Originally designed by Quebecois architects Rogers D’Astous and Jean-Paul Pothier in 1967, Château Champlain is now an icon of Montreal’s modern heritage. The Sid Lee Architecture studio has transformed this iconic building, which overlooks the city and stands 38 storeys high – it was once the tallest building in Canada –, and today it continues to catch the eye with its half-moon windows and neo-Romantic arches at Windsor station. The restoration project represents the first major renovation of the building since its construction. It stands in the heart of the city and now reveals a design that enhances the majestic cityscape offered by its panoramic views. With its elegant and timeless style, the new Château Champlain is among Canada’s leading hotels. The entire building is surrounded by the gardens of Place du Canada, Dorchester Square, Old Port and Mont-Royal. Its location is exceptional, as it is right in the city. And the team from Sid Lee Architecture strove to give it an original conceptual approach, highlighting the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Through the use of organic shapes, barely-saturated colours and the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, the contrast between the cold climate particular to the region and the warm hospitality of the hotel is perceptible, and well embodied in the spatial experience of the location. The interiors include many references to the Saint Lawrence river, as well as the surrounding gardens.This is a refuge in the heart of the city, whose comfortable and harmonious atmosphere encourages you to take in the city throughout the year. As soon as you enter the hotel, you see porcelain and white stone; in the light fixtures and furniture, the gilded details recall bare branches, but with cosy touches; and the reception counter is a work of art by itself, by Sid Lee, in collaboration with MASSIVart and made by the artist Pascale Girardin. The 600-plus rooms have been redesigned with an emphasis on windows, using soft shapes and complementary colours. Much of the furniture, carpets and wall coverings have been produced by local companies. In the rooms, the light, neutral colour palette enhances their beauty and emphasise the views on offer, whether in the rooms that face Mont-Royal, the river, or the city centre. Throughout the hotel, 59 works of art by various artists are on display, including sculptures, prints, illustrations, photographs or tapestries, all inspired by the theme of a winter garden. This place is just perfect for a restful and memorable experience.
