More than a year since our last update, and progress at the site of the jointly-backed, Government of Canada, Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM), and the City of Montreal project known as the Îlot Balmoral, is today nearing completion. Designed by Provencher Roy within the Quartiers des Spectacles, the striking, crystalline structure has added a real sense of dynamism to Montreal's entertainment district. 

Îlot Balmoral, crystalline cladding well underway, image by Forum contributor skahhigh

At 13 storeys, Îlot Balmoral stands as one of the highest structures in the immediate vicinity, allowing passersby a clear glimpse of the structure's crystalline form. To eventually be flanked by bold red inner folds, the central glass portion of the structure, viewed above and below, will soon become the main entrance. 

A rendering of Îlot Balmoral, image via Provencher Roy

Described in official documents as an "oblique fault line," the irregular structural feature brings a great deal of visual interest to the structure, its red accents only serving to amplify the overall effect of the addition. Scheduled for completion by summer 2018, Îlot Balmoral's incoming tenants will soon move into their new headquarters, including the National Film Board (NFB), which will be soon be able to dazzle public audiences with its giant video screen feature that will be built right into the wall of the structure.

Îlot Balmoral, urban context view, image by Forum contributor skahhigh

Once complete, the 280,000 square-foot structure will include a green roof and a high-efficiency glass exterior, which when combined will help the project obtain a LEED NC Gold environmental rating.

SkyriseCities will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.