Montréal is characterized by a rich variety of built environments. The quality of their architectural and urban characteristics, such as building style and shape, building siting and materials, must be preserved and enhanced. Some buildings and settings also have heritage value (see Objective 15).

However, the harmony of the built environment can be undermined by vacant or underused land. Some areas are attracting a growing number of medium- and large-sized stores whose design raises issues of architectural and urban integration. The design and development of these sites must promote higher-quality architecture and ensure that new buildings reinforce the cohesiveness of their surroundings.

Architectural quality also guarantees the human scale of the City, since the character of streets and other public spaces is closely tied to the buildings that frame them. Thus architectural quality must be achieved through buildings whose style, scale and relationship with the street contribute to the comfort of pedestrians and the atmosphere of public spaces.

Finally, the notion of architectural quality must also extend to techniques for constructing, operating and maintaining innovative buildings that are healthier for their users and more respectful of the environment.

The Plan sets forth one action relative to existing and planned transportation networks:

12.1

Promote quality architecture that is ecologically sound and respectful of Montréal’s character See this action