The Robert-Bélanger House
and the site’s natural environment
Client : Borough of St-Laurent
Location : St. Laurent, Montreal
Year of project completion : 2024
Team : DFS + WAA architecture de paysage
Awards : Grand prix de l’Opération patrimoine Montréal 2023, category – Revitalization
LEED® certification : Silver
Photos : All photos – DFS, except photos 11 and 12, courtesy of WAA and Millemot Photography
The Robert-Bélanger House, built between 1803 and 1806 on Chemin du Bois-Franc, is a rare witness to Saint-Laurent’s agricultural history. As the last remaining stone farmhouse of the former Côte Saint-Louis, it was designated a historic monument in 2009. Acquired by the City of Montreal in 2010, the house became the focus of a restoration project aimed at preserving its heritage and ecological value.
The 5,300 m² site retains traces of its agricultural past and offers strong potential for natural connectivity with the Bertrand Creek green corridor. The work included a complete restoration of the severely deteriorated building, carried out in compliance with heritage and environmental standards. The ground floor now hosts community activities, while the upper floor contains administrative offices.
The project, which earned LEED Silver certification, successfully combined sustainability with heritage preservation. This revitalization of the site supports urban biodiversity, and creates a vibrant, welcoming space for the community.
From a state of disrepair to a heritage gem. This farmhouse has been restored to its former glory thanks to a restoration that respects its original character, highlighting the authenticity of its materials and the finesse of its vernacular architecture.
A window into the past. The multiple layers of paint and wallpaper bear witness to the eras that have shaped this farmhouse, and their display on a section of wall now allows these transformations to be seen at a glance.
The restored interior details reflect the care taken to highlight the original structure. Through each window, the gaze is anchored in the peaceful rhythm of the heritage site and its exterior design inspired by the rural landscape of the 19th century.
