The Studio Montréal office
Premises dedicated to innovation in the heart of Montreal
The Studio Montréal is based in Montreal’s old planetarium, renovated in 2018 to become the new building for Centech, the startup accelerator of L’École de Technologie Supérieure (ETS). This transitional space won the prize for project of the year in the 2019 Grands Prix du Design.
The architects firm MSDL Architectes took up the challenge of introducing daylight into a place where previously darkness had reigned. Keen to preserve the distinctive features of this unusual venue, the building is organized around a central circular area which is the heart of the accelerator. A harmonious blend of wood and curved glass walls, the space inspires communication and creativity
Situated in the dynamic neighborhood of Griffintown, the Studio Montréal is just a few steps from ETS and its various buildings and university halls of residence, but also a stone’s throw from the main train station, subway and city center with the very lively Saint Catherine Street.
A space fit for innovation
Its proximity to ETS encourages the collaboration between design and technology. In addition, students from the Montreal Studio have access to certain facilities in l’École de Technologie Supérieure, such as the cafeteria, the sports center and the library. The Centech’s communal areas have been completely redesigned by students of L’Ecole de design in order to better serve the needs of the different people using the place. Thus, the building dedicated to startups was expanded in 2019 with a friendly cafeteria space. Also, an internal FabLab was created in 2021, available to students and entrepreneurs.
The Studio Montréal is lucky enough to have a dedicated room within this historic building of Montreal. The 60m2 room can accommodate around twenty students; its digital walls and glass sides make it the ideal place for creativity and collaborative working.