Discovery Centre for the Mont-Tremblant National Park

Smith Vigeant Architects | 7. October 2014

Photo: Stéphane Brugger (All photographs courtesy of v2com)

Located in the Mont-Tremblant National Park, the Discovery Centre offers a stunning view of Lake Monroe and its surrounding hills and mountains.

The building consists of three distinct sections: an amphitheatre, a space for service facilities, and a discovery zone. This building is formed by a continuous band of rustic wood that unfolds into walls, a roof and a floor sheltered by a large canopy.

Entry. Photo: Stéphane Brugger

Given its pristine location in the heart of nature, the use of wood as the primary material facilitated the harmonious insertion of the building into the unspoiled setting. To achieve this, a wide variety of wood species were used on both the exterior and interior, reinterpreting the site’s richness in textures and colours, while giving the building durability and résistance.

Reflected landscape. Photo: Stéphane Brugger

The Discovery Centre was designed around the site’s natural and climatic features and in respect to bioclimatic principles. The development of the project was founded on the assiduous integration of the building into the site as well as its sensitivity to the surrounding area.