A thoughtfully designed community that celebrates local heritage, and creates greener public spaces steps from Parc Jacques-Cartier.
The Project.
The project addresses a pressing need in the context of the housing crisis. It proposes to replace the existing built environment with three residential towers set on a shared base accommodating commercial uses along Laurier Street. Two additional volumes, of lower height and intentionally separated from the main ensemble, are dedicated to social housing.
The project demonstrates a strong sensitivity to its urban and landscape context. It seeks to integrate in a respectful and thoughtful manner within its immediate surroundings, drawing on local characteristics.
Particular attention is given to the enhancement of vernacular heritage. Materials, typologies, and existing building scales informed the architectural design, fostering continuity with the site’s built history while meeting contemporary requirements. As such, three “Allumette” houses identified as having high heritage value are preserved on the site.
950+ new homes
50+ social housing homes
2 public gardens
A more active, welcoming rue Laurier with commercial and community spaces.
3 heritage “Allumette” homes preserved, integrated into project
Key Considerations.
Heritage
The redevelopment project for Îlot Laurier incorporates a strong heritage sensitivity by relying on a harmonious transition of scale with the existing built fabric.
In particular, the design provides for a set-back building typology at the rear of the site that respects and highlights the iconic “allumette” houses on Notre-Dame-de-l’Île Street.
Residential
The upcoming revision of the PPU for downtown Gatineau represents a strategic opportunity to provide the area formed by Laurier, Notre-Dame-de-l’Île, Verdun, and Saint-Étienne streets with a renewed regulatory framework, consistent with the broader vision of residential intensification. This area, already identified as a high-density transformation hub, requires clear and contemporary guidelines to support the harmonious integration of high-rise buildings, encourage a mix of uses, and enhance heritage and landscape components, while also meeting municipal objectives for the creation of complete and eco-responsible living environments.
Mobility
The project promotes sustainable mobility by extending the existing green network and integrating pedestrian connections through the site. In doing so, it improves connectivity between Laurier Street, Jacques-Cartier Park, and the surrounding residential neighbourhoods.
Green Space
The project emphasizes significant greening by freeing up ground-level space through increased building height, allowing for the creation of landscaped gardens and courtyards. This approach strengthens the presence of nature in the urban environment.
The project site is located in downtown Hull, Gatineau, and encompasses the block bounded by Laurier Street, Verdun Street, Notre-Dame-de-l’Île Street, and Saint-Étienne Street.
The Location.
Meet the Project Team.
Oktodev is rethinking how communities grow by creating places that are thoughtful, resilient, and rooted in their surroundings. Guided by an experienced team and a careful, flexible approach, the company works on projects across Canada, with a strong focus on Quebec. By contributing to a range of housing and employment spaces, including multi-residential, student housing, and light industrial uses, Oktodev helps support complete, vibrant neighborhoods that can adapt and thrive over time.
Theia Partners is a real estate and renewable energy development company driven by impact. Its mission is to create positive, measurable change in the built environment by strengthening communities, reducing carbon footprint, and delivering high quality places to live. Theia takes a practical, responsible approach, including revitalizing complex sites and implementing sustainable solutions that directly benefit people and neighbourhoods.
ACDF is a vibrant architectural and urban design practice that puts people and places at the heart of every project. Rooted in creativity, collaboration, and a deep respect for the communities it serves, the firm designs buildings and public spaces that enhance everyday life, celebrate local culture, and respond thoughtfully to their context. With a flexible team that brings together curiosity and experience, ACDF works on a wide range of projects, from community hubs and cultural centres to housing and workplace environments, all with an eye toward sustainability, connection, and lasting quality.
News & Updates.
Please check back here for full details, documentation, and downloads related to the project and our public consultation process.
Community Feedback.
We believe strong projects come from listening and improving. If you have questions or comments, we would love to hear from you.