The diversity of panoramas is characteristic of Shaughnessy Village, a neighborhood located steps from downtown to the east and Westmount to the west. We strongly suggest you visit the Canadian Centre for Architecture (CCA) and its collection of activities and spaces.
An 1874 Building Classified as a Historical Site
The CCA is composed of the Shaughnessy House, an 1874 building classified as a historic site and a more modern 12 000 square meter area annexed in 1989. The centre provides resources (on an international scale) for research in the field of architecture. Based on the belief that the discipline is of public interest, the CCA is also a museum.
Five to Six Temporary Exhibitions per Year
Each year you’ll find five or six temporary exhibitions in both the CCA galleries, which are open from Wednesday to Sunday. They are available for free at all times during office hours for students and after 5:30pm on Thursdays for the general public. The exhibitions aim to establish links between architectural thinking and practice, the history of ideas, and changing social and cultural conditions.
Educational Programs and Events on Thursdays
Thursday is a special day at the CCA. In addition to offering free access for all its exhibitions, the centre offers events and educational programs. We are talking about lectures, screenings and workshops (adult or family) where artists and international architects are invited exclusively for the occasion!
For example, on November 13th, the CCA launched the 20th Interuniversity Group. The event is a competition involving eight Canadian universities. The theme this year was inviting students and young designers to reimagine how Montreal’s Ste. Helene and Notre-Dame Islands might look in the future. Keep in mind that the islands hosted Expo 67, thus propelling the city into modernity. Speakers were also there to talk about the island projects. The event was a big success and closed out with a celebratory cocktail!
A Bookstore, Study Areas and a Garden!
The wonderful and friendly bookstore offers architecture-related books, but also urban planning, photography and design. You’ll also find original CCA issues relating to previous exhibitions as well as several books and games for kids.
A well-kept secret is the CCA Shaughnessy House, which, when not hosting a 5@7 or reception is open free to the public. Wi-Fi is available and you’ll find tables and chairs overlooking the gardens. The ideal place to work or study! Don’t tell the whole neighborhood, it’s first and foremost for S sur le Square, assures Isabelle Huiban, head of press relations.
Finally, the CCA also includes the CCA gardens. This genuine outdoor museum was designed by Montreal artist-architect Melvin Charney in a representation of the space affected by the highway construction of the late twentieth century. In addition to offering gripping views and a pleasant setting for walkers and joggers, there are also activities. For example, there are outdoor screenings, jazz band performances, sports activities, a fitness corner and much more!
The CCA: almost an extension of your home? Why not!
