Pavillons Lassonde

Hidden on the slopes of Mount Royal, the Pavillons Lassonde at Polytechnique Montréal might surprise you. These aren’t your typical university buildings. The Pavillons Lassonde were inaugurated in 2005. They were a gift from alumni Pierre Lassonde and his wife, Claudette MacKay-Lassonde. Pierre Lassonde led Newmont Mining, a giant in the gold production world. Claudette, who sadly passed away in 2000, had a vibrant career in energy and telecommunications. She also championed engineering as a career path. Both shared a deep commitment to sustainability. This philosophy is woven into the very fabric of the Pavillons Lassonde. These buildings stand as the first “sustainable buildings” for educational purposes in Quebec. Their striking design incorporates vibrant colors. Red symbolizes magma, orange represents the Earth’s crust, green reflects the foliage, and blue mirrors the sky. Inside, a unique feature awaits. A retired MR-63 metro car hangs suspended in the atrium, a testament to innovative engineering and a nod to Montreal’s iconic transit system. The Pavillons Lassonde hold a LEED-NC 2.0 Gold certification, boasting an impressive 46 points. They operate with around 60% greater energy efficiency than federal standards. Their potable water consumption is a staggering 92% less than conventional buildings. The green roof isn’t just for show. It acts as insulation and a natural air purifier. Rainwater is harvested for non-potable uses. The main building’s chimneys even contribute, providing two-thirds of the heating needs. Motion detectors regulate lighting and temperature, further minimizing energy waste. Inside, low-pollutant materials create a healthier environment. Interestingly, the original plans called for two identical Lassonde pavilions. A scale model in the main Polytechnique building reveals this intriguing detail. Theories abound about the missing twin. Some say campus development plans shifted. Others whisper of funding shortages. A popular tale suggests a compromise between the administration and conservationists concerned about Mount Royal’s preservation. This version claims 100 trees were planted on campus to offset the construction impact, all in the same hole. The mystery remains. What stands today as the singular Pavillons Lassonde is a testament to sustainable design and a symbol of the Lassondes’ lasting legacy.