concept draws inspiration from the villa typology, with clean contemporary lines and bright interior courtyards. Organized around a central axis, the design promotes inclusive, intuitive movement and a strong connection to the landscape. A floating roof adds to the calm, modern aesthetic.
Architecture rooted in the landscape
Team: In Situ + DMA
This one-level concept unfolds in a series of branches around semi-open courtyards, prioritizing natural light, accessibility and comfort. A generous overhanging roof, open views of the lake and seamless transitions between indoors and outdoors enhance the user experience.
The bow – weaving community
Team: Saunders + Bourgeois Lechasseur
This sculptural, two-level design follows the site’s natural slope and opens gracefully toward Lake Saint-Louis. Inside, warm and inviting spaces are connected by a central promenade designed to foster encounters and discoveries. A bold, grounded architecture deeply inspired by place.
The winning concept: rooted, fluid and human
Each finalist brought something remarkable. But one concept stood out, for its bold clarity, harmonious relationship with the site, and deeply human, future-forward vision.
Cultural preface – a reimagined landscape, designed by Lemay, was selected as the winning project. Its rooftop lookout, flowing architecture and welcoming heart perfectly capture the spirit of the initiative: to create a vibrant, accessible and community-rooted place where culture, nature and people come together.
