An architectural tour of Shaughnessy Village

Bordered by Atwater Avenue, Sherbrooke Street, Bishop Street and the Ville-Marie Expressway, Shaughnessy Village is a mix of residential buildings, shops, restaurants, and beautiful green parks. The neighbourhood’s historic buildings have become a testament to the socio-economic boom that took place downtown in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here’s an architectural tour to help you discover or rediscover the neighbourhood. It’ll give you a whole new perspective on Shaughnessy Village.

1. Le Forum de Montréal

There is no better way to start your journey than by visiting this hockey temple! Located at the corner of Atwater and Sainte-Catherine, the Montreal Forum was built in 1924 to house the Maroons, but the Montreal Canadiens moved in shortly thereafter, in 1926. The Forum has become a world icon for professional hockey, thanks to the Canadiens’ many Stanley Cup victories. In addition to the many memorable sporting events that have taken place there, the Forum has also been the site of some of the world’s greatest concerts and artistic performances. At the end of the 20th century, the Canadiens moved to the Bell Centre. The Forum was then transformed into a large cinema complex with dozens of screens, shops, and cafés. This legendary venue is a must-see in Shaughnessy Village!

2313 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest 

2. Le temple maçonnique de Montréal

Designed by architect John Smith Archibald, this building at the corner of Saint-Marc and Sherbrooke streets was built to honour Canadian Masons who perished in the First World War (1914-1918). This cubic construction combines a foundation that’s integrated with the temple entrance, a floor filled with large windowless surfaces decorated with columns, and a facade that bears an imposing gable. It is a truly moving way to remember the sacrifices made by our Canadian soldiers.

1850 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest

3. École des métiers et de la restauration du tourisme de Montréal

This third building, erected in 1888, is one of the few surviving 19th-century schools. The building, characterized by its neoclassical and Victorian influences, was once the home of the Victoria School (1914), which served the local rural community at the time. The building was restored in the early 2010s to house the École des métiers de la restauration et du tourisme de Montréal. The facades, the roofs of the three pavilions, and the interiors were all totally or partially restored to respect the memory of the site, thus creating an environment that’s open to the community and perfect for studying or lounging. When you visit this place, you will be amazed by this successful heritage restoration!

1822 Boulevard De Maisonneuve Ouest

4. Les maisons jumelées William D.-Stroud

Located in a residential area, this group of properties consists of six six-storey semi-detached houses. These semi-detached houses, which appeared with the arrival of middle-class families in the neighbourhood, are defined by their alternating entrance gates. The repetitive effect of the architectural elements, the mansards and the exterior covering in sedimentary rock bring everything together. This heritage building is undoubtedly part of this downtown area’s architectural charm.

1419-1441, Rue Pierce

5. Le Faubourg Sainte-Catherine

The Faubourg Sainte-Catherine is the perfect place to recharge your batteries before your last visit. Here, you’ll find about 10 good, affordable restaurants and an interesting selection of shops. Few people know the Faubourg’s architectural history, however. Built in 1928 by a shoe company, the building was originally used as a head office and manufacturing plant. Built in the Art Deco style, its solid reinforced concrete structure catches the eye. The various restorations have not taken away any of the charm of its reddish brick facade, which is typical of the industrial architecture of the time.

1616 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

6. La maison mère des Sœurs-Grises-de-Montréal

To conclude, we suggest that you visit this convent, which was built in several stages, starting in 1869. Today, this group of grey stone buildings forms an “H” plan which includes the mother house, which in turn includes the chapel and the annexes. In the centre of the main facade, you will see the Invention-de-la-Sainte-Croix Chapel (1874-1878), whose eye-catching neo-Romanesque traits evoke a Latin cross. You can even stroll through the alleys lined with large trees, rock gardens and flower beds. It’s a great way to end your architectural tour of Shaughnessy Village.

1190 Rue Guy

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