The Emergence of a Superstructure: Griffintown's Revival Inspired by Surviving Industrial Artifacts”

Abstract

Montréal’s Griffintown is a neighbourhood facing multiple transformations. Formerly a working class district gathered around warehouses and industries based along the Lachine Canal, it is home today to various avant-garde artistic groups. It is simultaneously under pressure of rampant condominium redevelopment. This thesis explores a means of reinforcing the identity of the area based on the re-use and celebration of existing, industrial artifacts. Existing infrastructure is examine as a potential host for related programs of renewable energy, recycling, waste treatment, and urban agriculture, thus Acting as a means to regenerate a public engagement with public utility processes. The rail viaduct in particular is explored as a means of incorporating both a new public utility as well as remaining an existing means of public transportation. The architecture of this new urban armature extends to engage with two buildings of great heritage and cultural value, both in need of being preserved and valorized before it is too late. These buildings have the potential to become urban anchors and community landmarks, particularly in conjunction with development of adjacent urban plazas and landscapes.